Ocean Import Operator

Ocean Freight Import Operator

Location: Birmingham
Salary: £28,000 – £30,000 per annum, depending on experience
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm
Holiday: 20 days annual leave + bank holidays

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Ocean Freight Import Operator to join a growing logistics business based in Birmingham.

This is a varied role for someone who understands the full import process and enjoys taking ownership of shipments from start to finish. Alongside the operational side, you’ll have a strong focus on customer service, cost control and commercial performance.

The Role

You will be responsible for managing ocean import shipments from arrival through to final delivery, working closely with customers, overseas agents, shipping lines, hauliers and other logistics partners.

The role will include:

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Managing end-to-end ocean import shipments, including FCL and LCL

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Liaising with overseas agents regarding pre-alerts, documentation and shipment updates

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Coordinating customs clearance, delivery and final-mile logistics

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Working closely with shipping lines, hauliers and warehouses

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Managing delays, issues and service disruptions proactively

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Maintaining accurate shipment records and job costing

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Checking supplier invoices and ensuring agreed buy rates are maintained

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Raising accurate customer invoices and monitoring margins

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Challenging supplier costs where appropriate

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Identifying opportunities to add value and upsell additional services

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Acting as a key point of contact for customers

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Providing regular and proactive communication throughout the shipment process

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Building strong customer relationships and supporting client retention

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Resolving queries and issues in a professional and solutions-focused way

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Ensuring compliance with UK import and customs requirements

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Managing shipping documentation including bills of lading, invoices and declarations

About You

To be considered for this position, you will need:

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A minimum of 3 years' experience in Ocean Freight Import operations

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Strong understanding of both FCL and LCL processes

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Experience managing shipments from start to finish

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Good knowledge of shipping documentation and import procedures

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Strong commercial awareness, particularly around costs and margins

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Good IT and system skills

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Excellent attention to detail

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The ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities in a busy environment

Knowledge of customs clearance and CS import procedures would be advantageous but is not essential.

What’s On Offer

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Salary of £28,000 – £30,000, depending on experience

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Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm

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30-minute lunch break

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20 days annual leave + bank holidays

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Opportunity to join a growing logistics business

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Varied role combining operational, commercial and customer-facing responsibilities

If you’re an experienced Ocean Import Operator looking for your next opportunity in Birmingham, we’d love to hear from you.

Please note that only candidates with a minimum of 3 years’ Ocean Import experience will be considered
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed