16 Import Specialist Skills for Your Career and Resume

Import specialists are responsible for ensuring that imported goods meet all applicable laws and regulations. They have a wide range of skills that allow them to perform their duties effectively, including knowledge of import regulations, customs procedures and international trade law. If you’re interested in a career as an import specialist, learning about these skills can help you understand what the job entails and how to best prepare for it.

AES Filing

As an import specialist, you may be responsible for filing paperwork and documents related to the products your company imports. This includes information about the product’s origin, shipping details and other data that can help you track shipments and verify authenticity. Having a strong organizational skill set is important in this role so you can keep all of your files organized and easily accessible when needed.

Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. As an import specialist, you may need to change your schedule or work with different suppliers depending on what’s available in stock. You can also use flexibility when working with customers who have special requests or unique needs. For example, if a customer wants to purchase several items that are out of stock, you can offer them similar products and let them know when the original item will be back in stock.

Problem Solving Skills

Problem solving skills are necessary for import specialists to resolve issues with customers. Customers may have questions about the products they ordered or need help resolving an issue with their credit card company. It’s important for import specialists to be able to explain how a product works and provide solutions to customer concerns.

Incoterms

Incoterms are a set of rules that govern how buyers and sellers agree to the terms of their transactions. They can help you understand what your customers expect from you, which may allow you to provide them with more accurate estimates for delivery times and shipping costs. You can also use incoterms when negotiating contracts with suppliers in other countries.

HTS Classification

Hiring managers often look for candidates with knowledge of the Harmonized Tariff System, which is a system used by the United States to classify imported goods. This classification system can be complex and requires extensive training to understand. Having this skill demonstrates your ability to learn new information quickly and shows that you are capable of performing duties accurately.

Organization

Organization is the ability to keep track of multiple tasks and responsibilities. As an import specialist, you may need to manage several projects at once or handle a large number of incoming shipments. Having strong organizational skills can help you stay on top of your work and ensure that all orders are filled correctly. It’s also important to be organized when storing inventory so you know where each product is located. This ensures you can quickly find items for customers who place orders.

Communication

Communication is the ability to convey information clearly and concisely. As an import specialist, you may need to communicate with suppliers in another country or region, so it’s important that you can relay messages effectively. You also might be responsible for communicating product details to customers, so it’s important that you can explain technical aspects of a product in layman’s terms.

C-TPAT

C-TPAT is a compliance standard for companies that handle or store chemicals. It requires you to have an emergency response plan, security measures and other safety protocols in place. You can use your knowledge of C-TPAT to help your company meet its obligations and stay compliant with regulations. Your ability to understand the standards and implement them can also help you advance in your career.

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is the ability to notice small details and make adjustments accordingly. As an import specialist, you may need to examine products closely to ensure they meet quality standards or that they are authentic. You also may need to check product information for accuracy and verify customer information before shipping orders. This skill can help you provide excellent service to customers and reduce the risk of errors in your work.

Logistics

Logistics is the process of planning and executing a series of tasks to complete an objective. As an import specialist, you may need to manage your company’s supply chain, which includes tracking shipments from overseas, ensuring that products are delivered on time and coordinating with other departments to ensure that all incoming goods are stored properly. Having strong logistics skills can help you be successful in this role because it requires attention to detail and organizational abilities.

Supply Chain Management

Supply chain management is the ability to manage a company’s supply of materials and products. This includes knowing how much inventory a business needs, where it should store its supplies and what suppliers are best for meeting those needs. Supply chain management also involves managing the flow of goods from supplier to storage and then to customer. It’s important for import specialists to have strong supply chain skills because they often need to track incoming shipments and ensure that their warehouses have enough stock to meet customer demand.

Time Management

Time management is the ability to plan and execute tasks in a way that ensures you meet deadlines. As an import specialist, it’s important to manage your time well so you can complete all of your duties on time. For example, if you have a shipment arriving at noon, you may need to start preparing for it early in the morning so you can ensure the paperwork is ready by the time the truck arrives.

IncoTerms

IncoTerms are industry-specific terms that help you communicate with customers and suppliers. For example, if a customer asks for “grade A” products, you can explain what this means in your field. Similarly, when ordering materials, it’s important to know the proper names of each product so you can find them quickly.

Customs Regulations

Customs regulations are the laws that govern how goods enter a country. Customs regulations can vary by country, so it’s important for import specialists to be knowledgeable about customs rules in their destination countries. This ensures they know what paperwork is necessary and which duties may apply to shipments. It also helps them determine if incoming shipments meet all regulatory requirements before accepting deliveries.

International Shipping

International shipping is the process of moving goods from one country to another. As an import specialist, you may need to know how to handle international shipments and ensure they arrive safely at their destination. This can include knowing which customs forms are necessary for each shipment, understanding what documentation is needed by customs officials in other countries and ensuring that all required paperwork is filled out correctly.

Freight Forwarding

Freight forwarding is the process of moving goods from one location to another. As an import specialist, you may need to know how to forward freight so that your company can receive their shipments. You also may be responsible for ensuring that the freight arrives at its destination safely and on time. This requires knowledge of shipping methods, regulations and documentation.

How Can I Learn These Import Specialist Skills?

There are a few ways that you can learn the skills necessary to become an Import Specialist. One way is to find a job in the field and learn through on-the-job training. Another way is to take courses offered by companies that specialize in import/export. Finally, you can read books or articles on the subject matter to learn more about the skills necessary to become an Import Specialist.