There is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic freight forwarder to join the Seafreight operations in Port Elizabeth. He/she will be responsible for the planning and execution of Seafreight shipments, excellent customer service, managing of files from inception to closure, monitoring of vessel movement and the forwarding and clearing of cargo. Engagement with the insurance department as well as all relevant statutory bodies will be expected.
Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
• Contacting Origin Office within 24 hours to contact shipper.
• Receiving indent from the Client or Origin Office.
• Confirming readiness date of cargo with Origin, after contact is made with the shipper.
• Arranging sailing around readiness date or required date by Client as per the Client’s authorisation.
• Sending booking confirmation to Consignee.
• Ensuring that Origin has provided a House Bill of Lading number in order for the indent to be complete.
• Following up with the Client or Origin office for the following documentation: Commercial invoice, Packing list, Bill of Lading, House Bill of Lading and Certificates required e.g. certificate of origin, permits etc.
• Updating status reports and sending them to the Client.
• Requesting documents from the Client or Origin if not available on E-file.
• Obtaining original Bill of Lading and update status 1710
• Completing the customer specific data quality task and performing final quality checks.
• Ensuring that insurance is set up with Nacora for Clients that require insurance.
• Updating customer profiles when required.
• Registering company’s correct credit check values.
• Accepting or rejecting company updates that appear on the EDI panel.
• Updating of job notes.
• Ensuring that all shipment details are kept up to date.
• Adherence to companies’ guidelines, such as the code of conduct, disciplinary code, dress code, QSHE standards, etc.
• Liaison with clients to ensure that they are continually updated on the progress of clearances and delivery of their cargo as well as prompt resolution of queries.
• Liaison and correspondence with Vessel’s Agents,Groupage Agents, SAPO, NPA, Transnet, unpack depots, container terminals and other third parties to ensure that there are no delays in processing shipments.
• Arrange Delivery Release Order or Container Terminal Order where applicable.
• Upload/Email delivery documentation to nominated transporter, monitor vessel discharge, arrange delivery of cargo in conjunction with third parties and client.
• Obtain shipping line or agents’ charges.
• Follow up on POD’s from transporters.

Your skills and experience
• Matric Certificate is essential and any post-matric industry qualification will be a distinct advantage
• Minimum of 3 to 5 years of practical experience in Seafreight operations with a freight forwarder
• Demonstrated understanding of operational legislation and processes e.g. Incoterms, Bill of Landing, Customs clearing, Duties and VAT, etc.
• A good command of the English language (both written and spoken) is essential for this role.
• Advanced MS Office proficiency (Excel, Outlook and Compu-clearing a distinct advantage).
• Proven ability to prioritise tasks and work under pressure.
• Demonstrated ability to build and retain excellent client relationships.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Driven to provide customer service excellence and deal with customer queries effectively