Position Summary
The Import Logistics Specialist is responsible for the end-to-end execution and tracking of ocean import shipments. Operating within our ERP system and tracking platforms, this role ensures seamless container movement from booking and customs clearance through final drayage delivery. This is a detail-driven, high-coordination position that acts as the operational bridge between vendors, forwarders, customs brokers, and internal warehouse teams — guaranteeing on-time delivery while aggressively mitigating unnecessary logistics costs.
Key Responsibilities
- End-to-End Tracking: Manage the full execution and tracking of ocean import containers — from booking, documentation, and customs clearance through drayage delivery and empty-container return.
- System Maintenance: Update container status and key milestones in the company's ERP system and tracking platforms in a timely manner to ensure accurate, real-time visibility.
- Document Review: Review booking confirmations, bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and other import documents; identify and resolve discrepancies early to avoid delays and additional costs.
- Customs Coordination: Work with customs brokers to provide required documentation and ensure timely customs release.
- Delivery & Container Return: Coordinate container pickup, delivery appointments, unloading, and empty-container return with drayage providers and the warehouse; monitor free time to minimize demurrage, detention, storage, and other accessorial charges.
- Exception Management: Proactively identify delays, exceptions, and risks; investigate root causes, coordinate with relevant parties to resolve issues promptly, and keep stakeholders updated.
- Cost Control: Verify the accuracy of logistics charges; compare rates across shipping lanes, carriers, forwarders, and drayage providers to control unnecessary logistics spend.
- Vendor Management: Manage day-to-day communication with forwarders, ocean carriers, booking agents, customs brokers, and drayage providers; monitor their responsiveness and service performance, and recommend process improvements.
Required Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor's degree or above; Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, International Trade, or a related field preferred.
- Computer Skills: Proficiency in Excel and other Microsoft Office applications; experience with SAP or other ERP systems is a plus.
- Attention to Detail: Able to manage multiple shipments in parallel without letting details or critical deadlines slip.
- Problem Solving: Stays composed when new issues arise and proactively drives them to resolution.
- Communication: Clear, timely communication that keeps vendors, customs brokers, the warehouse, and internal teams aligned.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree or higher, preferably in Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, International Trade, or a related field
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications
- Experience with SAP or other ERP systems
- Ability to manage multiple shipments and critical deadlines with strong attention to detail
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to proactively resolve issues
- Clear and timely communication with vendors, customs brokers, warehouses, and internal teams
What We Do
We are lifestyle and wellness experts. Our core business is home furnishings, but we’ve grown into six key categories (consumer products, services, technology, retail, logistics, and venture) through a suite of nationally recognized brands and powerful partnerships. Since 2019, we have proudly been a Certified B Corporation®. We meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. As a company, we’re concerned not only with revenue, but also with our corporate social responsibility for society, workers, the community, and the environment. We’ve got a triple bottom line: planet, people, profits. Every day, we focus on making accessible items that excite consumers—and making a difference.
