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Import Agent Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Expeditors

Import Agent

Columbus, OH · On-site

Ocean Import Lead Agent, Supervisor and Manager Additional Information Expeditors offers excellent benefits: * Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Time * Health Plan: Medical * Life Insurance * Employee ...

Expeditors

Import Agent

Columbus, OH · On-site

Ocean Import Lead Agent, Supervisor and Manager Additional Information Expeditors offers excellent benefits: * Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Time * Health Plan: Medical * Life Insurance * Employee ...

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Import Agent information

What is an import agent?

Import agents are professionals or companies that facilitate the process of bringing goods from foreign countries into a local market. They act as intermediaries between international suppliers and local buyers, managing logistics, customs documentation, and compliance with import regulations. Import agents help streamline the import process, ensuring that shipments arrive efficiently and in accordance with legal requirements. Their role is critical for businesses seeking to source products globally while minimizing risks and delays.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an import agent?

To thrive as an Import Agent, you need strong knowledge of international trade regulations, shipping documentation, and logistics, often backed by experience in supply chain management or a related field. Familiarity with customs clearance systems, freight tracking software, and relevant certifications such as Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) is highly valuable. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing complex transactions and coordinating with global partners. These competencies ensure efficient import operations, regulatory compliance, and strong client relationships in a fast-paced environment.

What are some typical challenges import agents face when coordinating international shipments?

Import Agents often encounter challenges such as navigating complex customs regulations, managing documentation requirements, and addressing unexpected delays due to weather or port congestion. Staying updated with changing trade laws and maintaining clear communication with freight forwarders, carriers, and clients are essential for smooth operations. Proactively handling these challenges helps ensure shipments arrive on time and compliance is maintained, making adaptability and attention to detail key strengths in this role.

What is the difference between Import Agent vs Customs Broker?

AspectImport AgentCustoms Broker
CredentialsTypically requires knowledge of import regulations, sometimes certifications depending on regionRequires licensing and certification, often licensed customs broker exams
Work EnvironmentWorks with shipping companies, freight forwarders, and clients to coordinate importsHandles customs clearance, interacts with government agencies and importers
Employer & IndustryLogistics companies, import/export firms, freight forwardersCustoms agencies, import/export companies, freight forwarding firms

While both roles involve facilitating the import process, an Import Agent primarily coordinates shipments and liaises with clients, whereas a Customs Broker specializes in navigating customs regulations and ensuring compliance for clearance. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on credentials and responsibilities.

How do you become an import agent?

To become an import agent, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of international trade regulations, and strong organizational skills. Gaining experience in logistics, customs procedures, or supply chain management can be beneficial, and some roles may require familiarity with import/export software or certifications in trade compliance.

How much do import agents make?

Import agents typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of shipments handled. Some may earn commissions or bonuses based on the volume of imports managed or client relationships.

What are popular job titles related to Import Agent jobs in Ohio?

For Import Agent jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Import Agent jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Import Agent jobs in Ohio are:

Import Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Import Agent job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Import Agent

Expeditors Intl. of Washington

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Expeditors rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 366 rated logistics

Job description

Company Description

We take care of our employees, and they take care of our customers!

Become a member of a global community! The international logistics industry is an integral piece of the global trade puzzle; we make the world go round. Global supply chain management is what we do, and at the heart of Expeditors you will find professionalism, leadership, and a friendly environment, all of which foster an innovative, customer service-based approach to logistics. Expeditors is a global logistics company headquartered in Seattle, Washington. As a Fortune 500 company, we employ over 19,000 trained professionals in a worldwide network of over 350+ locations across six continents. Expeditors satisfies the increasingly sophisticated needs of international trade through customized solutions and seamless, integrated information systems.

Our Mission

We recruit, train, and retain the very best logistics and technical experts the world over. We love to promote from within - more than 50 percent of our employees have been at Expeditors for five years or more. Our high retention rate is influenced by a unique compensation program for positions that are more than just jobs - they're chances to grow, do what you love and build a career with us!

Job Description

Scope of Position

Ensure timely and accurate movement of freight and information, while providing exceptional customer service within the Import Department.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operations/Industry Knowledge
  • Customer Service
  • Vendor Relations
  • Procedure and Productivity Standards Adherence?
  • Accounting
  • Accurate and Timely Billing
  • Self Development
  • Understand department process flow, looking for best practices to improve operational efficiency and productivity
  • Overseas communications, timely responses to emails and requests (internal and external)
  • Escalation of problems to Management when necessary

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Qualifications

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  • Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • 6 months experience in Ocean Import
  • Effective interpersonal skills.?
  • Good computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Attention to Detail
  • Fluent in English

Reporting Structure

  • Ocean Import Lead Agent, Supervisor and Manager
Additional Information

Expeditors offers excellent benefits:

  • Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Time
  • Health Plan: Medical
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Training and Personnel Development Program
  • Growth opportunities within the company
  • Employee Referral Program Bonus

What Expeditors employees say

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