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Ocean Freight Forwarder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freight Forwarder, Ocean Import

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20.50 - $24.75/hr

Freight Forwarder, Ocean Import Time Type: Full Time Summary A Freight Forwarder Ocean Import is responsible for managing the importation and exportation of goods by ocean, including all aspects of ...

Freight Forwarder - Ocean Import Time Type: Full Time Summary A Freight Forwarder Ocean Import is responsible for managing the importation and exportation of goods by ocean, including all aspects of ...

Freight Forwarder, Ocean Export

Houston, TX · On-site

$21.53 - $28.25/hr

Freight Forwarder, Ocean Export Time Type: Full Time Summary A Freight Forwarder Ocean Export is responsible for managing the exportation of goods by ocean, including all aspects of the logistics ...

Freight Forwarder - Ocean Import Time Type: Full Time Summary A Freight Forwarder Ocean Import is responsible for managing the importation and exportation of goods by ocean, including all aspects of ...

Freight Forwarder, Ocean Export

Houston, TX · On-site

$21.53 - $28.25/hr

Freight Forwarder, Ocean Export Time Type: Full Time Summary A Freight Forwarder Ocean Export is responsible for managing the exportation of goods by ocean, including all aspects of the logistics ...

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Ocean Freight Forwarder information

See salary details

$32.5K

$50K

$66.5K

How much do ocean freight forwarder jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean freight forwarder in the United States is $49,972.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $56,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Ocean Freight Forwarders?

Ocean Freight Forwarders are logistics professionals or companies that specialize in arranging the shipment of goods via ocean transport on behalf of importers and exporters. They act as intermediaries between shippers and various transportation services, handling tasks such as booking cargo space, preparing shipping and customs documents, and coordinating with carriers and port authorities. Their expertise ensures that goods are shipped efficiently, cost-effectively, and in compliance with international regulations. Ocean Freight Forwarders also provide guidance on shipping routes, freight rates, and insurance options, making them a vital part of the global supply chain.

What are the main challenges an Ocean Freight Forwarder faces when coordinating international shipments?

Ocean Freight Forwarders often encounter challenges such as managing complex customs regulations, ensuring accurate documentation, and dealing with delays due to weather or port congestion. Staying updated on changing international trade laws and maintaining clear communication with shipping lines, customers, and customs officials are crucial for smooth operations. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps in minimizing errors and ensuring shipments arrive on time.

What is the difference between Ocean Freight Forwarder vs Customs Broker?

AspectOcean Freight ForwarderCustoms Broker
CredentialsTypically requires freight forwarding certifications, logistics knowledgeRequires customs brokerage licenses, import/export regulations knowledge
Work EnvironmentLogistics companies, shipping ports, freight terminalsCustoms offices, import/export companies, ports
Industry UsageHandles entire shipping process from origin to destinationFocuses on clearing goods through customs

While both roles are vital in international shipping, an Ocean Freight Forwarder manages the overall transportation process, including booking cargo space and coordinating shipments. A Customs Broker specializes in clearing goods through customs, ensuring compliance with import/export regulations. Understanding these differences helps businesses choose the right partner for their shipping needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ocean Freight Forwarder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ocean Freight Forwarder, you need a solid understanding of global logistics, shipping regulations, and documentation requirements, usually supported by a relevant degree or experience in supply chain management. Familiarity with freight management systems, customs clearance platforms, and industry certifications like IATA or FIATA is valuable. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help in managing complex shipments and coordinating with multiple stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for ensuring timely, compliant, and cost-effective international cargo movement.
More about Ocean Freight Forwarder jobs
What cities are hiring for Ocean Freight Forwarder jobs? Cities with the most Ocean Freight Forwarder job openings:
What states have the most Ocean Freight Forwarder jobs? States with the most job openings for Ocean Freight Forwarder jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ocean Freight Forwarder job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 44% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,972 per year, or $24 per hour.
Sales Executive - Ocean Freight Forwarding

Sales Executive - Ocean Freight Forwarding

Total Quality Logistics

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Total Quality Logistics rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 115 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

313th of 355 rated logistics


Job description

General information
Country
USA
State
Texas
City
Houston
Descriptions & requirements
About the role:
As an Ocean Freight Forwarding Sales Executive for TQL Global, you will play a key role in expanding our international ocean freight forwarding business. This role is focused on developing new customer relationships and growing existing accounts by delivering customized FCL, LCL, and end-to-end international logistics solutions. You will work closely with TQL's extensive domestic sales network and global operations teams to identify shippers with international freight needs and position TQL Global as a strategic logistics partner. This is a unique opportunity to join one of the fastest-growing divisions within TQL and build a book of business in a high-growth global trade environment with high earning potential.
What's in it for you:
  • Competitive base salary
  • Uncapped commission opportunities
  • Advancement opportunities within structured career paths
  • Comprehensive benefits package
    • Health, dental and vision coverage
    • 401(k) with company match
    • Perks including employee discounts, financial wellness planning, tuition reimbursement and more
  • Certified Great Place to Work with 900+ lifetime workplace award wins

What you'll be doing:
  • Identify, pursue, and close new ocean freight forwarding opportunities within an assigned territory or vertical
  • Develop solutions for customers requiring FCL, LCL, drayage, transloading, customs brokerage, and door-to-door international logistics
  • Partner with TQL's domestic sales teams to uncover import/export opportunities within their customer base
  • Manage the full sales life cycle including prospecting, solution development, pricing strategy, contract negotiation, and account onboarding
  • Work with internal pricing, carrier management, and operations teams to develop competitive ocean freight proposals
  • Build relationships with importers, exporters, procurement leaders, and supply chain decision-makers
  • Represent TQL Global at industry events, trade shows, and customer meetings
  • Travel to meet customers and prospects regularly (approximately 25% travel)
  • Provide market intelligence on carrier capacity, ocean rates, port congestion, and global trade trends

What you need:
  • 2+ years of ocean freight forwarding experience required
  • Experience selling international ocean freight services (FCL/LCL) strongly preferred
  • Knowledge of global shipping lanes, ocean carriers, NVOCC operations, and international supply chains
  • Experience selling or coordinating drayage, customs brokerage, or international logistics solutions
  • Strong communication, negotiation, and consultative sales skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
  • Willingness to travel up to 25%
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)
  • Bachelor's degree preferred but not required

Where you'll be: 5005 Mitchelldale Street, Houston, Texas 77092
Employment visa sponsorship is unavailable for this position. Applicants requiring employment visa sponsorship now or in the future (e.g., F-1 STEM OPT, H-1B, TN, J1 etc.) will not be considered.
About Us
Total Quality Logistics (TQL) is one of the largest freight brokerage firms in the nation. TQL connects customers with truckload freight that needs to be moved with quality carriers who have the capacity to move it.
As a company that operates 24/7/365, TQL manages work-life balance with sales support teams that assist with accounting, and after hours calls and specific needs. At TQL, the opportunities are endless which means that there is room for career advancement and the ability to write your own paycheck.
What's your worth? Our open and transparent communication from management creates a successful work environment and custom career path for our employees. TQL is an industry-leader in the logistics industry with unlimited potential. Be a part of something big.
Total Quality Logistics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.
If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact recruiting at recruiting@tql.com

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