Company Overview
We are a dynamic and forward-thinking customs services provider, committed to delivering high-quality customs solutions to our clients. With a strong focus on operational excellence, compliance, and customer service, we are looking to strengthen our customs operations team by hiring a proactive and detail-oriented Customs Specialist.
Position Summary
As a Customs Specialist, you will be responsible for the smooth and accurate processing of customs formalities for designated customers. You will prepare and submit import and export customs declarations, manage customer instructions and documentation, and ensure that all activities are completed in accordance with applicable customs regulations and agreed customer requirements.
This is a pivotal operational role requiring strong attention to detail, the ability to work effectively within established processes, and a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for improvement. You will work closely with customers, internal teams, customs authorities, European offices, and other external stakeholders to ensure an efficient and compliant customs clearance process.
Key Responsibilities
• Complete import and export customs declarations in accordance with standing instructions, customer requirements, client IOPs, and applicable HMRC legislation.
• Submit accurate customs entries using ASM Sequoia and ensure all required information and supporting documentation is complete and compliant.
• Manage multiple shared and individual mailboxes, customer documents, records, and folders for SCDP and Control Tower customers.
• Issue accurate and timely customs clearance instructions to express agents and European offices in support of Control Tower operations.
• Manage workloads effectively, ensuring declarations and customer instructions are completed within agreed timescales and customer KPIs, while appropriately prioritising urgent requests.
• Handle customs activities across multiple transport modes, including road, sea, and air freight, covering a diverse range of commodities and product types.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with customers and internal and external stakeholders through clear and effective communication.
• Respond promptly and efficiently to customer and operational queries via email and telephone.
• Liaise with HMRC, customs authorities, port operators, and other relevant external parties as required.
• Rate, create, and manage jobs within Microsoft Dynamics to support the end-to-end services provided to designated customers.
• Support month-end processes and provide accurate reporting data for designated customers.
• Maintain and continuously develop knowledge of customs processes and procedures, including Customs Procedure Codes (CPCs), the UK Tariff, preferential origin requirements, and applicable customs formalities.
• Apply knowledge of UK import processes, including Bonded Warehouse, Inward Processing (IP), Returned Goods Relief (RGR), and other relevant customs procedures across the UK and EU.
• Ensure appropriate application and understanding of Incoterms within international trade and customs processes.
• Contribute to continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance customs processes, operational efficiency, and service quality.
Qualifications and Experience
• Previous experience in customs operations, customs clearance, import/export, freight forwarding, or a similar operational environment.
• Practical knowledge of customs procedures and import and export declaration processes.
• Knowledge of UK customs requirements and HMRC legislation, including relevant Customs Procedure Codes (CPCs) and the UK Tariff.
• Understanding of customs procedures such as Bonded Warehouse, Inward Processing (IP), Returned Goods Relief (RGR), and preferential origin requirements is an advantage.
• Experience with ASM Sequoia and Microsoft Dynamics is an advantage.
• Experience working with customs activities across road, sea, and air freight is desirable.
• Good understanding of Incoterms and their application within international trade.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications. Experience with Microsoft Excel is an advantage.
• Strong attention to detail with a high level of accuracy when working with customs documentation and data.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships with customers, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
• A strong team ethic combined with the ability to work independently and proactively.
• Willingness and ability to learn new systems, develop customs knowledge, and adapt to changing operational and regulatory requirements.
What We Offer
• A responsible and varied role within an international customs environment.
• Opportunity to develop your expertise across a broad range of customs procedures, commodities, customers, and transport modes.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment with support from colleagues and management.
• The opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement of customs processes and customer service.
• An office-based working environment with a smart casual dress code.
• A dynamic operational environment where priorities may change and tight deadlines are part of delivering excellent service to our customers.
• Some weekend work may occasionally be required depending on operational and customer needs.