Ocean Freight Specialist

We are on the lookout for a dynamic and driven individual to join our team as an Ocean Freight Specialist. As a dynamic member in our team, you will take charge of coordinating and managing the seamless international movement of goods, handling both import and export shipments by ocean. Collaborating closely with clients, carriers, and key stakeholders, you will ensure the efficient and timely delivery of cargo. Your role will also involve handling freight quotation, pricing, and negotiation.

**Responsibilities**
- Managing ocean freight shipments, including imports and exports.
- Handle freight quotation, pricing, and negotiation, ensuring competitive rates while maintaining profitability for the company.
- Provide exceptional customer service and support, addressing customer inquiries, concerns, and providing timely and accurate information.
- Communicate with different departments internally to gather the necessary information for shipping arrangements.
- Prepare and review shipping documentation, including bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and customs declarations.
- Coordinating with carriers, and shipping lines to arrange bookings and secure cargo space.
- Ensure compliance with local and international regulations governing the transportation of goods, including customs, import/export laws, and hazardous materials regulations.
- Track and monitor shipments to ensure timely delivery and resolve any issues or delays that may arise.
- Coordinate with carriers to arrange pickup and delivery schedules, ensuring that all parties involved are informed of any changes or updates.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure seamless integration of freight operations within the FreePL platform.
- Maintain accurate records and documentation of all shipments, including tracking numbers, delivery confirmations, and any relevant documentation.
- Stay up to date with industry trends and regulations to ensure compliance and provide expert advice and recommendations to clients regarding shipping options, costs, and timelines.
- Collaborate with other team members to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Ensure the handling of hazardous materials or goods is in accordance with safety standards and Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs).
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with carriers, negotiating rates and service agreements to optimize cost efficiency and service quality.

**Qualifications & Work Experience**
- Bachelor's degree in logistics, business, or any relevant field.
- 2 years' work experience in a similar position.
- Experience in ocean freight is a must.
- Experience in both import/export is a plus, however, expertise in at least one is required.
- Strong understanding of ocean freight processes, including shipping documentation, carrier selection, routing, and customs clearance.
- Experience in freight quotation, pricing, and negotiation, with the ability to analyze customer requirements and calculate costs effectively.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy, ensuring all documentation is completed correctly.
- Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively communicate with clients, carriers, and other stakeholders.
- Proficient computer skills. Shipping software experience is a plus.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to anticipate and resolve shipment-related issues.
- In-depth knowledge of transportation, shipping, and import/export regulations as well as customs procedures.
- Customer centric, with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with carriers and suppliers.
- Fluency in English (both written and spoken) is required.