What does an Import Export Coordinator do?
Published 3 min read
An import export coordinator is responsible for the coordination and organization of the import and export of goods. This may include coordinating with suppliers, customers, transport companies, and other stakeholders to ensure that goods are imported and exported in a timely and efficient manner. The coordinator may also be responsible for tracking shipments, preparing documentation, and ensuring compliance with customs regulations.
Import Export Coordinator job duties include:
- Arrange transportation for imports and exports
- Ensure that all documentation is completed correctly
- Keep track of shipments and provide updates to clients
- Monitor compliance with import/export regulations
- Negotiate shipping rates with transportation providers
- Prepare reports on shipments and logistics operations
- Coordinate with customs brokers to clear shipments
- Handle claims and resolve issues with damaged or lost shipments
- Stay up-to-date on changes in import/export laws and regulations
Import Export Coordinator Job Requirements
An Import Export Coordinator typically needs a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must complete on-the-job training. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates who have completed a certificate or associate's degree program in international business, trade, or logistics. Prior experience working in customer service, international shipping, or freight forwarding is also helpful. An Import Export Coordinator must be detail-oriented and organized, with strong communication and computer skills.
Import Export Coordinator Skills
- International trade
- Logistics
- Customs regulations
- Documentation
- Incoterms
- Shipping
- Airfreight
- Ocean freight
- Land transportation
- Warehousing
- Distribution
Related: Top Import Export Coordinator Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become an Import Export Coordinator
An import export coordinator is responsible for the coordination and organization of the import and export of goods between businesses and countries. They work with customs officials, freight companies, and other businesses to ensure that shipments are properly processed and delivered in a timely manner.
To become an import export coordinator, you will need to have a strong understanding of international trade laws and regulations. You should also be familiar with the various methods of shipping goods, including air, land, and sea transport. In addition, you will need to be able to effectively communicate with people from different cultures and speak multiple languages fluently.
If you have these skills and qualifications, you can begin your career by working as an assistant to an experienced import export coordinator. With experience, you can eventually move up into a management position within a company or start your own import export business.
Related: Import Export Coordinator Resume Example
Related: Import Export Coordinator Interview Questions (With Example Answers)