Import Export Assistant

The Import/Exim Officer will be responsible for the seamless and compliant execution of all import logistics, customs clearance, and documentation processes. The primary goal is to ensure the timely and cost-effective arrival and clearance of materials and goods, maintaining strict adherence to all Customs laws, trade regulations, and company policies.

Key Responsibilities

1. Import Documentation and Processing

• Pre-Shipment: Verify and validate all commercial documents received from foreign suppliers (Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Test Certificates, etc.).
• Customs Filing: Coordinate with the Customs House Agent (CHA) for the accurate and timely filing of the Bill of Entry (BOE) via the Customs EDI system (ICEGATE).
• Classification: Accurately determine and confirm the HS Codes (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) for all imported goods to ensure correct duty assessment and compliance.
• Valuation: Ensure the correct assessment of transactional value for Customs duty calculation, adhering to Customs Valuation Rules.

2. Logistics and Clearance Management

• Shipment Tracking: Actively track and monitor the movement of all incoming shipments (ocean/air/road) from origin to destination port/warehouse.
• CHA Coordination: Manage and coordinate day-to-day operations with the CHA to ensure smooth and swift Customs clearance and delivery.
• Troubleshooting: Proactively resolve any issues or discrepancies that may lead to Customs holds, delays, or demurrage charges.
• Delivery Coordination: Arrange and finalize local transportation from the port/CFS/ICD to the company's warehouse, ensuring cost efficiency and delivery schedules are met.

3. Compliance and Regulatory Adherence

• Duty & Taxes: Ensure timely and accurate payment of Basic Customs Duty (BCD), Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST), Anti-Dumping Duty (ADD), and other applicable duties/cess.
• Licensing & Permits: Manage and maintain records for necessary import-related registrations and permits (e.g., Importer-Exporter Code (IEC), BIS, WPC, or other mandatory Product Group Agency (PGA) licenses).
• Record Keeping: Maintain meticulous digital and physical records of all Bills of Entry, duty receipts, and supporting documents as per Customs and company audit requirements.
• Audit Support: Assist in internal and external audits related to import compliance and Customs assessments.

4. Cost Management and Vendor Relations

• Freight Negotiation: Negotiate and finalize competitive rates with Freight Forwarders and shipping lines for inbound logistics.
• Cost Control: Monitor and analyze landed cost of imports, focusing on reducing detention, demurrage, and customs clearance charges.
• Vendor Management: Evaluate and manage the performance of the CHA, Freight Forwarders, and logistics vendors.

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree (B.Com/B.Sc) or Master's degree (MBA) in Supply Chain, International Trade, or Logistics.
• Experience: Minimum 3 years of dedicated experience in handling end-to-end import operations and Customs clearance.

Technical Knowledge (Mandatory):

• Expert knowledge of Customs Act & Rules and Indian Import Procedures.
• Strong practical experience with HS Code Classification and calculating Import Duty/GST.
• Familiarity with various Incoterms 2020 and their impact on imported goods.
• Proficiency with the ICEGATE and DGFT online portals.
• Software Proficiency: Proficient in MS Office (especially Excel for analysis) and experience with an ERP system (Tally) for import data entry.
• Competencies: High level of attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication (written and verbal) for liaising with suppliers, CHA, and internal teams.