Customs Entry Clerk for Freight Forwarding in Cape Town
Empire HR Solutions · Cape Town, Western Cape
Overview
A well established freight forwarding and customs clearing company in Cape Town is looking for an experienced Customs Entry Clerk. If you have 3 to 5 years of experience in import and export customs entries, know SARS regulations well, and want to join a supportive customs clearing team, this permanent role could be a great fit. You will work on tariff classification, EDI submissions, and customs documentation in a fast paced environment that values accuracy and compliance.
About the role
As a Customs Entry Clerk, you will be responsible for preparing, processing, and submitting import and export customs entries accurately and on time. You will work closely with Import and Export Controllers, Finance, clients, and the internal customs team to make sure all documentation is complete and compliant before submission to SARS.
Key duties include:
- Capturing and processing customs declarations using electronic clearing systems and EDI platforms.
- Verifying commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, airway bills, and other shipping documents.
- Ensuring correct tariff classification and allocation of HS codes.
- Checking customs values, duties, VAT, and other charges.
- Handling customs amendments and corrections.
- Resolving customs queries, stops, and document requests from SARS.
- Liaising with clients and internal teams to resolve customs related delays.
Application note: No specific application instructions were provided. Prepare your CV and supporting documents for a standard online application.
Requirements
- Matric / Grade 12.
- A qualification in Customs Clearing, Freight Forwarding, Logistics, or International Trade is advantageous.
- Minimum 3 to 5 years of experience as a Customs Entry Clerk in a freight forwarding or customs clearing environment.
- Proven experience preparing and processing import and export customs entries.
- Strong working knowledge of SARS customs procedures and regulations.
- Sound understanding of tariff classification, HS codes, and customs valuation.
- Experience with EDI customs submissions and electronic clearing systems.
- Knowledge of customs duties, VAT calculations, and import/export documentation.
- Experience with customs clearing software such as CargoWise, ShipShape, or similar is advantageous.
- Good computer literacy, including Microsoft Office.
- Experience handling customs queries, stops, and releases is advantageous.
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
- Excellent problem solving and analytical abilities.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
Responsibilities
- Prepare, process, and submit import and export customs entries accurately and within deadlines.
- Capture and process customs declarations using electronic customs clearing systems and EDI platforms.
- Ensure all customs entries comply with SARS regulations and applicable customs legislation.
- Verify commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, airway bills, and other shipping documentation.
- Ensure correct tariff classification and allocation of HS codes.
- Check customs values, duties, VAT, and other applicable charges.
- Process customs amendments, corrections, and cancellations when required.
- Maintain accurate records of all customs entries and supporting documentation.
- Assist with SARS customs queries, inspections, stops, and document requests.
- Keep updated on changes to customs tariffs, legislation, and clearing procedures.
- Liaise with Import and Export Controllers to ensure timely processing of shipments.
- Communicate with clients regarding outstanding customs documentation and clearing requirements.
- Monitor customs entry statuses and follow up on outstanding releases.
- Escalate customs delays, discrepancies, and compliance concerns to management.
- Provide administrative support to the customs clearing team.
Job details
- Organisation
- Empire HR Solutions
- Location
- Cape Town, Western Cape
- Job type
- Full time
- Experience level
- Mid (3+ years)
- Education
- Matric
- Category
- Logistics & Supply Chain
- Application Method
- Apply manually
Success Guide
If you are applying for this Customs Entry Clerk role, your CV should clearly show your hands on experience with import and export customs entries, tariff classification, and SARS procedures. Since the listing asks for 3 to 5 years of experience, use your work history to highlight specific examples of customs entries you have processed, systems you have used like CargoWise or ShipShape, and how you have handled SARS queries or stops. In an interview, expect questions about customs valuation, HS codes, and how you stay updated with changing legislation. Show that you are accurate under pressure and comfortable working with tight deadlines. Make sure your Matric certificate is ready to attach. Good luck!
How we help you prepare
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