Published: Aug 14, 2025 - The Import Manager leads a team to drive customer service excellence, productivity, and process improvements. This role manages and grows key ocean freight accounts, fosters strong internal and external relationships, and ensures the successful implementation of new accounts. The manager also oversees carrier and handling agent coordination to resolve issues and ensure seamless account integration with sales operations.

An Introduction to Professional Skills and Functions for Import Manager with a Cover Letter
1. Details for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Build the Import business, which includes process, systems, and infrastructure setup
- Define import requirements by category and work with business stakeholders to build a targeted import selection list for the next 6-9 months and which will regularly get renewed based on data inputs
- Identify and source capable and reliable 3rd party import partner agencies
- Put a planning and KPI management structure in place to drive performance to standards and targets with these partners
- Manage all trade compliance-related work with a high standard for documentation and SOP establishment
- Build and develop mechanisms to measure and audit adherence throughout the import supply chain process
- Be the main PIC for communicating with internal stakeholders across the locations about import-related subjects for Japan
- Manages, oversees, and performs leadership tasks to direct and control activities performed to effectively manage the end-to-end Air Freight Import department
- Assigning specific duties to employees
- Ensuring all employees are fully trained in all aspects of the Air Import operations as well as cross-trained in other areas
- Oversee the customer rate quote process
- Ensure customer profiles are accurate and up-to-date
- Respond to customer inquiries and other related customer service functions
- Ensure continuous improvement processes to increase efficiencies, reduce waste and improve performance for customers
Skills: Import Operations, Process Setup, Partner Sourcing, KPI Management, Trade Compliance, SOP Development, Customer Service, Continuous Improvement
2. Roles for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Plan and implement all import transportation strategies according to all supplier and customer demand and administer internal movement of all goods
- Partner with suppliers and demand planners/ procurement managers to ensure accurate movement of all international goods
- Ensure the arrival of goods within the required timeframe and obtain the best freight rates at all times
- Maintain relationships with freight forwarding partners, as well as suppliers’ logistics team members
- Ensure bookings for inbound cargo shipments are arranged at least 3-4 weeks in advance of the cargo's ready date with the assigned freight forwarding partners
- Work with suppliers to ensure the accuracy of all shipping and commercial documents
- Set up and maintain inbound shipment tracking within NetSuite (ERP system), for company-wide visibility/ accurate shipment status
- Notify all applicable 3PL warehouses of the inbound shipment schedule
- Create a monthly inbound forecast to plan labor accordingly
- Create and upload ASNs into 3PL warehouse systems to ensure a smooth receiving process
- Notify responsible parties of any NCRs/ receiving shortages or issues
- Process PO/ shipment receipts within Netsuite (ERP) and maintain system accuracy
- Notify all parties of any unforeseen delays for the arrival of shipments at their designated delivery points
- Design, evaluate and renew all contracts as per requirement and monitor and prepare reports for all import activities and recommend changes
- Assist in preparing all import quotes for customers and perform all shipment bookings with carriers
- Design all SOPs for the import department and ensure compliance with all company guidelines and prepare reports to be submitted to government agencies
- Perform audits on processes and maintain expert knowledge on all custom regulations
- Assist in providing landed cost for all existing and future items, providing updates
Skills: Import Transportation, Supplier Coordination, Freight Negotiation, Document Accuracy, Shipment Tracking, Forecast Planning, Contract Management, Customs Compliance
3. Functions for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Plan business activity and delegate workloads across the operations teams through effective team and individual engagement
- Ensure Standard Operating Procedures and Service Level Agreements are in place, and complied with, for all business handled by the branch
- Review and develop existing process standards and KPI’s to improve operational efficiency
- Act as an escalation point for the customer and network, ensuring any issues are raised with the Branch Manager
- Conduct the Company's disciplinary and grievance procedure, demonstrating a fair and consistent approach
- Provide timely and accurate reports to Management
- Support the recruitment process for all operational resources
- Engage and motivate the Freight Forwarding team through coaching, performance management and appraisal techniques
- Provide weekly briefings to the operations team to ensure awareness of operational performance and future planning
- Coordinate holiday planning, ensuring absence is managed within company guidelines
- Provide operational cover for team leaders in their absence
- Promote a positive and supportive working environment equally for all members of the team
- Monitor the performance and cost of all external suppliers to the branch
- Ensure all department administrative and accounting functions are completed within agreed timescales and deadlines, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and practice
- Ensure the successful implementation of all new network and BDM business
- Ensure all company procedures, including absence, performance, holiday, etc, are managed and adhered to at all times, raising any non-compliances or concerns at the earliest opportunity
- Review the training and development needs of employees, and provide mentoring and support to ensure best practice at all times
- Ensure all company briefings and communications are carried out promptly
- Continuously look to improve processes and procedures to drive efficiency in business operations and customer service
Skills: Team Leadership, SOP Compliance, Process Improvement, Customer Escalation, Recruitment Support, Performance Monitoring, Supplier Evaluation, Process Optimization
4. Job Description for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Participate, coordinate, and ensure execution for projects related to planning/ scheduling (symphony)
- Ensure proper inventory controls are in place for all stocks by company policies
- Provide leadership and support to import schedulers in setting up actions to drive overall team and customer satisfaction
- Create and update production schedule weekly, looking 4 weeks out on a rolling basis
- Review production and inventory schedules to plan accurate product allocations
- Monitor and analyze production KPI metrics to identify problems and drive solutions
- Allocate finished goods materials to customer orders
- Maintain sufficient inventory at all storage locations with 100% inventory accuracy (storage to system)
- Maintain sufficient packaged inventories to support inventory targets and customer needs
- Ensure data integrity within all tools and systems
- Provide analysis and recommendations in support of SKU rationalization processes
- Recommend and manage to targeted 9-digit inventory min/ max levels
- Provide decision support and identify imbalances with demand/ capacity information from a 30-day perspective
- Assign carriers to customer shipments when covering assigned lines
- Lead and participate in any inventory cycle or full physical counts each year
- Ability to work on weekends to support Shipping activities (truck receiving/shipping, customer service, after-hours 3499 incident calls
- Ensure clear understanding, agreement, and communication of all plans
- Timely and accurate communication of supply activities to support and within the S&OP process
- Maintain sufficient raw material inventories to support production needs
- Support and participate in projects cross-functionally
Skills: Project Coordination, Inventory Control, Team Leadership, Schedule Management, KPI Monitoring, Order Allocation, Data Integrity, Supply Planning
5. Accountabilities for Ocean Import Manager Cover Letter
- Manage the movement of customer cargo into and out of the United States by organizational policy and procedure, ensuring compliance with relevant local, country and international law and processes
- Evaluate improvements of existing procedures and working environments to advance the service level to the customer, profitability of the corporation, and well-being of fellow staff members
- Assure implementation at the local/regional level of the guidelines and/or standard procedures as outlined in the company’s IMS (Integrated Management System) and KWEB issuances, and as directed by the Corporate Customs and Compliance Services Officer
- Assure proper information flow with sales on changes and/or problems with external customers, with a specific focus on Ocean Forwarding concerns
- Evaluate staff performance regularly and annually through the PEAR process
- Hold regular (at least once per month) meetings with the department staff
- Monitor workload and adjust
- Monitor timely responses to external/internal customers and other Panalpina offices
- Check all files for accurate documentation (Customs, compliance, operation, and accounting)
- Assure complete billing of files by the corporate KPI
- Manage financial and currency processes and transactions according to company policy and law, optimizing the cost-effectiveness of Ocean import activities
- Investigate, plan and implement transport methods that are strategically effective and relevant, and which optimally meet the needs of the organization and its suppliers and customers
- Monitor traffic and cost budget compliance and advise Management of any deviation
Skills: Cargo Movement, Procedure Improvement, Compliance Assurance, Information Flow, Staff Evaluation, Workload Monitoring, Documentation Accuracy, Cost Optimization
6. Tasks for Ocean Import Manager Cover Letter
- Prepare quotations, review customer profiles and rate structures
- Support the Sales Department with customer information, rates, etc.
- Review the accuracy of Customer Profiles MWE
- Visit customers to improve communication and service
- Assure training and education of the department staff and initiate cross-training
- Monitor vendors’ compliance with service standards and requirements as per contract terms
- Monitor proper filing and updating of all departmental records, i.e., tariffs, manuals, FMC Rate filing, contracts, etc.
- Assist with the processing of RFQs
- Negotiate and manage contracts with providers to enable cost-effective transportation services
- Evaluate department performance on a regular (Monthly) basis using measurement standards and tools available
- Maintain a continuous improvement process to increase efficiencies and improve performance for customers
- Ensure personnel are trained, technically competent and well-informed of changes in customer service requirements and regulatory matters
- Increase the competency level of all ocean freight personnel to ensure quality, compliance and outstanding service
Skills: Quotation Preparation, Sales Support, Customer Visits, Staff Training, Vendor Compliance, Record Management, Contract Negotiation, Performance Evaluation
7. Expectations for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Manages the transportation of foreign goods to be received by the Academy’s Distribution Centers
- Responsible for developing and enforcing standard operating procedures to comply with foreign country regulations related to shipments and transportation with ocean carriers, freight forwarders, and truckers
- Contribute to design, map, and assess supply chain risk management and risk analysis for internal controls relating to import logistics, global movement of freight, freight forwarder origin management, foreign and ports, and ocean carrier services
- Builds relationships with ocean carriers and other service providers and helps resolve any freight problems that may arise
- Conducts annual RFQ process for ocean freight services
- Lead a team of two analysts and manage a 3PL relationship
- Participate in negotiations of annual ocean freight contracts via partnership with the Procurement Team
- Follows up with internal customers concerning the movement of shipments from global origins
- Address any issues that delay the clearance of goods through the import entry process, regarding import logistics, in conjunction with the manager of Customs Compliance
- Partner with the manager of Customs Compliance to ensure that service providers meet the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) minimum security criteria
- Determines metrics for critical events in the order management flow
- Ensures that all import containers are picked up, delivered, and empty containers returned timely manner
- Maintains knowledge of ocean freight tariffs and contracts, bunker fuel charges, etc., for successful negotiations with ocean carriers and service providers
- Ensures all daily, weekly, and monthly reports are completed accurately and on time
- Maintains excellent customer service relationships with corporate personnel, outside vendors, carriers and internal team members and managers
- Maintain internal control documentation, effectively perform assigned internal controls, remediate internal control exceptions, and respond to internal and external audit requests
Skills: Transportation Management, SOP Development, Risk Analysis, Carrier Relations, RFQ Management, Contract Negotiation, Customs Coordination, Performance Reporting
8. Competencies for Senior Import Manager Cover Letter
- Responsible for gateway activity which includes B2B and B2C import clearance until handover to the domestic distribution team
- Solve duty and tax miscalculation when it arises
- Maintain a good relationship with service providers and ensure their deliverables meet the company's SOP
- Build a good relationship with the authority from gateway ports, especially customs and excise
- Represent the company at all levels of customs and other government agencies to discuss the latest regulations related to ecommerce cross-border business
- Possess good commercial sense and identify the improvement gap in cross-border functions
- Work closely with the regional logistics team to develop an export policy
- Work closely with the sales and commercial team to develop the export market
Skills: Import Clearance, Tax Resolution, Vendor Relations, Customs Liaison, Regulatory Representation, Process Improvement, Policy Development, Market Expansion
9. Capabilities for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Assumes accountability for Import Operations, Customs compliance/statements and best operational practices, Employee development goals, performance, productivity and morale, Customer service levels, business development and growth
- Meeting/exceeding all corporate performance KPI’s
- Responsible for profitability through Budget monitoring, Cash flow analysis (A/R, COTS, ACH, Open Job), Performance monitoring (Radar reports) and Market/customer analysis
- Preparation of quotations for new/existing business
- Responsible for all regulatory issues within the department such as classifications, port entry and problem resolution
- Coordinated effort under the direction of the Regional Compliance Manager
- Provide sales support and accurate billing practices
- Manages Partnership / Agent relationship development
- Performs Bid/RFI/RFQ cost
Skills: Import Operations, Customs Compliance, Employee Development, Customer Service, KPI Achievement, Budget Monitoring, Regulatory Management, Sales Support
10. Performance Metrics for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Work with ocean carriers and co-loaders on global rate negotiations
- Managing and tracking multiple containers
- Daily status updates to internal stakeholders
- Coordinating and communicating with overseas factories
- Reconcile import files and accurately input data from import files into the company's computer systems
- Follow up and finalize all import shipments with the appropriate party
- Using tracing systems, trace every pending container
- Monitor the on-water transit
- Gather the information to prepare arrival notices with info from the origin and carriers
- Provide info to either the brokerage team or the outside broker for customs clearance
- Upon clearance, work with CFS or Steamship to clear any original documents requirements and/or payments
- Keep customers in constant communication with important milestones and resolve any issues to ensure smooth service
- Track and Trace Inbound Ocean shipments
- Process documents and issue arrival notices timely and accurately
- Work with demanding deadlines from customers
Skills: Rate Negotiation, Container Tracking, Stakeholder Communication, Data Entry, Shipment Finalization, Customs Coordination, Customer Communication, Document Processing
11. Key Deliverables for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Investigating the specialized and technical needs in the management and administration of products being shipped by the organization
- Making sure that all the products are arranged properly and then dispersed
- Negotiating documented agreements for the delivery and management of products
- Receiving, formulating, and verifying the required papers needed to ensure that the needs of the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) or other organizational bodies are adhered to
- Preparing all customs declaration files and cooperating with important agents for goods clearance, filing and taxation
- Administering the transfer of products as per the particularities of the warehouses or clients and making sure that the targets of the organization are achieved
- Coping up and communicating with the third parties indulging in these functional operations and paying and compiling the payments of the clients
- Administering and supervising the workings and undertakings of the workers in the import section of the GACC and handling the interactions with the administrative bodies
- Strategizing, planning, and enforcing the import activities as per the providers and requirements of the GACC and the Company
- Supervising the inside transfer of products and making sure that this is done in agreement with the rules, regulations, and policies of the GACC authorities
- Collaborating with the logistics providers and merchandising team and making sure that the global products get imported properly within the given time frame into the Chinese market
Skills: Needs Assessment, Product Arrangement, Agreement Negotiation, Document Verification, Customs Preparation, Goods Transfer, Third-Party Coordination, Staff Supervision
12. Outcomes for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Ensuring that she/he receives superior quality freight charges per unit regularly
- Creating, assessing, and regenerating documented agreements according to the needs
- Observing and formulating the records of the activities related to imports
- Helping to formulate quotes of trade goods for the company and clients and executing freight and cargo reservation operations with movers or transporters
- Conducting investigations for import judicial rules, regulations and standard policies and upholding her/his familiarity with tariffs and licenses
- Offering security on consignments and dispatchments and creating, developing, and completing disciplinary activities for various import methods and procedures
- Working with the General Manager and checking, studying, and examining various methods and procedures of importation
- Completing all other operational undertakings and workings related to the imports of goods and ensuring their compliance with the general policies of the organization
- Assist the Merchandise Manager in handling all local and overseas purchase orders and record them promptly
- Cooperate with the Merchandise Manager in tracking monthly General Trade orders and goods deliveries to clients (TPs, distributors, etc.)
- Cooperate with the Merchandise Manager in checking the warehouse data with distribution partners and third-party finance vendor
- Ensuring the confidentiality and security of files and filing systems
Skills: Freight Control, Contract Management, Recordkeeping, Quote Preparation, Regulatory Research, Shipment Security, Process Review, Order Tracking
13. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Plans, directs and controls import activities on a day-to-day basis at the direction of the Station Manager or District Director
- Manages teams working with the import service group, customers and key suppliers to ensure that products intended for import are in full compliance with import requirements and delivered
- Training employees, planning, assigning and directing work, appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees, addressing complaints and resolving problems
- Directs staff in expediting import correspondence, bid requests, and credit collections
- Maintain awareness of customer needs to develop compliance recommendations and decisions and opportunities for enhanced services
- Manages marketing of import services and growth of the procurement segment of the business
- Carries out supervisory responsibilities by the organization's policies and applicable laws
- Arranges shipping details such as import licenses, customs declarations, and packing and routing product
- Expedites export-import arrangements and maintains current information on export-import tariffs, licenses, and restrictions
- Effectively manages difficult customer situations
Skills: Import Operations, Team Management, Staff Training, Performance Appraisal, Compliance Oversight, Service Marketing, Shipment Coordination, Customer Relations
14. Milestones for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Creating import shipments in the ERP system
- Approve and track all bookings made by factories, exporters, to freight forwarders
- Coordinate consolidation of shipments from various suppliers to maximize efficiency in packing containers
- Enter the required shipping information into the customer freight forwarder portals for customer direct shipments
- Alert the operations team and sales team to any delays that will result in orders shipping late
- Communicating with the supplier network weekly regarding any shipment delays and extension requests
- Keeping shipment purchase orders up to date with the most current departure and arrival dates
- Working closely with overseas factories to obtain and review shipping documents
- Facilitating the delivery appointments between truckers and the warehouse
- Reviewing and approving customs, freight, and trucking invoices
- Inputting and analyzing monthly freight and transportation costs
- Sending, tracking, and reviewing all factory work in progress(WIP) reports every week
- Sending the necessary paperwork to the customs broker
- Sending packing lists to the warehouse
- Tracking all shipments for availability upon arrival at port
- Alert relevant teams to any variances between actual shipments and shipment purchase orders
- Revise shipment purchase orders if variances are approved or communicate with the supplier if variances are not approved
Skills: Shipment Creation, Booking Approval, Load Consolidation, Data Entry, Delay Notification, Supplier Communication, Document Review, Invoice Approval
15. Criteria for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Lead a dynamic team of 5 Key Account Managers that undertakes a range of activities for the Import department
- Continuously grow customer service excellence and productivity effectiveness through development and process review
- Engage and grow all people in the area of responsibility through the implementation of active leadership
- Retention and growth of ocean freight key accounts and for identifying key areas of added value to the customer
- Manage and develop existing customer relationships internally and externally
- Ensure they are committed and that their business is retained and opportunities for growth are leveraged
- Manage the implementation of all new key accounts to ensure success for customers and the company
- Manage Carriers and handling agents to resolve exceptions and discrepancies as they arise
- Liaise with the Sales department to ensure smooth implementation of new accounts
Skills: Team Leadership, Process Improvement, Customer Retention, Account Management, Relationship Building, Issue Resolution, Carrier Management, Sales Coordination
What are the Qualifications and Requirements for Import Manager in a Cover Letter?
1. Knowledge and Abilities for Air Import Manager Cover Letter
- Working experience as an air import manager
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Knowledge of the Transportation industry, Import/Global transportation/Regulatory and business development
- Must maintain a professional attitude and appearance at all times
- Ability to effectively interact and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders
- Recommend solutions while ensuring compliance with Customs regulations, rules, and policies
- Focus on a highly dynamic, challenging environment where managing multiple tasks is routine
- Proficient working knowledge and ability to use Microsoft Word and Excel
- Demonstrates effective organizational and project management skills
- Ability to lead a team and drive improvement with a hands-on approach
Qualifications: BA in Global Trade and Logistics with 4 years of Experience
2. Requirements and Experience for Ocean Import Manager Cover Letter
- Ocean Import Operations experience with increasing responsibilities, including supervisory experience
- Strong knowledge of Ocean Import operations
- Strong import carrier relationships
- Team-focused management style that fits into a fast-paced environment
- Ability to motivate teams to deliver high-quality standards
- Working knowledge of CargoWise
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong attention to detail, demonstrated integrity and professionalism
- Proven ability to perform under pressure and stress and to adjust plans to meet changing needs and requirements
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Proficient in MS applications, specifically MS Excel
- Knowledge of ERP systems
Qualifications: BA in International Business with 7 years of Experience
3. Education and Experience for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Working experience in Import Customs Clearance
- Must possess excellent organizational skills
- Ability in problem-solving and experience in managing customer complaints
- Ability multi-task and to deal with dynamic problems and variables
- Able to prioritize workload, work independently, be a team player and work in a fast paced environment
- Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Must have strong computer skills and experience in Microsoft Office Products
- Customs brokerage or transportation industry experience
- Management or supervisory experience
Qualifications: BA in Business Administration with 4 years of Experience
4. Professional Background for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Work experience with several years of knowledge in a similar position
- Experience in customs and export law
- Knowledge in the supply chain/logistics and International trades
- Advanced know-how in MS Office, especially Excel
- Must have Microsoft Dynamics AX knowledge
- Proficiency in Power BI
- Team spirit, strong communication skills and sociability
- Ability to work under pressure and flexibility
- Experience in handling Imports
- Must possess excellent customer service skills
- Ability to grasp extensive knowledge while dealing with a variety of people
- Must have strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to organize and manage multiple priorities
- Ability to manage own profit center and report on revenue generation, profit and loss
Qualifications: BS in Transportation Management with 9 years of Experience
5. Education and Qualifications for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Superior interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
- Experience in the workings of the import industry with third-party logistics experience, working for a Customs Broker's office
- In-depth knowledge of import procedures, specifically ocean imports
- Good problem-solving abilities
- Solid understanding of supply chain and inventory management processes
- Ability to plan and manage multiple complex projects in a deadline-driven environment
- Strong organizational and analytical skills
- Ability to evaluate processes for optimization purposes
- Ability to identify issues, present solutions and strategies and address the operational needs of the department
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite - especially Excel
Qualifications: BS in Port and Shipping Management with 5 years of Experience
6. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Experience in the same or similar role
- Strong understanding of Import and Export
- Experience in dealing with customers at multiple levels
- Must be able to work unsupervised and with a sense of urgency
- Strong communication and an open personality
- Must be able to communicate fluently and write reports in English
- Must have good administrative skills
- Be able to work in a team as well as independently
- Ability to excel and exceed customer expectations in a pressurised fast paced environment
Qualifications: BA in Trade Compliance with 3 years of Experience
7. Accomplishments for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Experience in a supervisory/management role in logistics, specifically within a Customs Brokerage department
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word and Excel
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Ability to provide leadership, support, and guidance to team members
- Ability to delegate tasks to individual team members
- Ability to solve conflicts among coworkers
- Excellent organizational and analytical skills
- Previous team leader or managerial experience
- Experienced in import/export, road, sea, and air freight and Customs clearance
- Passion for people and will lead the team forward
- Comfortable communicating with several internal and external stakeholders, via email and on calls
- Able to take ownership of tasks from start to finish
- Comfortable interpreting and manipulating data related to stockholding
Qualifications: BS in Business Logistics with 8 years of Experience
8. Abilities and Experience for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Experienced user of one or more IT systems used within the freight forwarding industry and MS Office applications
- Excellent communication skills in Dutch and English (written and verbal) and have good intercultural skills
- Leadership experience within the Freight Forwarding Industry
- Experience of HMRC procedures
- Strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills
- Strong PC Skills including Word, PowerPoint and particularly Excel
- Report development and analysis experience
- Ability to supervise and coach effectively
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- Strong knowledge of BDP order processing systems
Qualifications: BA in Trade and Transport Economics with 5 years of Experience
9. Education, Knowledge and Experience for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Must know and understand Consolidation Containers, as well as FCL and LCL
- Must have leadership skills, integrity, problem-solving, and be proactive
- Ability to teach, mentor and communicate well within a team setting
- Supervisor or management experience
- Experience in Freight Forwarding or related experience
- Proficient computer software skills including intermediate Microsoft Excel skills
- Ability to handle heavy email communication
- Must be a well-organized leader with a positive, can-do attitude
- Verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and time-management skills
- Must be fluent in English, both verbal and written
- Experience with Freight Stream, Magaya, or other freight software
Qualifications: BA in International Relations with 6 years of Experience
10. Skills Overview for Ocean Import Manager Cover Letter
- Professional experience working for an FMC licensed OTI (Ocean Transport Intermediary), either NVOCC or OFF (ocean freight forwarder), or ocean carrier
- Strong understanding of applicable laws, regulations and other government requirements
- Proven ability to establish or enhance ocean import/export operational functions
- Proven analytical and written skills and ability to communicate timely information to internal and external parties
- Excellent communication (written, verbal) skills, attention to all details, computer savvy, strong working knowledge of industry resources - online and offline
- Excellent mathematical analysis skills for optimizing shipping and processes
- Ability to identify potential problems before they occur and proactively resolve situations efficiently, effectively and thoroughly regardless of the cause
- Ability to manage the day-to-day interactions with contracted external service providers
- Strong phone and computer skills, including internet navigation, shipping software, and various office applications
Qualifications: BA in Global Supply Management with 7 years of Experience
11. Abilities and Qualifications for Ocean Import Manager Cover Letter
- Experience in Ocean Import operations
- Strong organization, planning, decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Strong leadership and teamwork skills
- Negotiation, conflict resolution, and people management skills
- Proven track record in employee development
- High level of written and oral communication skills
- Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships
- Management experience in the freight forwarding and customs brokerage industry
- Must have Certified Customs Specialist (CCS Certification) or Licensed CHB
Qualifications: BS in Transportation and Logistics with 4 years of Experience
12. Training and Certifications for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Extensive knowledge of Import regulations and requirements, including ITACS, ITC/HTUS, IATA, DOT, and USDA
- Knowledge of other government agencies (e.g., FDA, DEA), as it relates to shipping, import/export rules and regulations
- Effective organizational skills to meet deadlines
- Excellent verbal and written skills
- Ability to multitask and be a team player with colleagues (on-site and overseas) in a fast‐paced environment
- Proficient in Excel and other Microsoft Office suite products
- Ability to work the extra hours necessary to get important shipments cleared with Customs
- Progressive experience in Logistics/Supply Chain roles
- Experience managing or building direct import programs (air and ocean) at scale
- Experience or use of PMP/Lean Six Sigma/Kaizen
- Superior communication skills
Qualifications: BS in Import-Export Management with 6 years of Experience
13. Problem-solving Abilities for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Experience in the Seafood industry and business development
- Experience in processing factory, farm, import-export, Intra-EU sales, wholesale
- Knowledge in the major industries of the trading business of the following industries: Seafood (Salmon, Hake, Sea bass, Sea bream, Tuna, Shrimp, Squid, etc)
- Outstanding verbal and written communication skills in Italian
- Spoken and written English skills of business level
- Experience and knowledge of export/import procedures
- Understanding of the Seafood value chain in the global trade business
- Good network of Seafood suppliers (farmers/processors/exporters) and buyers (importers/wholesalers)
- Excellent client management and negotiation skills
- Highly organized, outstanding time management skills
- Capability to handle multiple tasks with great time-management skills and responsibility
- Eager to make an impact in the Seafood market and looking to actively drive new projects
- Ability to adapt quickly to the fast-paced working environment
Qualifications: BA in Trade Logistics Management with 7 years of Experience
14. Technical Expertise for Ocean Import Manager Cover Letter
- Experience in import intermodal logistics
- Familiarity with the Tacoma/Seattle terminals
- Ability to effectively communicate with terminals, steamship lines, and freight forwarders, verbally and by email
- Ability to influence vendors to achieve results that will minimize exposure to demurrage and per diem charges
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Previous experience with freight forwarding, drayage, etc.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office suites
- Ability to work independently and efficiently
- Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines regularly
- Experience in the Shipping/Clearing and Forwarding industry
- Knowledge of Supply Chain Management, International Forwarding, Clearing, and Transport
- Extensive Imports experience (with a focus on sea freight)
- Must have good negotiating skills
- Able to excel in a high-pressure environment
Qualifications: BS in Procurement and Logistics with 8 years of Experience
15. Experience and Qualifications for Import Manager Cover Letter
- Experience in a sales/business development background
- Experience in importing/exporting fresh produce (Fruits/ Vegetables / Nuts)
- Outstanding verbal and written communication skills in the local language
- Understanding of the agricultural value chain in the global trade business
- Prior experience in the retail industry in Poland
- Experience as an Import Manager
- Experience within a freight forwarding environment
- Extensive knowledge of the Customs brokerage industry
- Management experience in Customs brokerage
- Proven ability to maintain an excellent rapport with customers, staff, and vendors
- Understanding of and experience in the financial management of a branch (P&L, balance sheet, forecasting, and budgets)
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, customers, and the general public
Qualifications: BS in Industrial Engineering with 9 years of Experience