Profession import export specialist

Import export specialists have and apply deep knowledge of import and export goods including customs clearance and documentation. They declare goods that cross the border, inform customers about customs and give advice concerning disputes related to customs legislation. They prepare the documents needed and make sure they are delivered to customs. They check and process duty and make sure VAT payments are done as applicable.

Personality Type

• Conventional / Enterprising
• Conventional / Realistic

Knowledge

• Embargo regulations

  The national, international and foreign sanctions and embargo regulations, e.g. Council Regulation (EU) No 961/2010.

• International commercial transactions rules

  Pre-defined commercial terms used in international commercial transactions which stipulate clear tasks, costs and risks associated with the delivery of goods and services.

• International import export regulations

  Know the principles that govern the import and export of products and equipment, trade restrictions, health and safety measures, licenses, etc.

• Value-added tax law

  Taxes imposed on the purchase prices of goods and the legislation that governs this activity.

Skills

• Arrange customs inspection

  Contact customs in order to let them inspect the import or export goods. Make sure every shipment has the proper documentation and conform to legislation and regulations.

• Handle quotes from prospective shippers

  Evaluate the quotes fares and services offered from prospective transporters on the market.

• Manage import export licenses

  Ensure the effective issuing of permits and licenses in import and export processes.

• Plan transport operations

  Plan mobility and transport for different departments in order to obtain the best possible movement of equipment and materials. Negotiate the best possible delivery rates. Compare different bids and select the most reliable and cost-effective bid.

• Handle carriers

  Organise the transportation system through which a product is conveyed to its buyer, through which a product is sourced from a supplier, including customs.

• Perform clerical duties

  Perform administrative tasks such as filing, typing up reports and maintaining mail correspondence.

• Ensure customs compliance

  Implement and monitor compliance with import and export requirements in order to avoid customs claims, supply chain interruption, increased overall costs.

• Have computer literacy

  Utilise computers, IT equipment and modern day technology in an efficient way.

• Create import-export commercial documentation

  Organise the completion of official documents such as letters of credit, shipping orders, and certificates of origin.

• Monitor merchandise delivery

  Follow up logistical organisation of products; ensure that products have been transported in a correct and timely fashion.

• Apply import strategies

  Follow and implement strategies for importing according to the size of the company, the nature of its products, the available expertise, and business conditions on the international markets. These strategies include procedural and strategic issues and involve the use of customs agencies or brokers.

• Meet deadlines

  Ensure operative processes are finished at a previously agreed-upon time.

• Communicate with shipment forwarders

  Maintain a good flow of communication with shipper and freight forwarders, who ensure a correct delivery and distribution of goods.

• Apply conflict management

  Take ownership of the handling of all complaints and disputes showing empathy and understanding to achieve resolution. To be fully aware of all Social Responsibility protocols and procedures, and to be able to deal with a problem gambling situation in a professional manner with maturity and empathy.

• Speak different languages

  Master foreign languages to be able to communicate in one or more foreign languages.

• File claims with insurance companies

  File a factual request to an insurance company in case a problem occurs which is covered under an insurance policy.

• Arrange customs documents

  Make sure goods have the proper documentation and information to pass customs.

• Build rapport with people from different cultural backgrounds

  Understand and create a link with people from different cultures, countries, and ideologies without judgements or preconceptions.

• Create solutions to problems

  Solve problems which arise in planning, prioritising, organising, directing/facilitating action and evaluating performance. Use systematic processes of collecting, analysing, and synthesising information to evaluate current practice and generate new understandings about practice.

• Apply for refunds

  Make inquiries at the supplier in order to return, exchange or refund goods.

• Apply export strategies

  Follow and implement strategies according to the size of the company and possible advantages towards the international market. Set goals to export products or commodities to the market, in order to minimize risks for potential buyers.

• Administer multi-modal logistics

  Manage the flow of products through multi-modal transportation.

Optional knowledge and skills

Source: Sisyphus ODB