Ocean Import Agent - job 1 of 3

As an Ocean Import Agent at Expeditors, your main responsibilities include ensuring timely and accurate freight movement and documenting processes. You will track and trace ocean import files, manage customer communications, and ensure compliance with regulations. Additionally, you’ll play a key role in keeping relationships with suppliers strong and meeting operational performance standards.

To join Expeditors as an Ocean Import Agent, you need a minimum of 2 years of experience in ocean and air imports, a solid understanding of import documentation, and exceptional customer service skills. You should also be proficient in Microsoft Office and have effective communication skills in English. Completion of the Dangerous Goods Certification is required within the first 6 months of employment.

Expeditors is committed to the growth of its employees by offering various training programs. As an Ocean Import Agent, you will participate in mandatory training and have access to management and leadership training, ensuring you meet the company’s standard of 52 hours of training each year.

The work culture at Expeditors emphasizes values like professionalism, curiosity, and integrity. We foster a friendly environment where employees are encouraged to take initiative, enhance their skills, and build strong customer relationships while adhering to company cultural attributes.

On a typical day as an Ocean Import Agent at Expeditors, you will monitor the movement of freight, communicate with customers, and ensure timely data entry into our operational systems. You will also be keeping an eye on compliance, responding rapidly to customer inquiries, and contributing to process improvements to enhance service delivery.

In your response, highlight specific roles you have held in ocean imports and discuss your specific achievements or experiences. Emphasize your passion for logistics and how you believe the position at Expeditors aligns with your career goals.

When answering, detail your understanding of the key documents involved, such as the Bill of Lading and customs paperwork. Providing an example of how you have successfully navigated the documentation process in the past will showcase your expertise.

Discuss methods you use for prioritization, such as creating daily task lists or using digital tools to keep track of deadlines. Highlight your ability to remain organized under pressure while maintaining exceptional service.

Provide a specific example of a past experience, focusing on your communication and problem-solving skills. Emphasize your ability to listen to customer concerns and craft a solution that meets their needs.

Discuss your understanding of relevant compliance requirements, such as customs regulations. Detail the strategies you put in place, such as regular training sessions or checks that you conduct to ensure all compliance measures are being met.

Illustrate your approach to communication, emphasizing your proactive communication style. Provide an example of how clear communication has contributed to successful operations in your previous roles.

Reflect on what exceptional customer service means to you, mentioning timeliness, responsiveness, and going above and beyond to meet client needs. Share an instance where your commitment to customer service led to a positive outcome.

Talk about specific techniques you use to manage your time effectively under pressure. This could involve organizing your day around priorities or using time management tools to keep projects on track.

Emphasize the importance of collaboration in logistics. Provide examples of how working with a team has increased productivity and helped overcome challenges in your previous positions.

Share insights on best practices you’ve identified in your past roles and discuss your commitment to continual improvement. Mention specific areas you may look to enhance, such as streamlining communication or optimizing data entry processes.