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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Freight Inspector

💰 $45,000 - $75,000

LogisticsSupply ChainTransportationQuality AssuranceInspection

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a meticulous and highly observant Freight Inspector to join our dynamic logistics and transportation team. In this pivotal role, you will be the frontline guardian of our freight operations, responsible for ensuring that all inbound and outbound shipments meet stringent quality, safety, and regulatory standards. You will meticulously inspect cargo, vehicles, and documentation to prevent damages, identify discrepancies, and guarantee compliance with all applicable local, federal, and international transportation laws. This position is critical for maintaining the integrity of our supply chain, mitigating risks, and upholding our commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Warehouse Supervisor / Lead
  • Shipping & Receiving Clerk
  • Commercial Truck Driver

Advancement To:

  • Senior Freight Inspector / Lead Inspector
  • Logistics Manager / Supervisor
  • Claims Manager
  • Compliance & Safety Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Quality Assurance Specialist
  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Safety Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Conduct comprehensive pre-loading and post-unloading inspections of freight to identify and document any signs of damage, shortage, or overage.
  • Meticulously verify shipment contents against critical documentation, including bills of lading, packing lists, manifests, and customs paperwork, to ensure accuracy.
  • Ensure all shipments, particularly those containing hazardous materials (HAZMAT), are properly classified, labeled, placarded, and secured according to 49 CFR, IATA, and IMDG regulations.
  • Prepare detailed, accurate, and timely inspection reports, incorporating photographic evidence and written descriptions of findings for claims processing and quality control records.
  • Assess the structural integrity and cleanliness of transportation assets, such as trailers, intermodal containers, and rail cars, prior to loading to ensure they are fit for use.
  • Monitor and enforce correct cargo securement and weight distribution techniques to prevent shifting during transit and to comply with legal weight limits.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on transportation regulations, including those set by the Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), and other relevant authorities.
  • Communicate inspection outcomes, discrepancies, and required corrective actions clearly and professionally to carriers, drivers, warehouse staff, and management.
  • Initiate, investigate, and manage the freight claims process by gathering necessary evidence and coordinating with all involved parties to reach a resolution.
  • Use warehouse management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS), and handheld scanning devices to accurately track freight status and update system records.
  • Reject and formally quarantine shipments that do not meet company standards or regulatory requirements, documenting the reasons for non-conformance.
  • Perform targeted and random quality audits on freight, loading procedures, and documentation to identify systemic issues and areas for process improvement.
  • For international shipments, verify compliance with all customs, import/export, and biosecurity regulations to prevent delays and penalties.
  • Confirm the proper functionality and calibration of specialized equipment, such as temperature monitoring devices for refrigerated (reefer) cargo.
  • Investigate and report on incidents involving freight, including theft, tampering, or contamination, to support loss prevention efforts.
  • Provide direct guidance and hands-on training to loading crews on best practices for freight handling, stacking, and securing.
  • Proactively identify potential safety hazards within the yard, dock, and warehouse environments, taking immediate action to mitigate risks.
  • Analyze inspection data to identify trends in damages or compliance issues, presenting findings and recommendations to the leadership team.
  • Coordinate with third-party surveyors and government agency inspectors during official audits, facility inspections, or complex claim investigations.
  • Ensure the physical security of high-value or sensitive cargo by verifying seal integrity and monitoring access throughout the handling process.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in training new warehouse associates and junior inspectors on proper freight handling and inspection protocols.
  • Participate actively in safety committee meetings, providing valuable insights from field inspections to improve overall workplace safety.
  • Collaborate with the logistics and planning teams to optimize loading patterns and reduce the frequency of in-transit damages.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of inspection processes, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and documentation standards.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of transportation regulations (e.g., DOT, FMCSA, FRA, IATA, IMO).
  • HAZMAT Certification: Certified or able to become certified in handling hazardous materials (e.g., 49 CFR, IATA DGR).
  • Damage Assessment: Ability to accurately assess the type and extent of cargo and equipment damage.
  • Technical Report Writing: Skill in creating clear, concise, and defensible inspection reports with supporting evidence.
  • Freight Claim Processing: Knowledge of the procedures for filing and managing freight claims with carriers.
  • WMS/TMS Proficiency: Experience using Warehouse Management Systems and/or Transportation Management Systems.
  • Inspection Tools: Competency in using tools such as digital cameras, measuring tapes, and handheld scanners.
  • Cargo Securement Principles: Strong knowledge of AAR (Association of American Railroads) and other cargo loading and securement guidelines.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Exceptional ability to notice minor discrepancies and details that others may overlook.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with diverse stakeholders.
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills to investigate issues and determine root causes.
  • Integrity and Objectivity: Unwavering commitment to ethical conduct and unbiased reporting.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to stand, walk, climb, and work in various environmental conditions for extended periods.
  • Decision-Making: Confidence in making timely and sound judgments, such as accepting or rejecting a shipment.
  • Conflict Resolution: Ability to de-escalate situations and professionally manage disagreements with drivers or shippers.
  • Time Management: Proven ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Logistics & Supply Chain Management
  • Business Administration
  • Transportation Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of experience in a related role within the transportation, logistics, warehousing, or supply chain industry.

Preferred:

  • Direct experience in a role involving freight inspection, cargo surveying, quality control, or claims management. Experience working in a cross-dock, LTL/FTL terminal, railyard, or port environment is highly advantageous.
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