Import Officer

Job summary

Our client is seeking to hire a Import & Customer Service Executive to manage freight quotation requests, provide timely and accurate pricing, support customer enquiries, and coordinate with carriers, agents, and internal teams to ensure a smooth process from quotation to shipment execution.

Min Qualification: HND Experience Level: Mid level Experience Length: 4 years Language Requirement: English Working Hours: Full Time - 8 to 5 Applicant Location: Lagos, Nigeria

Job descriptions & requirements

Responsibilities:

• Freight Pricing & Quotations
• Prepare accurate and competitive quotations for airfreight, seafreight, courier, and special cargo.
• Review shipment details including origin, destination, commodity, weight/volume, and Incoterms to determine appropriate pricing.
• Obtain and compare rates from carriers, agents, and overseas partners.
• Maintain updated freight rates, surcharges, and carrier tariffs.
• Ensure quotations comply with company pricing policies and applicable carrier rates.
• Negotiate with carriers and agents where necessary to secure competitive rates.

Customer Service & Communication:

• Respond promptly to customer quotation requests via email, telephone, CRM, or other communication channels.
• Provide customers with clear information on rates, service options, transit times, and shipment requirements.
• Follow up on quotations and support the conversion of opportunities into bookings.
• Maintain professional and responsive communication throughout the customer journey.
• Handle customer concerns relating to pricing, service options, and shipment requirements.

Coordination & Shipment Support:

• Liaise with the operations team to confirm the feasibility of quoted services.
• Coordinate with carriers, agents, and overseas partners regarding rates, schedules, and service availability.
• Support customers through the booking process following quotation acceptance.
• Provide customers with proactive updates on rate changes, seasonal surcharges, delays, or service disruptions.
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure a seamless transition from quotation to shipment execution.

Documentation & Data Management:

• Record quotations and customer information accurately in the company's system.
• Maintain organised and up-to-date rate sheets, tariffs, and pricing information.
• Ensure relevant import and shipment documentation is properly captured and maintained.
• Prepare quotation and customer service reports as required.

Performance & Compliance:

• Meet internal KPIs relating to quotation turnaround time, pricing accuracy, customer response, and conversion.
• Ensure compliance with applicable import, customs, and company requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve quotation processes and customer experience.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.

Requirements:

• 3–5 years of relevant professional experience in freight forwarding, logistics, import operations, freight pricing, or logistics customer service.
• Practical knowledge of airfreight and seafreight.
• Strong understanding of Incoterms and import processes.
• Demonstrated experience preparing and managing freight quotations.
• Familiarity with carrier and agent rates, surcharges, tariffs, and freight pricing structures.
• Good understanding of import documentation and customs processes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and numerical accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple quotation requests and priorities under pressure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook.
• Experience using logistics software, ERP systems, or CRM platforms is an advantage.
• Strong customer service, negotiation, coordination, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Attributes:

• Commercially aware with the ability to convert quotations into confirmed bookings.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build effective relationships with carriers, agents, and customers.
• Proactive and responsive in dealing with customers and service providers.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with operations and commercial teams.
• Strong understanding of the freight forwarding and international logistics environment.
• High level of professionalism, accountability, accuracy, and attention to detail.