SEA FREIGHT EXPORT CONTROLLER

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Sea Freight Export Controller to join our dynamic logistics team in South Africa. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the complete sea freight export process, from initial order placement through to final delivery to international markets. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational capabilities, comprehensive knowledge of export regulations, and the ability to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining the highest standards of customer service.

 

Key Responsibilities

 

Export Operations Management

• End-to-End Shipment Coordination: Manage the complete export process from receiving client orders in South Africa through to final delivery at international destinations
• Booking Management: Coordinate with local shippers and suppliers, receive export orders from clients, and arrange vessel bookings and sailings according to cargo readiness dates
• Vessel Scheduling & Monitoring: Monitor vessel movements, track vessel schedules, port activities, and shipping routes to optimize shipment planning and minimize delays
• Container Management: Coordinate container loading at South African ports, book cargo space with shipping lines, and ensure efficient utilization of container capacity
• Operational Oversight: Ensure accurate and timely data entry into transportation management systems (TMS) and relevant logistics software

Documentation & Compliance

• Document Preparation & Verification: Prepare, review, and verify all export documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, bills of lading, house bills of lading, and export permits
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all export activities comply with South African customs regulations, international trade laws, export control regulations, and maritime safety standards
• Certificate Processing: Handle processing of certificates of origin, permits, and other required certifications for specific destinations
• Customs Coordination: Coordinate with customs agents, SAPO, NPA, Transnet, and other statutory bodies to ensure smooth clearance of export shipments
• Quality Assurance: Complete customer-specific data quality tasks and perform final quality checks on all documentation

Client Relations & Communication

• Customer Service Excellence: Serve as the primary point of contact for international customers and consignees, addressing inquiries, providing shipping updates, and resolving issues promptly
• Status Reporting: Provide regular status updates to clients and overseas agents, keeping them informed on shipment progress from booking confirmation through vessel departure and final delivery
• Issue Resolution: Proactively identify and resolve operational challenges, ensuring minimal disruption to client operations and maintaining customer satisfaction
• Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with local suppliers, international clients, overseas agents, shipping lines, vessel agents, and service providers
• Communication Coordination: Liaise with overseas agents and consignees to ensure continuous updates on shipment progress and delivery arrangements

Financial & Administrative Functions

• Cost Management: Monitor and control export-related expenses including freight rates, shipping line charges, agent charges, and other associated costs
• Rate Negotiation: Collaborate with shipping lines, carriers, and service providers to negotiate competitive rates and secure capacity
• Invoicing & Documentation: Prepare estimates for logistics quotes, manage invoicing processes, and ensure accurate financial documentation
• Insurance Coordination: Ensure insurance is set up with relevant providers for clients requiring coverage
• Performance Monitoring: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) including on-time delivery, shipment accuracy, and cost performance

Logistics Coordination & Delivery Management

• Local Transport Coordination: Coordinate collection of cargo from local suppliers and arrange transport to South African ports for loading
• Port Operations: Coordinate with South African port authorities, container terminals, and stevedores for efficient cargo loading and vessel departure
• Documentation Distribution: Provide shipping documentation to overseas agents and consignees for destination clearance and delivery
• Vessel Departure Monitoring: Monitor vessel departures from South African ports and provide sailing confirmations to overseas parties
• Third-Party Liaison: Coordinate with local transporters, container depots, and port facilities to prevent delays in export processing