Imports Clerk

Essential Information

Import clerks manage data for international shipments and provide support for many steps of the transportation process. They work with customs agents, warehouse staff, freight companies, and clients. Clerks help with shipping, receiving, and record keeping for international transactions. It also includes verifying that all documentation adheres to import-export policies and laws. 

Job Duties

An import-export clerk has a wide range of duties that deal with each step of the freighting process. They track shipments and communicate with clients about the package's progress. They coordinate shipping with customs agents for clearance on overseas deliveries. Clerks also deal with quotes from prospective shippers and handle claims with insurance companies if any shipment problems happen to occur.

An import-export clerk's main task is to provide efficient delivery logistics through data management. They fill out import-export documentation, compile carrier and route assignments, compute international fees for each shipment, and keep track of shipment payments and quotas. Much of this work is done using automated systems that can identify shipments, collect data, and register packages with government agencies.

Job Requirements

• Aspiring import-export clerks must have a diploma or certificate Diploma or Certificate in Customs and Legislation Procedures


• Should have at least 2 years experience in the Freight Industry 


• International trade certificate programs provide additional job preparation with courses that focus on import-export regulations and international trade.


• An import-export clerk must have customer service and negotiation skills to deal with the demands of overseas and local clients.


• They must be familiar with the legal requirements regarding importing and exporting shipments, as well as their company's internal procedures. Clerks should also be confident with figures, since they'll have to convert weights, volumes, and currencies for international shipments.