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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Freight Operator

💰 $45,000 - $70,000

LogisticsSupply ChainTransportationFreight Forwarding

🎯 Role Definition

A Freight Operator is the central nervous system of a logistics and transportation company. This role is responsible for the end-to-end coordination of domestic and international shipments, ensuring goods move efficiently, cost-effectively, and in compliance with all regulations. As a key liaison between clients, carriers, and warehouses, the Freight Operator is a master of multitasking, problem-solving, and communication. You will be instrumental in managing the daily flow of cargo, from initial booking and documentation to final delivery, directly impacting client satisfaction and operational success. This position requires a sharp eye for detail, a proactive mindset, and a deep understanding of the intricacies of air, ocean, and ground transportation.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Logistics Coordinator / Assistant
  • Customer Service Representative (Logistics/Supply Chain)
  • Warehouse Associate / Dispatcher

Advancement To:

  • Senior Freight Operator / Team Lead
  • Logistics Manager / Operations Manager
  • Trade Compliance Specialist

Lateral Moves:

  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Customs Brokerage Agent
  • Carrier Procurement Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Manage the complete lifecycle of shipments across all modes (Air, Ocean, Road, Rail), from quoting and booking to tracking and final delivery confirmation.
  • Prepare, process, and meticulously review all necessary import/export documentation, including Bills of Lading (B/L), Air Waybills (AWB), commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, providing proactive and timely updates on shipment status, potential delays, and delivery schedules to ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.
  • Liaise and negotiate with a network of carriers, freight forwarders, truckers, and warehouse partners to secure competitive rates and ensure optimal capacity and service levels.
  • Track and trace active shipments using Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and carrier portals, identifying and resolving any in-transit issues or exceptions before they escalate.
  • Coordinate customs clearance procedures by working closely with customs brokers and ensuring all required documentation and declarations are accurate and submitted on time.
  • Generate and deliver accurate freight quotations to clients and sales teams, considering factors like mode of transport, volume, weight, origin, destination, and service requirements.
  • Ensure all freight movements are executed in strict compliance with international and domestic shipping regulations, including Incoterms, hazardous materials (HAZMAT), and other governmental requirements.
  • Proactively identify and implement opportunities for route optimization and process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce transit times, and minimize costs.
  • Handle and resolve customer inquiries, complaints, and freight claims for lost or damaged cargo in a professional and timely manner.
  • Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with both clients and service providers to foster long-term partnerships and smooth operations.
  • Input and maintain highly accurate data for all shipments within the company's Transportation Management System (TMS) or other operational software.
  • Arrange for necessary cargo insurance and handle the associated documentation to mitigate risk for clients' goods.
  • Coordinate with warehouse teams for the timely receiving, dispatch, and handling of cargo, including cross-docking and consolidation activities.
  • Audit and approve carrier and vendor invoices, reconciling any discrepancies against quotes and service agreements to ensure accurate billing.

Secondary Functions

  • Support the sales and account management teams by providing operational insights, rate analysis, and solutions for prospective and existing clients.
  • Prepare and distribute pre-alert notifications and arrival notices to overseas agents, partners, and consignees.
  • Assist in the development and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for key accounts and operational workflows.
  • Monitor carrier performance and provide feedback to management to support vendor scorecards and procurement strategies.
  • Participate in regular team meetings to discuss operational challenges, share best practices, and contribute to departmental goals.
  • Support ad-hoc data requests and generate reports on shipment volumes, costs, and on-time performance for internal analysis.
  • Contribute to the organization's data strategy by ensuring data integrity within the TMS.
  • Collaborate with business units to translate data needs into engineering requirements for system enhancements.
  • Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies if working within a tech-forward logistics environment.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Transportation Management Systems (TMS): Proficiency in using TMS platforms like CargoWise One, BluJay, SAP TM, Oracle OTM, or other proprietary systems.
  • Freight Documentation: Expertise in creating and managing key shipping documents such as Bills of Lading, Air Waybills, and Shipper's Letter of Instruction (SLI).
  • Incoterms Knowledge: Solid understanding of all 11 Incoterms and their practical application in international trade and pricing.
  • Customs & Trade Compliance: Familiarity with customs regulations, Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes, and import/export compliance procedures.
  • Freight Quoting & Rating: Ability to accurately calculate and quote freight costs based on various factors including weight, dimensions, mode, and surcharges.
  • Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in MS Excel for data manipulation, reporting, and analysis, as well as Word and Outlook for communication.
  • Mode-Specific Knowledge: In-depth operational knowledge of at least one primary mode of transport (Air Freight, Ocean Freight FCL/LCL, or Road Freight FTL/LTL).

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous in handling complex documentation and data entry to prevent costly errors.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to think critically and creatively to resolve logistical challenges, shipment delays, and customer issues under pressure.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear and professional interaction with clients, carriers, and internal teams.
  • Time Management & Organization: Superior ability to prioritize a high volume of tasks, manage multiple shipments simultaneously, and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Negotiation: Strong negotiation skills for securing favorable rates and terms with carriers and service providers.
  • Customer-Centric Mindset: A genuine dedication to providing outstanding service and building lasting client relationships.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities, market conditions, and unexpected operational disruptions.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

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

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of direct experience in a freight forwarding, brokerage, or logistics operations role.

Preferred:

  • Hands-on experience managing both import and export shipments for air and/or ocean freight.
  • Proven track record of successfully managing client accounts and carrier relationships in a freight forwarding environment.
  • Experience with a major TMS platform such as CargoWise One is highly desirable.
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