Description

A specialist in imports detects and assists in preventing, infractions of U.S. customs laws and export regulations, as well as the entry of illicit drugs or products in the United States. They also help prevent weapons and parts of weapons from being imported into the country.

Import experts have a range of responsibilities that they perform every day, such as reviewing cargo manifests on computers, examining the physical cargo on a dock as well as in warehouses, and interacting with shipping companies and freight forwarders. They also collaborate with companies and foreign shippers to assist them comprehend import and export regulations. If the goods are seized by these experts, they are able to provide explanations and to impose fines and penalties and seize cargo that is prohibited as well as participate in legal proceedings and negotiations.

Import specialists collaborate with other professionals in a variety of fields including freight forwarders, international shippers as well as domestic and foreign manufacturers captains of ships as well as large and small businesses attorneys as well as law enforcement officers and various U.S. federal agencies. They are employed at ports, airports, and land borders throughout Canada and the U.S. and Canada, and.

To be a qualified import specialist, you must to be an United States citizen with proof of residency. You must also have an undergraduate degree in Business, Economics or Accounting, as well as three years of experience in the field. You must be able to work independently as well in a group and be able to pass a drug test and background screening.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Import Specialist with 3-6 years of experience in the United States, your main responsibilities include:

  • Ensure compliance with import regulations, including documentation verification, tariff classification, and valuation assessment. Verify import documentation, determine the appropriate tariff classification for goods, and assess their value for customs purposes.
  • Coordinate with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and other stakeholders to facilitate the smooth flow of imports. Collaborate with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and related parties to ensure timely and efficient import processes.
  • Conduct risk assessments and implement strategies to mitigate import-related risks, such as customs delays and tariff changes. Evaluate potential import risks, such as customs delays and tariff fluctuations, and develop preventive measures to address them.
  • Stay updated on changes in import regulations, trade agreements, and customs procedures to ensure compliance and optimize import operations.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Import Specialist job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • In-depth knowledge of import regulations and customs procedures to ensure compliance with international trade laws and regulations.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in managing import documentation, including customs declarations, shipping manifests, and import licenses.
  • Proficiency in using import-related software and systems to facilitate smooth and efficient import operations.
  • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills to address any import-related issues, such as delays, customs inspections, or transportation problems.

Essential Skills For Import Specialist

1

International Law

2

Logistics Allocation

3

Shipment Tracking

4

Shipping Allotment

5

Logistic Planning

Career Prospects

The Import Specialist Job Role in the United States, with 3-6 years of work experience, offers various alternative roles worth considering. Here are following options to explore:

  • Customs Compliance Specialist: A role that focuses on ensuring compliance with import regulations and documentation requirements. This position involves monitoring processes, conducting audits, and maintaining accurate records.
  • Supply Chain Coordinator: A position that involves coordinating and optimizing the flow of goods from international suppliers to domestic distribution centers. Responsibilities include tracking shipments, managing inventory levels, and collaborating with internal teams and vendors.
  • International Trade Analyst: A role that involves analyzing trade patterns, market trends, and tariffs to inform import strategies and optimize supply chain operations. This position requires data analysis skills and knowledge of international trade policies.
  • Logistics Manager: A position focused on coordinating and overseeing the movement of goods from suppliers to customers.

How to Learn

The Import Specialist role in the United States is expected to witness significant growth in the market in the coming years, driven by increasing global trade. Over the past 10 years, this job has experienced a steady rise in demand due to expanding import-export activities. According to current trends and projections, the future looks promising for Import Specialists, with a surge in employment opportunities anticipated. With Google's latest data suggesting a steady rise in international trade volumes, it is expected that the demand for Import Specialists will continue to grow, providing a lucrative career path in the logistics and supply chain industry.