Reed
Import Operator (Customs-Focused)
Location: Felixstowe Based
Salary: £30,000 + benefits (listed below)
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
About the Role
An established and growing freight forwarding and logistics provider is seeking an experienced Import Operator with a strong focus on customs compliance to join its busy operations team. This is a key role responsible for managing end-to-end import shipments while ensuring all customs processes are accurate, compliant, and delivered efficiently.
You will work closely with internal departments, clients, HMRC systems, and external partners to ensure goods are cleared and delivered smoothly, maintaining exceptional service standards throughout.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage import shipments across various modes (primarily ocean, with exposure to road and air where required)
- Complete and submit customs declarations using CDS (and/or relevant customs systems)
- Ensure full compliance with UK import regulations, including tariff classification, valuation, and origin
- Liaise with customers to obtain necessary documentation (commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates, etc.)
- Calculate duties, VAT, and ensure accurate financial processing
- Communicate with HMRC and handle queries, inspections, or compliance checks
- Monitor shipment progress from arrival through to final delivery
- Work closely with transport providers, ports, and warehouses
- Maintain accurate records and ensure audit-ready files at all times
- Provide high-quality customer service, updating clients proactively
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven experience in an import operations or customs role within freight forwarding
- Strong working knowledge of UK customs procedures and regulations
- Hands-on experience with customs systems (e.g. CDS, Destin8, CNS, or similar)
- Good understanding of commodity codes, duty rates, and Incoterms
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Confident working independently and as part of a team
Desirable
- Experience handling deep sea imports and containerised cargo
- Knowledge of customs special procedures (e.g. inward processing, bonded movements)
- Familiarity with freight systems such as CargoWise or similar
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- Ongoing training and development in customs and freight operations
- Opportunity to grow within a reputable and expanding logistics business
Benefits:
- Bupa health care
- annual bonus
- up to 9% employer pension contribution
- Perk box
How to Apply
If you are an experienced Import Operator with a strong customs background looking for your next challenge, apply now with your CV.
To apply for this job please visit www.reed.co.uk.
Make this application stronger
Use these quick checks before applying so your CV, interview preparation and job search are better matched to this vacancy.
Before you apply
Check the key details and make sure the role matches what you are looking for.
- Review the job title, company, location, salary and working pattern if provided.
- Check the skills, experience or qualifications requested by the employer.
- Make sure the commute, hours and contract type are realistic for you.
Tailor your CV
For Accounting & Finance Jobs, highlight the most relevant skills, experience and achievements linked to this type of work. Keep it honest, clear and focused on what the employer is asking for.
Use the CV Builder or browse Career Advice.
Prepare for interview
If your application is successful, prepare simple examples that show your motivation, strengths and suitability.
Keep searching smarter
Do not rely on one application. Keep searching similar roles and set up alerts so new vacancies reach you faster.