ENVIRONMENT:Our client, a freight forwarding, customs clearing and supply chain company, is seeking a Junior Freight Forwarding Estimator to support the growth of its freight forwarding and customs clearing department. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates in accordance with the company’s international pricing and sourcing guidelines. This is an individual contributor role with no managerial responsibilities, requiring strong mathematical and analytical skills, computer literacy, an understanding of global shipping regulations and Incoterms, and excellent communication skills to liaise effectively with internal teams, customers and service providers.DUTIES:
Prepare accurate and comprehensive freight forwarding cost estimates using CargoWise, incorporating rates, operational costs, service provider quotations and relevant shipping details in accordance with company pricing guidelines and procedures.
Verify that all information received is complete and accurate, ensuring client requirements are fully understood before requesting rates or preparing estimates.
Submit rate requests to preferred service providers on the same day that complete estimate requests are received.
Review estimates for accuracy, completeness, pricing logic, commercial risks and alignment with client requirements.
Identify and communicate assumptions, exclusions and potential risks to clients, ensuring estimates are as accurate as the available information allows.
Submit all estimates to management for approval before issuing them to clients.
Maintain and update the Estimate Register daily, capturing shipment details, pricing, revenue, profit margins, quotation status and client feedback.
Monitor follow-up dates, contact clients promptly after quotations are submitted, record feedback and escalate overdue responses or repeated non-responsiveness.
Maintain regular communication with clients, provide updates on estimate requests and build strong client relationships.
Identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling by understanding client needs and proactively offering additional services.
Apply quality control procedures to every estimate before submission for approval and proactively investigate and resolve discrepancies.
Use company resources responsibly, minimise unnecessary expenditure and recommend practical cost-saving improvements.
Keep up to date with customs regulations, trade laws and industry developments.
Conduct all dealings with clients, service providers and agents ethically and in accordance with relevant legislation and company policies.
Escalate customs, tariff and regulatory queries to the General Manager.
Participate in structured training and mentoring to develop proficiency in CargoWise, estimating procedures and company rate structures.
Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent, with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy; Mathematics is preferred.
No previous estimating experience is required, as full training will be provided.
Exposure to freight forwarding, customs clearing, logistics, imports and exports, or internal sales will be advantageous.
A post-school qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Maritime Studies or a related commercial field will be beneficial.
Computer literacy, with a sound working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Outlook.
Strong mathematical and data analysis capabilities, which will be assessed during the selection process.
Full proficiency in written and spoken English.
A valid driver’s licence and own transport will be advantageous and will become a requirement when progressing into the sales role.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong mathematical, analytical and data interpretation skills.
Excellent organisational, administrative and time management abilities.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to investigate discrepancies.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
A team player who contributes positively to the working environment.
Client-focused, with an interest in building lasting relationships and pursuing a career in sales and client relationship management.
Able to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-performance environment where deadlines are critical.
Coachable, receptive to feedback and willing to learn a technical discipline from the ground up.
High levels of integrity, honesty and professionalism.
Desired Skills:
Junior
Freight
Forwarding