Freight Specialist

FREIGHT SPECIALIST

Come join the TOTO USA Family!

The bathroom is where we start and end our days - it's an everyday luxury we'd never want to do without. TOTO believes that people should have the greatest comfort, convenience and performance design possible in the bathroom. Improving people's lives is what inspires every TOTO innovation.

TOTO is one of the world's largest plumbing products manufacturers. We offer a complete line of residential and commercial plumbing fixtures and fittings, faucets, accessories, shower and flush valves, as well as lavatories, toilets, air baths and urinals. More than 1,500 TOTO engineers and their colleagues are committed to achieving the seamless integration of performance, conservation, technology, and innovation. 

Perks of the job,

· Excellent benefit package which includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. 

· Paid vacation, Paid Holiday & 401K, Company match after (1) one year that vests immediately upon participation

· Collaborative, dynamic work environment within a fast-paced awesome company

SUMMARY:

Freight Specialist - Receives, verifies, stores, and distributes all information related to import and export shipments of materials, products, and supplies within the department. Enters and maintains accurate shipment information in the ERP system. Serves as a liaison between vendors, customers, the accounting department, the purchasing department, and 3PL teams. Prepares, distributes, and files forms and reports, and traces missing or delayed shipments to resolve issues. Processes and records all documents for inbound and outbound shipments, maintains inventory accuracy, and ensures timely and accurate receiving, movement, and tracking of containerized materials, products, and supplies. Analyzes and anticipates market trends to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES of a Freight Specialist:

1.    Maintain inventory accuracy and integrity at all times.

2.    Follow all facility policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, the employee handbook.

3.    Handle domestic and international freight shipments.

4.    Collect and share required information with relevant departments and stakeholders for effective collaboration.

5.    Collaborate with suppliers, forwarders, brokers, truckers, and internal departments to ensure timely deliveries.

6.    Compare costs for premium quotes and standard quotes with multiple forwarders and drayage fees.

7.    Utilize available information to determine the most efficient shipping options.

8.    Monitor, manage, and track all freight ETAs and costs (FCL, AIR, LCL, Domestic).

9.    Verify the accuracy of all shipping documents through continuous communication with suppliers and forwarders.

10.    Enter and maintain in-transit data in the ERP system.

11.    Work with forwarders on invoice procedures.

12.    Direct scanning of all import/export documents into assigned folders.

13.    Resolve receiving issues between PP&C, Accounting, 3PL, and warehouse teams.

14.    Coordinate with PP&C and forwarders on container-related issues.

15.    Calculate all freight-related charges and compare estimates with actual invoices for accuracy.

16.    Negotiate and dispute freight charges and additional charges as necessary.

17.    Communicate with drayage companies regarding shipments and issues.

18.    Communicate with customs brokers and the GCT team to ensure smooth cargo flow.

19.    Provide container documentation to appropriate associates.

20.    Use Excel, Word, and other office applications to support logistics operations.

21.    Support all other import/export activities as required.

22.    Maintain good housekeeping practices (safe, neat, and orderly work area per 5S program), follow all safety rules, and comply with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations. Support ISO-related activities and encourage adherence among team members.

23.    Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities (No direct reports to this position).

• Collaborates and communicates with suppliers, forwarders, and all other interested parties

• Manages cargo from origin to receiving to support and maintain material schedules.

• Optimization of efficiency through minimization of cost.

• Monitor and analyze international market trends, sharing the information with interested parties.

• Demonstrates constant learner mentality and grows knowledge base and skill set

QUALIFICATIONS for Freight Specialist:

•    Exceptional verbal and written communication, with the ability to convey information clearly and professionally.

•    Meticulous attention to detail and strong time management, ensuring accurate and timely task completion.

•    Proficient in ERP systems, including SAP, AS400, and JDE, as well as Microsoft Word and Excel.

•    Self-reliant and accountable, able to work independently while maintaining high performance standards.

•    Highly organized, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks effectively.

•    Proactive problem-solver, taking initiative to identify and implement efficient solutions.

•    Demonstrates sound judgment, knowing when to seek guidance and consistently following established protocols.

Regardless of position or title, all TOTO employees are expected to provide the highest level of customer service and kindness for the organization. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

TOTO USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

TOTO USA provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws. We are committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace.