Sea Imports Cross-Trade Coordinator

We are recruiting for an experienced Sea Imports Cross-Trade Coordinator to join a busy and growing freight forwarding operation. This role is ideal for someone with strong ocean freight knowledge, excellent customer service skills, and experience managing international cross-trade shipments from start to finish.

You will be responsible for the day-to-day coordination of global sea freight cross-trade movements, ensuring customers receive accurate updates while maintaining operational efficiency, supplier control, and profitability.

• Manage international sea freight cross-trade shipments from booking through to final delivery.
• Create and maintain accurate shipment files within the company operating system.
• Monitor shipment progress and ensure all milestones are updated promptly.
• Proactively identify and resolve shipment delays or operational issues.
• Ensure all documentation and operational records are maintained accurately.

• Provide regular, professional updates to UK-based customers throughout the shipment lifecycle.
• Respond efficiently to customer enquiries and operational requests.
• Maintain a high standard of customer service at all times.
• Communicate delays, changes, or exceptions clearly and proactively.

• Liaise with origin and destination agents worldwide to obtain shipment updates and documentation.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with overseas partners and suppliers.
• Chase agents to ensure operational milestones are achieved within agreed timelines.
• Escalate issues where necessary to minimise disruption and maintain service levels.

• Apply agreed freight rates, tariffs, and cost structures accurately.
• Verify supplier invoices against quotations, agreed rates, and operational records.
• Identify discrepancies, unexpected charges, or potential overbilling.
• Raise and resolve invoice queries with suppliers and overseas agents.
• Support margin control and profitability across shipments.

• Previous experience within sea freight imports and cross-trade operations.
• Strong understanding of international freight forwarding processes.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience handling freight costs, supplier invoices, and rate verification.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook and Excel.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Proactive and customer-focused approach.