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Freight Trading Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Integr8staff

Trade Compliance Specialist

Brea, CA · On-site

Manage customs brokers and freight forwarders, including performance, resolution, and compliance ... S./Mexico trade activities and Mexico manufacturing operations. Analyze contracts, purchase orders ...

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Freight Trading information

What is freight trading?

Freight trading involves buying and selling contracts for the transportation of cargo, typically by sea, in order to manage or profit from fluctuations in shipping rates. Professionals in this field trade freight derivatives, such as Forward Freight Agreements (FFAs), to hedge risk or speculate on the future price movements of shipping costs. The job requires an understanding of global trade, shipping markets, and financial instruments. Freight traders often work for shipping companies, trading firms, or financial institutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freight trader?

To thrive as a Freight Trader, you need strong analytical skills, commercial acumen, and a deep understanding of shipping markets, often backed by a degree in business, economics, or logistics. Proficiency with trading platforms, freight management systems, and market data analysis tools is typically required. Excellent negotiation, communication, and decision-making abilities help build relationships and respond swiftly to market changes. These skills are crucial for optimizing trades, managing risks, and achieving profitability in a competitive global market.

What are some common challenges freight traders face when managing volatile market conditions?

Freight traders frequently encounter challenges such as rapidly changing shipping rates, fluctuating fuel costs, and unpredictable global events that impact supply and demand. Navigating these market volatilities requires quick decision-making, strong analytical skills, and proactive risk management strategies. Collaborating closely with analysts, brokers, and operations teams is essential to stay ahead of trends and minimize potential losses. Developing a deep understanding of market indicators and building a reliable professional network can help freight traders effectively manage these challenges and identify new opportunities.

What is the difference between Freight Trading vs Freight Brokerage?

AspectFreight TradingFreight Brokerage
CredentialsIndustry certifications, logistics knowledgeSimilar certifications, licensing often required
Work EnvironmentTrading floors, offices, online platformsOffice-based, client meetings, carrier interactions
Industry UsageFinancial trading of freight contractsConnecting shippers with carriers
Primary FocusBuying and selling freight capacity for profitFacilitating freight movement between shippers and carriers

Freight trading involves buying and selling freight capacity as a financial activity, focusing on market speculation and profit. In contrast, freight brokerage acts as an intermediary, connecting shippers with carriers to facilitate transportation. Both roles require industry knowledge and certifications but differ in their core functions and work environments.

What does a freight trader do?

A freight trader buys and sells transportation capacity, such as shipping space or freight services, to profit from market fluctuations. They analyze market trends, negotiate contracts, and manage logistics to optimize freight costs and revenue, often using industry tools and data analysis skills.

What are popular job titles related to Freight Trading jobs in California?

For Freight Trading jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freight Trading jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Freight Trading jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Freight Trading jobs?

Cities in California with the most Freight Trading job openings:

Freight Trading jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Trading job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Licensed Customs Broker - Freight Forwarding

Global Scouting Group

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking an experienced, licensed U.S. Customs Broker to join our team. In this role, you will manage all aspects of import/export customs clearance operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and serve as the primary point of contact for clients, carriers, and government agencies. This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented professional with deep knowledge of CBP regulations and international trade law.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

•        Prepare, review, and file import entries (formal and informal) including classification, valuation, and admissibility determinations

•        Manage customs clearance from origin to delivery, coordinating with freight forwarders, truckers, and warehouse partners

•        Ensure full compliance with CBP, FDA, USDA, FCC, and other Partner Government Agency (PGA) regulations

•        Communicate proactively with clients regarding shipment status, holds, exams, and duty liability

•        Classify goods using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and advise clients on duty-saving strategies (FTAs, bonded warehouses, TIBs, etc.)

•        Prepare and file protest filings, CF-28 responses, and prior disclosures as needed

•        Support export compliance including EAR, ITAR, and AES/EEI filings

•        Maintain accurate records in compliance with 19 CFR Part 163 recordkeeping requirements

•        Monitor regulatory updates and communicate relevant changes to internal teams and clients

•        Mentor junior brokers and compliance staff

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

•        Active U.S. Customs Broker License (required)

•        3+ years of experience in customs brokerage or trade compliance

•        Strong working knowledge of CBP regulations (19 CFR), HTS classification, and valuation

•        Experience with PGA requirements (FDA, USDA, EPA, CPSC, etc.)

•        Proficiency with customs entry software (e.g., ACE, CargoWise, Kustom, or similar)

•        Excellent written and verbal communication skills

•        Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

•        Experience with C-TPAT, ISF (10+2) filings, and bonded entry types

•        Knowledge of antidumping/countervailing duty (ADD/CVD) proceedings

•        Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or similar designation

•        Experience with free trade agreement qualification and origin determination

•        Prior experience at a CHB firm, freight forwarder, or large importer of record


Compensation: 95,000 - 125,000++ p.a. depending on experience