Ocean Import and Export Specialist

Job Summary

The Ocean Import & Export Specialist is responsible for coordinating international ocean freight shipments, with primary emphasis on import operations and support for export activities. This position manages shipment activity from booking through final delivery, ensures compliance with regulatory and customer requirements, and works closely with overseas agents, steamship lines, port terminals, trucking providers, customs brokers, and internal teams to deliver a high level of service.

Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Coordinate ocean import shipments from origin through final delivery
• Monitor vessel schedules, container milestones, and estimated arrival times
• Process arrival notices, carrier releases, and shipment updates
• Coordinate with customs brokers to support timely ISF, entry filings, and cargo clearance
• Schedule drayage from ports or rail ramps to customer locations or company facilities
• Manage container free time to reduce or avoid demurrage, detention, and storage charges
• Review and validate shipping documents including Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and related records
• Coordinate ocean export bookings with steamship lines, carriers, and NVOCC partners
• Prepare export documentation including House and Master Bills of Lading, certificates of origin, and AES/EEI filings
• Coordinate container loading, unloading, stuffing, stripping, and gate-in activity to meet cutoff times
• Resolve shipment delays, rolled cargo, equipment shortages, and other service issues in a timely manner
• Audit vendor charges and invoices for accuracy
• Prepare timely and accurate customer billing
• Provide shipment updates and professional communication to customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders
• Maintain accurate shipment files and system updates
• Support special projects and other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong problem-solving skills with a sense of urgency
• Customer-focused approach with professional communication skills
• Ability to manage challenging conversations with vendors, carriers, and service providers
• Reliable attendance and commitment to daily operational deadlines

Education and Experience

• 2–5 years of experience in ocean freight, freight forwarding, or NVOCC operations preferred
• Working knowledge of international ocean freight processes and documentation
• Knowledge of FMC regulations preferred
• Knowledge of Incoterms 2020 preferred
• Experience with Ocean Bills of Lading types and shipment documentation preferred
• Understanding of global port operations, vessel routing, and inland rail ramps preferred
• Experience using transportation or logistics management systems preferred
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications required

Requirements

• Ability to work onsite during standard business hours
• Flexibility to work overtime as needed based on business demands
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to communicate effectively with customers, carriers, port personnel, drivers, brokers, and office staff
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive business information

Benefits

• Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• Company-paid Long-Term Disability
• Company-paid Short-Term Disability
• Paid Vacation (PTO) & Holiday Pay
• Paid Sick Time Off
• 401(k) Plan with Employer Matching
• Health FSA and Dependent Care FSAs available
• Additional optional benefits including Commuter Benefits, Pet Insurance, Renters Insurance, and a Pharmacy Discount Program

Allstates WorldCargo is an equal opportunity employer.

About Us:

Allstates WorldCargo is one of the most established freight forwarders in the United States. Founded in 1961 and recently named one of Inbound Logistics’ Top 100 3PL Providers, we deliver reliable, scalable logistics solutions across air, ocean, ground, and final mile.

Headquartered in Orlando, FL with 51 offices throughout North America and a global network that supports every major market, we combine decades of experience with forward-thinking technology to create solutions for our clients.

As a stable organization with a strong record of customer satisfaction, we are committed to long-term growth for our company, our customers, and our team members. Many of our team members have been with the company for decades, with an average tenure of nearly 20 years. We foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development.

If you’re looking to join a company that values innovation and results, we encourage you to explore opportunities with Allstates WorldCargo.