Job Description Overview
A Shipping Coordinator is a key operations professional responsible for managing an organization's outgoing shipments, ensuring they are processed accurately, cost-effectively, and on time. While they share some similarities with Logistics Coordinators, Shipping Coordinators tend to have a more focused role on the execution of shipments, whereas Logistics Coordinators often oversee the broader supply chain, including procurement and route planning . The role is vital for maintaining customer satisfaction and profitability through efficient shipping practices .
Core Duties and Responsibilities
The day-to-day responsibilities of a Shipping Coordinator are diverse and can be adapted based on the industry and company. Common duties include:
Coordination and Documentation
- Scheduling carrier pickups and coordinating deliveries .
- Creating and processing essential shipping documentation, such as bills of lading (BOL), packing lists, customs forms, and export permits .
- Comparing packing lists with purchase orders to verify incoming and outgoing shipments .
- For international roles, ensuring compliance with export controls and preparing documentation like commercial invoices and certificates of origin .
Inventory and Problem-Solving
- Managing or collaborating with inventory teams to ensure adequate stock levels and process returns .
- Troubleshooting shipping issues and resolving customer complaints related to orders and deliveries .
- Monitoring shipping costs, reporting changes, and negotiating rates with carriers .
Communication and Leadership
- Serving as the primary point of contact for internal teams (sales, warehouse) and external parties (customers, carriers, freight forwarders) .
- Liaising with overseas agents and customs brokers for international shipments .
- Potentially managing a team of shipping clerks, which includes hiring, training, and scheduling .
Skills and Qualifications
Success as a Shipping Coordinator requires a blend of technical know-how, soft skills, and relevant experience.
Skill/Qualification
CategoryKey Requirements
Soft Skills Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills, with high attention to detail.
Hard Skills & Systems Proficiency with inventory management systems (WMS) and shipping software (e.g., UPS WorldShip). Experience with enterprise systems like SAP and Oracle is highly preferred.
Industry Knowledge Understanding of shipping practices, major carriers, customs requirements, and regulations like the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) or UCP600 for international trade.
Experience & Education Typically 1-3 years of experience in a shipping/logistics/warehouse role is required. A high school diploma is the minimum, though an associate's or bachelor's degree in supply chain management is often preferred.
Physical & Other Ability to stand for long periods, lift packages (often up to 50-70 lbs), operate a pallet jack, and work overtime or weekends as needed.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: €48,000.00 - €70,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
