Customs & Compliance Manager- Imports

Position Title: Customs & Compliance Manager- Imports

Salary- INR 35,000 - INR 50,000

Position Summary:

The Import Customs Manager will be responsible for managing and overseeing all import customs clearance activities for Household Goods (HHG) shipments into India. This role requires expertise in Indian customs regulations, E-SCMTR split manifestation, ICEGATE filings, and liaison with customs authorities to ensure timely, compliant, and cost-effective clearance. The candidate should be well-versed in documentation, tariff classification, duty assessment, and handling both diplomatic and commercial HHG shipments.

Key Responsibilities:

Customs Documentation & Compliance

• Prepare, review, and submit all import customs documentation for HHG shipments in compliance with Indian Customs regulations and company SOPs.
• Perform split manifestation on the E-SCMTR portal accurately and in a timely manner.
• File Bill of Entry and related forms via ICEGATE.
• Ensure correct HS code classification, duty exemption eligibility (where applicable), and valuation in line with customs guidelines.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of customs laws, changes in tariffs, exemptions, and notifications relevant to HHG imports.
• Liaise with customs brokers, port authorities, shipping lines, and government bodies to resolve clearance issues.

Operational Management

• Track incoming shipments and plan clearance activities to avoid demurrage and detention charges.
• Coordinate with warehouse and transport teams for post-clearance delivery scheduling.
• Manage clearance timelines for diplomatic, returning Indian nationals, and expatriate moves.
• Monitor and ensure timely payment of customs duties through authorized channels.

Vendor & Stakeholder Coordination

• Work closely with freight forwarders, CHA (Customs House Agents), and port/ICD personnel.
• Maintain good working relationships with customs officers to facilitate smooth inspections and processes.
• Coordinate with clients or their representatives to obtain required documents in advance.

Compliance & Record Keeping

• Maintain complete records of all customs filings, acknowledgments, and supporting documents for audit readiness.
• Implement internal controls to prevent non-compliance or financial leakage.
• Ensure zero tolerance for unofficial payments and follow ethical clearance practices.

Reporting & Analysis

• Provide daily/weekly updates to management on clearance status.
• Prepare MIS reports on customs activities, clearance timelines, and cost efficiency.
• Identify recurring issues and propose process improvements.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelors degree in Commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, or related field (preferred).
• Minimum 57 years' experience in import customs clearance of HHG shipments in India.
• Strong knowledge of E-SCMTR split manifestation process and ICEGATE filing.
• In-depth understanding of Indian Customs Tariff, Baggage Rules, Transfer of Residence provisions, and DGFT guidelines.
• Proficiency in MS Office, ICEGATE portal, E-Sanchit, and other customs-related systems.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to handle pressure, meet deadlines, and manage multiple clearances simultaneously.
• Ethical, detail-oriented, and highly organized.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to travel to ports/ICDs when required.
• Ability to work flexible hours based on shipment arrival schedules.
• Strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to customs challenges.