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Ocean Freight Forwarding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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This hands-on position requires strong Ocean freight forwarding knowledge, team leadership experience, and the ability to manage operational issues with limited oversight. Key Responsibilities:

Prior experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or a related field is preferred * Experience in ocean import and export is highly desirable * Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations ...

Prior experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or a related field is preferred * Experience in ocean import and export is highly desirable * Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations ...

Ocean Freight Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

$93K - $124K/yr

Ocean Freight Manager Job Location: Houston, TX Join our team as an Ocean Freight Manager and ... In this role, you will motivate and inspire a team of freight forwarding professionals, fostering a ...

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Ocean Freight Forwarding information

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$32.5K

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$66.5K

How much do ocean freight forwarding jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean freight forwarding 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 is ocean freight forwarding?

Ocean freight forwarding is a service provided by logistics companies that specialize in arranging the shipping of goods by sea on behalf of importers or exporters. Freight forwarders handle the logistics, documentation, booking of cargo space, and coordination with carriers to ensure goods are transported efficiently and in compliance with international regulations. They may also offer additional services such as customs clearance, cargo insurance, and warehousing, making the shipping process smoother and more reliable for businesses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ocean freight forwarder?

To thrive as an Ocean Freight Forwarder, you need a strong understanding of international shipping regulations, logistics coordination, and supply chain management, often supported by relevant certifications or experience in freight forwarding. Familiarity with freight management software, customs documentation systems, and tracking platforms is typically required. Outstanding organizational abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help professionals excel in managing complex shipments and client relationships. These skills ensure shipments move efficiently and compliantly across borders, minimizing delays and optimizing customer satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in ocean freight forwarding, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Ocean Freight Forwarding often deal with challenges such as managing complex international regulations, navigating delays due to port congestion or customs holds, and ensuring accurate documentation for shipments. Staying updated on regulatory changes, building strong relationships with carriers and customs brokers, and developing robust contingency plans can help mitigate these issues. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial for keeping shipments on track and maintaining client satisfaction.

What is the difference between Ocean Freight Forwarding vs Ocean Freight Operations Coordinator?

AspectOcean Freight ForwardingOcean Freight Operations Coordinator
CredentialsLogistics certifications, shipping knowledgeLogistics experience, coordination skills
Work EnvironmentFreight forwarding companies, shipping agenciesShipping lines, freight carriers, logistics firms
Employer & IndustryGlobal freight forwarding firmsShipping lines, carriers, logistics providers
Search & ComparisonOften compared for logistics planning rolesRelated but more operational focus

Ocean Freight Forwarding involves arranging the shipment of goods across oceans, handling documentation, and coordinating with carriers. Ocean Freight Operations Coordinators focus on managing daily shipping activities, tracking shipments, and ensuring smooth operations. Both roles require logistics knowledge but differ in scope: forwarding emphasizes planning and documentation, while coordinators focus on execution and tracking.

How to become an ocean freight forwarder?

To become an ocean freight forwarder, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of shipping regulations, logistics, and customs procedures. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining industry certifications, such as the Certified Export Specialist (CES), can improve job prospects. Strong organizational, communication, and computer skills are also important in this field.

Is ocean freight forwarding a good career?

Ocean freight forwarding is a viable career that involves coordinating the transportation of goods via sea routes, requiring knowledge of logistics, shipping regulations, and industry software. It offers opportunities for advancement and can be stable, especially with experience and relevant certifications. The job often involves problem-solving, communication skills, and working in a dynamic environment.

What cities are hiring for Ocean Freight Forwarding jobs?

Cities with the most Ocean Freight Forwarding job openings:

Infographic showing various Ocean Freight Forwarding job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $49,972 per year, or $24 per hour.

Sales Executive - Ocean Freight Forwarding

Irving, TX • On-site

TQL
Trucking • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Total Quality Logistics rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 116 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

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 winsWhat 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 trendsWhat 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 requiredWhere you'll be: 1320 Greenway Dr. Suite 300, Irving, TX 75038Employment 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.

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