Job Description: Customs Team Leader (Sea Freight & Air Freight)
Customs Team Leader is responsible for supervising the customs clearance operations for both sea freight and air freight shipments. The role ensures full compliance with customs regulations, timely document processing, smooth coordination with internal teams, and efficient communication with external authorities such as customs, port authorities, airlines, and freight forwarders.
1. Customs Clearance Management
- Oversee and manage the end‑to‑end customs clearance process for sea and air shipments.
- Ensure all documentation Bill of Entry, HS codes, invoices, packing lists, permits is accurate and compliant.
- Verify correct duty/tax calculations and ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
- Monitor clearance status and expedite shipments when needed.
2. Team Leadership & Supervision
- Lead, guide, and support the customs documentation and operations team.
- Allocate daily tasks and ensure workload distribution for smooth operations.
- Provide training on customs procedures, updated regulations, and system requirements.
3. Coordination & Communication
- Liaise with customs authorities, port/airport operators, shipping lines, airlines, brokers, and internal departments.
- Coordinate with the operations, transport, and customer service teams to ensure fast cargo movement.
- Communicate regularly with clients and operations regarding clearance status and requirements.
4. Compliance & Regulatory Control
- Ensure compliance with customs laws, FTA regulations, DG requirements, and free zone procedures.
- Maintain accuracy in HS classification and ensure correct documentation for each shipment.
- Stay updated with changes in customs policies and share updates with the team.
5. Documentation & System Management
- Review and finalize Bill of Entry submissions for sea and air shipments.
- Ensure proper record-keeping and documentation filing for audits and compliance.
- Use customs systems (e.g., Mirsal II, Dubai Trade, E‑Cargo, Port Community Systems, Sharjah Seaports, and Customs) for all transactions.
6. Customs Exit Submission & Security Deposit Claims
- Ensure timely customs exit submissions for all shipments.
- Follow up on security deposit claims to avoid delays and prevent penalties or fines.
- Maintain accurate records to support audit and refund processes.
7. Performance & Process Improvement
- Monitor KPIs such as clearance time, accuracy, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
- Identify operational issues and implement process improvements to reduce delays and errors.
- Resolve escalation cases related to customs discrepancies or documentation issues.
8. Required Skills & Qualifications
- Strong knowledge of UAE customs processes (sea & air freight).
- Experience with HS code classification and duty/tax structures.
- Proficiency in Mirsal II, Dubai Trade, and similar systems.
- Minimum 3–5 years in customs operations; leadership experience preferred.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and coordination skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and handle time sensitive shipments.
