Customs Coordinator

Location: Basildon
Salary: up to £35,000 DOE
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Hours: 8:00am – 4:30pm

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Import & Customs Coordinator to join our busy client's logistics and freight forwarding operation. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a strong background in import operations and customs procedures who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and taking ownership of shipments from arrival through to final delivery.

The successful candidate will play a key role in coordinating imports, managing customs documentation, liaising with key stakeholders, and ensuring cargo movements are completed efficiently and compliantly.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage import shipments through the full operational lifecycle, from arrival to final delivery.
• Coordinate with shipping lines, transport providers, warehouse teams and customers to ensure the smooth movement of cargo.
• Process and verify import documentation, ensuring compliance with customs and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and submit customs declarations using relevant systems and procedures.
• Obtain cargo releases and associated charges from shipping lines and carriers.
• Create and maintain accurate shipment records within internal operating systems.
• Convert and update electronic shipment data, ensuring customer and consignment information is correct.
• Manage container releases and coordinate collections with haulage providers.
• Complete relevant customs and border formalities, including transit and discharge processes where applicable.
• Communicate proactively with customers, providing regular shipment updates via telephone, email and messaging platforms.
• Work collaboratively with customs, warehouse and operations teams to ensure service levels are achieved.
• Produce client invoices and ensure all operational records are maintained accurately.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• At least 2 years' experience within freight forwarding, customs clearance or import operations.
• Good working knowledge of customs procedures and UK import processes.
• Experience using industry systems such as Sequoia, Destin8 & CDS
• Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-moving environment.
• Strong communication skills and confidence when dealing with customers, carriers and colleagues.
• A proactive and reliable approach, with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

If you have a solid background in import operations and customs clearance and are looking for your next challenge within a growing logistics environment, please get in touch!