<p>An experienced Import Coordinator manages incoming shipments, customs documentation and supplier liaison to ensure timely, compliant delivery. They coordinate with freight forwarders and carriers, resolve issues and keep stakeholders informed. This role suits an organised communicator with logistics experience and a good grasp of international trade regulations.</p>
<p>The Import Coordinator job description below provides a practical template for recruiters and HR teams to attract skilled candidates who can manage import operations efficiently.</p>
<h2>Import Coordinator Job Profile</h2>
<p>The Import Coordinator is responsible for overseeing all aspects of inbound shipments from planning to delivery. They ensure compliance with customs regulations, manage documentation and coordinate with internal teams and external partners. This role requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills and the ability to prioritise tasks under pressure. The coordinator will support the continuous improvement of import processes and supplier performance.</p>
<h2>Import Coordinator Job Description</h2>
<p>The Import Coordinator organises and monitors the movement of goods from overseas suppliers to company warehouses or customers. They liaise with freight forwarders, customs brokers and carriers to schedule shipments, track progress and manage exceptions. The role includes preparing and verifying import paperwork such as bills of lading, commercial invoices and packing lists, and ensuring correct classification and valuation for customs clearance. The coordinator proactively resolves delays or non-conformities, negotiates scheduling with carriers and works with procurement and warehouse teams to align delivery windows. They analyse shipment data to identify trends and recommend cost-saving opportunities, such as consolidation or alternative routing.</p>
<p>Regular communication with suppliers and stakeholders ensures transparency and timely decisions. The role demands up-to-date knowledge of Incoterms, import duties and customs procedures. The coordinator will maintain accurate records, support audits and liaise with compliance teams to reduce risk. In smaller organisations, the role may also include arranging inland transport by lorry and coordinating with port agents and terminal operators.</p>
<h2>Import Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities</h2>
<ul>
<li>Coordinate inbound shipments, booking space with carriers and confirming estimated times of arrival</li>
<li>Prepare and review import documentation, including bills of lading, invoices, certificates of origin and packing lists</li>
<li>Liaise with customs brokers to ensure timely customs clearance and correct duty payments</li>
<li>Track shipments and update internal stakeholders on status, delays and exceptions</li>
<li>Resolve discrepancies in documentation, shortages or damage claims with suppliers and carriers</li>
<li>Monitor supplier performance and maintain strong working relationships with freight forwarders</li>
<li>Optimise import routes and consolidation options to reduce freight and duty costs</li>
<li>Ensure compliance with international trade regulations and company import policies</li>
<li>Support internal audits and maintain accurate records and shipment archives</li>
<li>Coordinate inland delivery by lorry and arrange warehousing where required</li>
<li>Use transport management systems and ERP platforms to record and report shipment data</li>
</ul>
<h2>Import Coordinator Requirements and Qualifications</h2>
<ul>
<li>Proven experience in import operations, logistics or freight coordination</li>
<li>Good knowledge of customs procedures, incoterms and import documentation</li>
<li>Strong organisational skills with an ability to prioritise and manage multiple shipments</li>
<li>Excellent written and verbal communication skills for liaison with suppliers and carriers</li>
<li>Proficient with transport management systems, spreadsheets and ERP systems</li>
<li>Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills to handle exceptions</li>
<li>Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines</li>
<li>Relevant logistics, supply chain or customs qualification is desirable</li>
<li>Experience with international trade compliance and documentation audits</li>
<li>Flexibility to work with different time zones and occasional urgent operational needs</li>
</ul>