Senior Import / Export Freight Forwarder

Position Overview

We are a specialized time-critical event freight forwarding company based in Los Angeles, supporting live events, exhibitions, tours, and high-profile projects worldwide. We are seeking an experienced Senior Import / Export Freight Forwarder to manage complex international shipments where precision, speed, and compliance are critical. Location: Los Angeles, CA.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end import and export freight forwarding operations for time-critical and event-based shipments
• Coordinate international air, ocean, and ground transportation with carriers, agents, and vendors
• Prepare, review, and process all required shipping and customs documentation (commercial invoices, packing lists, AWBs, B/Ls, carnets, etc.)
• Ensure full compliance with U.S. Customs, CBP regulations, and international trade requirements
• Handle ATA Carnets and temporary import/export shipments for events, exhibitions, and tours
• Provide real-time shipment tracking, proactive issue resolution, and on-time delivery assurance
• Liaise directly with clients, overseas agents, customs brokers, and event site teams
• Troubleshoot customs delays, routing challenges, and last-minute changes with urgency and accuracy
• Mentor junior staff and support operational best practices
• Maintain accurate records and provide post-shipment reporting as required

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in international import/export freight forwarding
• Proven experience handling time-critical, event, or project cargo
• Strong working knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations and international trade compliance
• Hands-on experience with ATA Carnets and temporary imports/exports
• Proficiency in freight forwarding systems, documentation, and Microsoft Office
• Ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously under strict deadlines
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with live events, exhibitions, entertainment, or touring logistics
• Familiarity with Los Angeles ports and airports (LAX, LA/Long Beach)
• Customs Broker license or coursework (a plus, not required)

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health, dental, and vision benefits
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunity to work on high-profile, global events