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.
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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.
- Value-added tax law
Taxes imposed on the purchase prices of goods and the legislation that governs this activity.
- 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.
- 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.
Skills
- 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.
- Create import-export commercial documentation
Organise the completion of official documents such as letters of credit, shipping orders, and certificates of origin.
- Have computer literacy
Utilise computers, IT equipment and modern day technology in an efficient way.
- Handle quotes from prospective shippers
Evaluate the quotes fares and services offered from prospective transporters on the market.
- Arrange customs documents
Make sure goods have the proper documentation and information to pass customs.
- Meet deadlines
Ensure operative processes are finished at a previously agreed-upon time.
- Speak different languages
Master foreign languages to be able to communicate in one or more foreign languages.
- 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.
- Ensure customs compliance
Implement and monitor compliance with import and export requirements in order to avoid customs claims, supply chain interruption, increased overall costs.
- Monitor merchandise delivery
Follow up logistical organisation of products; ensure that products have been transported in a correct and timely fashion.
- 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.
- Manage import export licenses
Ensure the effective issuing of permits and licenses in import and export processes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Communicate with shipment forwarders
Maintain a good flow of communication with shipper and freight forwarders, who ensure a correct delivery and distribution of goods.
- Perform clerical duties
Perform administrative tasks such as filing, typing up reports and maintaining mail correspondence.
- Administer multi-modal logistics
Manage the flow of products through multi-modal transportation.
- 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.
- 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.
- Apply for refunds
Make inquiries at the supplier in order to return, exchange or refund goods.
- 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.