Role Overview:
The Import Logistics Coordinator will manage and optimize the international shipment of heavy plant machinery from global suppliers, primarily utilizing sea freight routes. This role is critical to our project success: the coordinator must seamlessly align cargo arrival with strict construction schedules to prevent project delays, secure industry-specific government duty exemptions, and guarantee prompt last-mile road delivery from the port to the site. Additionally, they will maintain total operational transparency through meticulous record-keeping, MIS reporting, and seamless cross-departmental documentation.
Key Responsibilities
Sea Freight & Route Optimization: End-to-end management of ocean cargo, ensuring efficient route selection, booking container space, and negotiating competitive ocean freight rates.
Government & Duty Exemptions: Proactively apply for and secure industrial import duty exemptions by accurately preparing and submitting all required documentation to relevant ministries and government agencies ahead of time.
Construction Schedule Alignment: Monitor production and shipping timelines strictly against the construction site schedule; proactively mitigate risks to ensure zero construction downtime due to delayed equipment.
Last-Mile Road Logistics: Coordinate with local transport companies to guarantee the immediate and on-time delivery of containers and heavy goods by road from the port to the project site post-clearance.
Cross-Departmental Billing & Documentation: Timely review, verification, and submission of all freight invoices, port bills, and logistics documents to relevant internal departments (e.g., Accounts, Finance, Procurement).
MIS & Record Keeping: Maintain a detailed, up-to-date Management Information System (MIS) and log of all shipping activities, import histories, exemption approvals, and costs for audit and management review.
Ad-Hoc Logistics Duties: Execute any other related tasks and operational responsibilities as required by management to ensure smooth project execution, even if not explicitly outlined in this JD.
Desired Candidate Profile
Experience: 4–8+ years in international sea logistics, specifically handling import of heavy machinery, project cargo, or construction equipment.
Exemption Expertise: Proven track record of dealing with government ministries or agencies to successfully secure customs and industrial duty exemptions.
Administrative & Reporting Skills: Strong proficiency in maintaining MIS reports, digital archiving, and data management.
Project Management Skills: High pressure tolerance with an adaptive mindset and a strong understanding of how logistics delays impact construction timelines.
Knowledge: Deep mastery of ocean shipping regulations, port operations, and Incoterms 2020.
Tools: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, ERP systems (like SAP or Oracle), and government customs portals.