Ocean Import Agent

About Expeditors

Expeditors is a worldwide logistics business based in Seattle, Washington. As a Fortune 500 company, it supports international trade through tailored solutions and integrated information systems. The company operates a global network of more than 350 locations across six continents and employs over 19,000 trained professionals.

At Expeditors, the focus is on professionalism, leadership, and a service-oriented culture. The company emphasizes internal growth, with more than half of employees having been with the business for five years or longer. This retention is supported by a compensation approach designed to reward long-term careers, not just short-term roles.

Role summary

The Ocean Import Agent is responsible for keeping freight and shipment information moving accurately and on time while delivering strong customer service within the Ocean Import team.

Key duties

• Keep the freight movement process running smoothly and without unnecessary delay.
• Enter operational data accurately and within required timeframes.
• Monitor and follow up on ocean import shipments and related files.
• Use the Global Ocean Import Workflow Monitor every day.
• Send documents to customers or brokers on time for customs processing.
• Prepare accurate and timely billing for clients and vendors.
• Work with customers to coordinate international shipments and meet service expectations.
• Maintain effective working relationships with suppliers such as shipping lines, trucking providers, and other partners.
• Follow internal and external compliance requirements, including government regulations.
• Understand the department workflow and look for better ways to improve productivity and efficiency.
• Ensure customer SOPs are in place and kept up to date.
• Meet company KPI targets according to internal procedures.
• Handle overseas communication and respond promptly to emails and requests from internal and external contacts.
• Escalate issues to management when needed.
• Follow company policies and regulations with integrity and professionalism.
• Complete the required 52 hours of training each year and attend mandatory sessions when scheduled.
• Work in line with the company’s 10 cultural attributes: Appearance, Attitude, Confidence, Curiosity, Excellence, Integrity, Pride, Resolute, Sense of Humour, and Visionary.

Performance expectations

The role is expected to deliver excellent customer service by anticipating needs, handling issues quickly, and improving customer satisfaction. It also requires dependable execution, strong reliability, good collaboration, effective communication, and commitment to training and personal development.

Core competencies

This position requires strong capability in billing and accounting accuracy, precise data entry, and timely shipment processing. Work must align with Expeditors procedures, customer requirements, and applicable regulations.

Knowledge, skills, and experience

• Prior knowledge of ocean shipping documentation is an advantage.
• Hazardous materials certification is preferred.
• Familiarity with Expeditors systems and operating procedures is beneficial.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including listening, understanding, and communicating clearly to achieve results.
• Self-driven approach with strong organisation skills.
• Comfort using Microsoft Office and general computer systems.
• Fluency in English.
• Positive, helpful attitude.
• At least 1 year of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent mix of education and experience.
• High attention to detail.
• Right to work in the UK is required.

Training and development

Employees are expected to complete a minimum of 52 hours of training per year, including management or leadership training where needed, and to complete required training promptly with minimal reminders.

Benefits

• Private medical insurance
• Pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Bike to work scheme
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Training and personnel development programme