Freight Forwarder

Location: ZAF - Durban, Quarry Park Close
Job Posting Title: Freight Forwarder - 109375 
Time Type: Full Time

Role Overview

The Export Seafreight Controller is responsible for coordinating and executing ocean export shipments from booking stage through to final delivery. This role ensures compliance with international shipping regulations, maintains operational excellence, and delivers a high level of customer service to clients, carriers, and internal stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Shipment Coordination

• Handle full export seafreight process including booking, documentation, cargo planning, and shipment tracking.
• Arrange bookings with carriers, co-loaders, and service providers.
• Prepare, verify, and submit shipping documentation such as bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
• Coordinate container releases, VGM submissions, and transport arrangements.

Customer & Stakeholder Communication

• Act as primary point of contact for customers regarding shipment updates, queries, and problem resolution.
• Liaise with shipping lines, depots, transporters, and internal teams to ensure smooth cargo movement.
• Provide proactive status updates and ensure service levels meet client expectations.

Compliance & Operational Excellence

• Ensure shipments comply with customs, port, and international trade regulations.
• Maintain accurate records and file management according to company and legal requirements.
• Monitor deadlines to avoid delays, storage, demurrage, or penalties.
• Ensure all operational activities align with company SOPs and quality standards.

Financial Administration

• Verify freight rates, surcharges, and service costs.
• Monitor and prepare billing, cost accruals, and shipment profitability.
• Resolve invoice queries with customers, carriers, and internal finance teams.

Minimum Requirements

Minimum 3 years’ experience in export seafreight operations.

• Strong understanding of Incoterms, port procedures, and international trade requirements.
• Experience with carrier booking systems and freight forwarding software (e.g., CargoWise, ShipShape,).
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
• Problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously.
• Knowledge of customs documentation and export compliance regulations.

Preferred Attributes

• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Positive attitude and commitment to service excellence.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to identify cost-saving or efficiency opportunities.

DSV – Global transport and logistics

Working at DSV means playing in a different league.

As a global leader in transport and logistics, we have been on an extraordinary journey of growth. Let’s grow together as we continue to innovate, digitalise and build on our achievements.

With close to 150,000 colleagues in over 90 countries, we work every day to offer solid services and meet our customers’ needs and help them achieve their goals. We know that the best way to achieve this is by bringing in new talent, fresh perspectives and ambitious individuals like you. 

At DSV, performance is in our DNA. We don’t just work – we aim to shape the future of logistics. This ambition fuels a dynamic environment built on collaboration with world-class team players, accountability and action. We value inclusivity, embrace different cultures and respect the dignity and rights of every individual. If you want to make an impact, be trusted by customers and grow your career in a forward-thinking company – this is the place to be.

Start here. Go anywhere

Visit dsv.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Disclaimer: Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should an external candidate not hear from us within four (4) weeks following their application, they should consider their application unsuccessful. Strictly fair and non-discriminatory selection procedures will be followed. We use Affirmative Action (AA) measures in an endeavor to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by designated groups. Where possible, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act and in line with DSV’s Employment Equity plans. DSV reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time. 

Apply now