Export and Import Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s globalized economy, the role of Export and Import Coordinators is becoming increasingly crucial.
As business landscapes grow more interconnected, the demand for skilled professionals who can streamline, navigate, and safeguard our international trade operations only gets louder.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Export and Import Coordinator?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core duties of this role,
- A hiring manager drafting the perfect job profile,
- Or simply curious about the intricacies of international trade coordination,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Export and Import Coordinator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Without further ado, let’s dive right in.
Export and Import Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities
An Export and Import Coordinator oversees and manages every aspect of the shipping process, including the handling of documentation related to import and export activities, ensuring compliance with international regulations and standards.
Their day-to-day responsibilities and duties include:
- Coordinating shipping logistics and ensuring that all shipments are on schedule
- Preparing and processing important shipping documentation such as invoices, packing lists, and cargo control documents
- Ensuring compliance with international shipping regulations and laws, including customs and tax laws
- Liaising with customs agents, warehouse staff, shipping companies, and clients
- Keeping track of shipment locations and resolving any issues that may occur during the shipping process
- Calculating and arranging for payment of freight, storage, duty, and other charges
- Providing customer service regarding shipment delays, disputes, and lost shipments
- Monitoring the quality and efficiency of import and export processes
- Maintaining updated knowledge of relevant laws and regulations, and ensuring all transactions comply with these rules
Export and Import Coordinator Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Export and Import Coordinator to manage our import and export documentation and logistics.
In this role, you will ensure compliance with all international import and export regulations, facilitate international shipments, and create and maintain relevant documentation.
Our ideal candidate has a comprehensive understanding of customs laws and regulations and possesses excellent communication skills.
The role of an Export and Import Coordinator is to streamline and manage all aspects of international transportation effectively.
Responsibilities
- Manage and coordinate all logistics and documentation for international freight
- Ensure compliance with customs regulations and other government agency requirements
- Maintain and organize import and export records
- Work with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and internal parties to ensure efficient movement of goods
- Analyze import/export data to improve supply chain efficiency
- Resolve any issues that may arise during the shipping process
- Prepare and submit required documentation for international shipments
- Monitor and report on activities and provide relevant management information
- Ensure effective and timely implementation of all logistics daily operational goals
Qualifications
- Proven experience as an Export and Import Coordinator or similar role
- Knowledge of import/export laws and regulations
- Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work well with a team
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database management software
- Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, or related field preferred
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Export and Import Coordinator
- Work Environment: Office setting with occasional need for warehouse or shipping site visits
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Logistics Manager or Supply Chain Manager
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations
- Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal]
What Does an Export and Import Coordinator Do?
An Export and Import Coordinator operates within the global logistics and supply chain sector.
They are responsible for planning, coordinating, and monitoring import and export operations.
They work with various stakeholders such as transportation companies, shipping agents, and customs officials to facilitate the smooth transfer of goods across international borders.
Their job involves obtaining necessary import and export documents, such as customs documents and insurance certificates, and ensuring compliance with both domestic and international trade regulations.
They also track shipments and communicate with clients about the package’s progress.
They coordinate with customs agents to handle any customs issues and arrange payments of freight fees.
In case of disputes, they are tasked to resolve any arising issues concerning freight rates, delays, or non-delivery of goods.
The Export and Import Coordinator is also responsible for maintaining accurate records of all imports and exports, which can be useful in auditing and reporting.
It is their role to strategize and find cost-effective solutions for the transportation of goods, ensuring customer satisfaction while maintaining the profitability of their organization.
Export and Import Coordinator Qualifications and Skills
An Export and Import Coordinator requires a specific set of skills and qualifications to manage and facilitate the international shipment of goods.
This includes:
- Understanding of import and export laws and regulations of various countries to ensure compliance.
- Experience with logistics and supply chain management to efficiently organize and coordinate import and export processes.
- Excellent communication skills to effectively negotiate contracts and deals with foreign suppliers, handle customer queries and liaise with various departments.
- Strong problem-solving skills to address any issues that may arise during the shipment process including delayed shipments or custom issues.
- Attention to detail for accurately filling out important paperwork and documentation related to import and export regulations.
- Time management skills to ensure that goods are shipped and received on schedule.
- Knowledge of foreign languages can be beneficial when dealing with overseas partners.
- Computer skills and familiarity with shipment tracking software and databases.
Export and Import Coordinator Experience Requirements
Entry-level Export and Import Coordinators typically have between 1-2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in international trade or logistics firms.
They can also acquire relevant skills and experience in roles such as Logistics Clerk, Freight Forwarding Agent or Customs Brokerage Clerk.
Candidates with 3-5 years of experience usually have gained broader industry knowledge and have honed their skills in coordinating international shipments, managing customs documentation, and ensuring compliance with domestic and foreign regulations.
They have likely worked in full-time positions as Export or Import Coordinators, Customs Brokers, or similar roles within the industry.
Export and Import Coordinators with more than 5 years of experience often possess significant expertise in the field of international trade and logistics.
They may have leadership experience and are generally capable of taking on supervisory or managerial roles.
They are proficient in tasks such as strategic planning, process improvement, team leadership, and managing complex international trade operations.
Export and Import Coordinator Education and Training Requirements
Export and Import Coordinators typically have a bachelor’s degree in international business, commerce, logistics, or a related field.
They need a solid understanding of international trade laws, customs regulations, shipping procedures, and documentation related to import and export activities.
Having strong proficiency in a foreign language could be a significant advantage, as this role often requires communication with international vendors and customers.
Some positions may require coordinators to have a master’s degree in a specific field like international business or supply chain management.
Candidates may also obtain certifications from recognized organizations such as the International Import-Export Institute or the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America, which can prove their competence in this field.
Experience in logistics, customs, or supply chain management roles is also beneficial and sometimes required.
Continuing education and staying updated with changes in international trade laws and regulations are crucial for success in this role.
Export and Import Coordinator Salary Expectations
An Export and Import Coordinator earns an average salary of $45,562 (USD) per year.
The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, education, the industry in which they work, and the location of their job.
Export and Import Coordinator Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Export and Import Coordinator need?
Export and Import Coordinators need to have excellent organizational skills, as they will be handling various tasks related to shipping, from documentation to coordination with customs officials.
They should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively liaise with suppliers, clients, and shipping companies.
Knowledge of export and import laws, regulations, and procedures is crucial, as is proficiency with computer systems used for tracking shipments.
Do Export and Import Coordinators need a degree?
While it’s not always required, many employers prefer Export and Import Coordinators to have a bachelor’s degree in Business, Logistics, or a related field.
Experience in the field of shipping and logistics can also be beneficial.
Knowledge of international trade laws and regulations, as well as proficiency in a second language, can be advantageous.
What should you look for in an Export and Import Coordinator resume?
A resume for this role should highlight the candidate’s experience in coordinating import and export operations, including handling documentation, scheduling shipments, and liaising with customs officials.
Look for knowledge of international trade laws and regulations, as well as any relevant certifications.
Experience with logistics software and proficiency in foreign languages can be added advantages.
What qualities make a good Export and Import Coordinator?
A good Export and Import Coordinator is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to multitask effectively.
They should have strong problem-solving skills to handle any issues that arise during the shipping process.
Good communication and interpersonal skills are also important for liaising with various parties involved in shipping.
They should also be adaptable, as import and export regulations can change and unexpected issues can arise.
Is it difficult to hire an Export and Import Coordinator?
Hiring an Export and Import Coordinator can be challenging, as it requires finding a candidate with a unique combination of skills, including knowledge of import and export regulations, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
Offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and a positive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve lifted the lid on what it truly means to be an Export and Import Coordinator.
And you know what?
It’s not just about handling shipment schedules.
It’s about navigating the global trade landscape, one shipment at a time.
With our comprehensive Export and Import Coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.
But why not take it a step further?
Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to meticulously crafted job listings or polishing your resume to shine among the rest.
Remember:
Every shipment is a part of a larger trade network.
Let’s navigate this landscape. Together.
How to Become an Export and Import Coordinator (Complete Guide)
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