About the Company
Forwardnow LLC is a rapidly growing leader in global freight forwarding, committed to delivering exceptional logistics services to our diverse customer base. We pride ourselves on fostering an environment that values innovation, professionalism, and collaboration. As part of our expansion, we are seeking a skilled Import Trade Operations Specialist to join our dedicated team. This position is pivotal in managing the importation of goods across ocean, air, and road transport, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations and seamless operations from origin to destination.
About the Role
As an Import Operations Specialist at ForwardNow, you will play a key role in supporting the daily execution and compliance of our import activities, with a primary focus on U.S. customs regulations. Reporting to the Director of International Operations, you will help ensure timely and compliant entry processing, support HTS classification accuracy, and maintain proper documentation and internal controls. This hands-on role is ideal for a detail-oriented individual with a strong foundation in customs procedures, HTS classification, and import documentation. You will work cross-functionally with procurement, operations, and finance teams to ensure smooth trade flows and regulatory compliance.
Responsibilities
- Handle and oversee day-to-day import operations, including coordination with freight operations, and internal stakeholders
- Support timely and accurate entry filings, ensuring all documentation meets U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements
- Assist in HTS classification, country of origin determination, and proper valuation of goods under U.S. Customs rules
- Coordinate with freight and warehouse teams to ensure efficient cargo release, entry clearance, and resolution of customs or carrier-related issues
- Monitor shipment entries for holds, compliance flags, and discrepancies; take corrective actions as needed
- Maintain and update standard operating procedures (SOPs); support the development of internal controls and compliance metrics
- Assist in post-entry processes, including Post Summary Corrections (PSC) and duty reconciliation
- Stay informed on evolving U.S. import regulations, including trade remedies
- Collaborate with procurement, logistics, and finance teams to raise awareness of import procedures and support cross-functional compliance
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in international business, Supply Chain, or a related field
- 2–4 years of experience in U.S. import operations, customs brokerage, or trade compliance
- Solid understanding of U.S. Customs procedures, including HTS classification and valuation methods
- Experience working with broker portals and trade compliance tools (e.g., ACE, CARM, Descartes)
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage time-sensitive tasks
- Proficiency in Excel and ability to work with large data sets for reporting and audit purposes
Required Skills
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
- Ability to work cross-functionally
- Strong analytical skills
- Excellent communication skills
Preferred Skills
- Prior experience in logistics, freight forwarding, or the supply chain industry
- Familiarity with import audit preparation and internal control development