Ocean Import Specialist

Ocean Import Operations Manager

Manage end-to-end ocean import shipments, ensuring compliance with global trade regulations while proactively identifying, managing, and resolving exceptions through close coordination with overseas agents, carriers, customs brokers, and internal teams.

What You'll Do:

• Pre-Arrival Coordination & Arrival Notice Management
  • Receive pre-alert/shipment documents from origin offices or overseas agents.
  • Follow up with steamship lines for ISF confirmation, Arrival Notice, and freight invoices.
  • Review all charges (ocean freight, origin costs, documentation fees, amendments, etc.) and prepare accurate Arrival Notice billing.
  • Issue Arrival Notice + invoice to the consignee/broker minimum 7 days prior to vessel arrival (or immediately for late vessels) to ensure timely payment and avoid delays.
• Customs Clearance & Last Free Day (LFD) Management
  • Coordinate with customs broker for clearance status and resolve any holds (exam, AMS, PGA, etc.).
  • Track Last Free Day for both demurrage (storage) and detention (container use) daily.
  • Proactively send LFD alerts and reminders to consignee/broker starting 7 days before LFD, then 3 days, 2 days, and daily countdown once inside 48 hours.
  • Escalate to management when consignee is unresponsive or LFD is at risk.
• Delivery Coordination & Trucking Arrangement
  • Arrange delivery with truckers once cargo is cleared and available (or on wheels if live unload).
  • Coordinate with consignee/broker on delivery appointments, special requirements (liftgate, inside delivery, etc.).
  • Handle any delivery exceptions (refused cargo, storage orders, redelivery fees) and ensure additional costs are approved and billed to consignee.
• Container Return Monitoring & Detention/Per Diem Management
  • Monitor empty container return status daily after delivery.
  • Follow up with consignee/trucker for proof of empty return before detention clock expires.
  • Calculate and bill any detention/per diem charges incurred due to late return; ensure payment is collected from consignee (never absorbed by us unless pre-approved).
  • Dispute incorrect carrier detention invoices when applicable.
• File Closure, Cost Reconciliation & Customer Communication
  • Reconcile final carrier and vendor invoices against quoted/billed amounts.
  • Issue any debit notes for additional charges (detention, demurrage, exam fees, waiting time, etc.) and follow up for payment.
  • Obtain proof of delivery, close file in system, upload all final documents, and release final invoice to customer.
  • Act as single point of contact for consignee throughout the shipment: provide proactive status updates, answer queries, resolve issues, and ensure complete customer satisfaction.

What You Need:

• 2–4 years experience in Ocean Import Operations (FCL & LCL required)
• Strong understanding of US import procedures including ISF, AMS, PGA holds, customs clearance, demurrage, and detention
• Hands-on coordination experience with steamship lines, customs brokers, truckers, and overseas agents
• Ability to track and manage Last Free Day (LFD) for both demurrage and detention
• Experience handling delivery appointments, trucking arrangements, delivery exceptions, and cost approvals
• Proficiency in freight forwarding systems/TMS
• Amenable to working the night shift (US - EST time zone)
• Comfortable with having their productivity monitored through tools like Insightful
• Excellent communication skills and a strong customer service mindset
• High attention to detail and ability to handle multiple files in a fast-paced environment

Technical Requirements

• Fiber internet (PLDT Fiber, Converge, Globe Fiber, etc.) - recommended speed of 100/50 Mbps
• Backup internet (mobile hotspot or secondary ISP) capable of at least 20 Mbps
• Quiet, conducive home workspace
• OPTIONAL: Wired Ethernet connection preferred during work hours
• OPTIONAL: Power backup (UPS) if the location experiences frequent outages

Why Expedock

• HMO coverage and leave credits become available after three months of engagement.
• Supportive Remote Environment: Work from home alongside a collaborative team that values growth and mutual success.
• Structured Engagement & Training: Start strong with a structured engagement program and client-specific training designed to help you quickly master your assigned workflows.

Candidate Data & Privacy Notice

By submitting your application to Expedock, you acknowledge and consent to the collection, use, and processing of your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes. Your information will be used to:

• Evaluate your qualifications and suitability for current and future roles
• Communicate with you throughout the recruitment process Improve our hiring processes and overall candidate experience
• Maintain talent pools for future opportunities, where permitted by law

We handle candidate data with care and in accordance with applicable data protection and privacy regulations. Your information will only be accessed by authorized team members and will not be shared with third parties without your consent, unless required by law.