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Customs Entry Clerk

Empire HR Solutions
1 hour ago
Full-time
On-site
South Africa
🛂 Customs Broker & Entry Writer

Introduction

A well-established freight forwarding and customs clearing organisation is seeking an experienced Customs Entry Clerk to join their customs team in Cape Town.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the accurate and timeous preparation and processing of import and export customs entries, ensuring compliance with SARS customs requirements, client instructions and internal procedures.

This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented customs professional with strong knowledge of tariff classification, customs documentation, EDI entries and customs compliance.

The Customs Entry Clerk will work closely with Import and Export Controllers, Finance, clients and internal customs teams to ensure that all information required for customs submissions is accurate, complete and compliant before entries are processed.

The role requires excellent attention to detail, strong organisational skills and a solid understanding of customs clearing procedures and documentation.

 

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Check import and export controller registrations and identify missing or incorrect information.
  • Ensure bills of entry are processed accurately and within the required turnaround times.
  • Review supporting documentation and registrations before processing entries.
  • Maintain records of files sent for entry and reasons for outstanding or delayed processing.
  • Follow up with controllers regarding outstanding information and documentation.
  • Provide controllers and finance teams with clearing instruction requirements.
  • Process customs submissions only once all required checks, approvals and financial permissions have been obtained.
  • Notify controllers when entries are ready for cash payment or when entries are placed on query.
  • Escalate customs-related queries and issues where necessary.
  • Draft and process import and export bills of entry across various entry types.
  • Assist with tariff classification and HS code verification.
  • Maintain a client parts and HS code library.
  • Process VOCs and provisional payments as required.
  • Maintain accurate records and follow up on the liquidation of provisional payments.
  • Maintain rebate permit usage records and monitor applicable limits.
  • Maintain import permit records and monitor relevant limits and cut-off dates.
  • Communicate with clients regarding rebate permits, import permits and customs requirements where required.
  • Monitor tariff updates and regulatory changes.
  • Review tariff updates against relevant system reports and notify the Team Leader of changes affecting rates of duty or regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain updated SARS and OGA regulatory information and customs contact details.
  • Ensure all customs documentation is properly maintained and accessible for future reference.
  • Work closely with Controllers, Finance and other internal departments to ensure efficient customs clearance.
  • Ensure all work is completed accurately and in accordance with customs legislation and company procedures.

Desired Experience & Qualification

  • Grade 12 / Matric is essential.
  • A relevant Customs Compliance, Freight Forwarding, Clearing & Forwarding or Logistics qualification will be advantageous.
  • Relevant customs training or certification will be advantageous.

EXPERIENCE & KNOWLEDGE

  • Previous experience as a Customs Entry Clerk / Customs Entry Controller within the freight forwarding industry is essential.
  • Strong understanding of SARS customs procedures and requirements.
  • Good knowledge of Incoterms and their application to customs bills of entry.
  • Understanding of tariff classification and HS codes.
  • Ability to use and interpret the SARS Customs Tariff Book.
  • Understanding of WCO notes and prohibited/restricted goods requirements.
  • Knowledge of the deferred payment system and applicable pay codes.
  • Understanding of customs escalation procedures.
  • Experience drafting and processing import and export bills of entry.
  • Exposure to entry types including DP, IR, GR, WH, XDP, XIR, XGR, VOCs, RIB and RIT will be highly advantageous.
  • Knowledge of clearing and shipping instructions.
  • Experience with EDI refunds and VOC applications.
  • Understanding of customs requirements relating to SOB dates, commercial invoices, packing lists and preference certificates.
  • Ability to read and interpret ocean bills of lading, house bills of lading and arrival notifications.
  • Experience with Shipshape, particularly the B/E Manager, will be highly advantageous.

SYSTEMS & TECHNICAL SKILLS

  • Strong Microsoft Office skills.
  • Proficient in MS Word, Excel, Teams and Outlook.
  • Experience with Shipshape or a similar customs/freight forwarding system.
  • Strong data capturing and record-keeping abilities.
  • Ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date customs and client records.

Package & Remuneration

Negotiable

Interested?