Import Operator

At Uniserve, we are looking for an experienced and customer-focused Airfreight Import Operator to join our growing Airfreight Operations team in Feltham.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a detail-oriented freight professional who enjoys managing the complete import process from pre-alert through to final delivery. Working in a fast-paced environment, you will play a key role in ensuring shipments are handled efficiently, customs requirements are met, and customers receive an exceptional level of service.

The successful candidate will work closely with customers, overseas agents, airlines, transport providers, and internal stakeholders, ensuring import shipments are processed accurately, compliantly, and profitably.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage airfreight import shipments from receipt of pre-alert through to final delivery and file closure.
• Create and maintain accurate shipment records within the company operating system.
• Monitor shipment progress and ensure service level agreements and operational milestones are achieved.
• Liaise with overseas agents, airlines, handling agents, transport providers, and customers throughout the import process.
• Prepare and submit customs declarations using approved customs systems.
• Review commercial invoices, packing lists, airway bills, and supporting documentation to ensure customs compliance.
• Resolve customs queries, examinations, holds, and documentation discrepancies with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
• Arrange payment of duties and taxes in line with company procedures.
• Act as the primary point of contact for customers, providing proactive updates and managing enquiries professionally.
• Coordinate cargo collection and final delivery arrangements through approved transport providers.
• Monitor delivery performance and resolve any service issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Verify supplier invoices, record operational costs accurately, and support customer invoicing processes.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records in line with customs, regulatory, and company requirements.
• Support operational efficiency initiatives and contribute to departmental performance targets relating to compliance, service quality, delivery performance, and billing accuracy.

What We're Looking For:

• Previous experience within an airfreight import or freight forwarding environment.
• Strong understanding of end-to-end air import operations.
• Experience preparing and submitting customs declarations using CDS or similar customs systems.
• Good knowledge of UK customs regulations, import procedures, tariff classifications, and customs compliance requirements.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple shipments and competing priorities.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy across documentation, customs entries, and financial information.
• Strong communication and customer service skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.
• A proactive, solution-focused approach to problem solving and issue resolution.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Commercial awareness and an understanding of the impact operational decisions have on customer service and profitability.
• A professional, dependable, and team-oriented attitude.
• Customs, logistics, or freight-related qualifications would be advantageous.

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything in this list - we value drive, mindset, and a willingness to grow.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary: We value your skills and commitment.
• Discretionary Bonus: Because your hard work deserves to be rewarded.
• Pension Scheme: We've got your future covered.
• Annual Salary Review: Your growth matters to us.
• Free Eye Test and up to £69 Vouchers towards Glasses: Taking care of your vision.
• Interest-Free Company Loan: We're here to support you.
• Free On-Site Parking: Convenient and hassle-free.
• Referral Bonus £750: Spread the word and earn some extra cash.
• Care First Lifestyle Programme: Because your well-being matters.
• Flu Jabs Annually: Stay healthy, on us!
• Life Assurance: We've got you covered.
• Electric Vehicle Charging Points at Work: Embrace sustainable transport.
• Flexible Career Pathway.
• Supply Chain Academy Education Courses: Expand your knowledge through our Apprenticeships and Commercial Courses.