Working within Freight Forwarding as a Freight Clerk provides an opportunity to really get to understand the shipping industry. This post is busy, usually involving verifying and maintaining records associated with incoming and outgoing shipments.
Many people start their careers as a Freight Clerk as this role falls under the broader career category of Shipping and offers the post holder the opportunity to progress to other jobs in Freight Forwarding as well as other roles within the shipping industry generally. The ideal candidate will be able to multi-task and be extremely well organised and be able to work as part of a team and so the ability to get on with people is extremely important.
What does a Freight Clerk Job description include?
- You will be expected to check manifests, invoices and orders to ensure they are recorded accurately for either incoming or outgoing shipments.
- You will work closely with suppliers and customers to ensure any problems, damages or anomalies are corrected. This will involve recording data appropriate to the task including accounting records.
- A Freight Clerk may also be responsible for inventory control/checking as well as the preparation of documentation such as work orders, shipping orders and Bills of Lading.
- Arranging for the shipping and delivery of materials is also a fundamental element of the role. This will involve understanding the best shipping methods for materials, knowledge of shipping procedures, routes and rate. You may also be required to pack goods for shipping.
- You are also responsible for calculating charges, storage space and demurrage charges.
Key skills and qualifications:
- Jobs in Freight Forwarding, usually require good GCSE/A-Level results, especially in subjects such as Maths and English.
- As a Freight Clerk you would need to be a good communicator, in particular, experience in dealing with customers and knowledge and understanding of customer service would be an advantage.
- Excellent clerical skills are required as being able to manage files and records as well as general office skills is vital to this role. In particular, the role of Freight Clerk requires a good sound understanding of mathematics.
- Depending upon the role and level of responsibility, you may also be required to have a sound understanding of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, HR, managing people and leadership.
- The postholder must be familiar with computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.
How to find more Freight Clerk jobs within the Shipping and Logistics Industry:
To find more jobs within this sector, or to place a vacancy, please contact us.