Customs Coordinator

Reports To:
Branch Manager

Location:
Vancouver, BC

Position Summary

The Customs Coordinator is responsible for managing the end-to-end customs clearance process, ensuring compliance with Canadian regulations, and delivering exceptional customer service. This role involves close collaboration with clients, carriers, government agencies, and internal teams to ensure shipments are processed efficiently, accurately, and in a timely manner. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to resolve challenges in a fast-paced logistics environment.

Key Responsibilities

Customs Clearance & Compliance

• Review, prepare, and process customs release entries for all modes of transport (truck, ocean, air, courier).
• Analyze import/export documentation to determine correct tariff classifications, duties, taxes, and other regulatory requirements.
• Ensure compliance with Canadian Customs (CBSA) and other government agency regulations, including OGD (Other Government Department) requirements.
• Monitor and resolve documentation discrepancies, working with clients, carriers, and government agencies to ensure timely resolution.
• Stay current with changes to customs regulations, tariff schedules, and trade compliance requirements.

Client Service & Communication

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients regarding customs clearance inquiries.
• Provide professional, clear, and proactive communication to clients on entry status, delivery timelines, and compliance requirements.
• Establish and maintain strong client relationships while ensuring a high standard of customer satisfaction.
• Advise clients on import/export regulations, documentation requirements, and tariff implications.

Documentation & Data Management

• Collect, review, and verify supporting documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and permits.
• Maintain accurate entry data in customs software systems (experience with CargoWise, ITMr4, CANdata, or similar is an asset).
• Track and update milestones and notes in internal systems for each file, ensuring audit readiness.
• Prepare reports and analyses on customs activity as required.

Coordination & Problem Solving

• Coordinate with carriers, warehouses, and domestic/international offices to ensure timely freight delivery.
• Handle escalations and complex issues professionally, providing solutions to clients and management.
• Assist in reconciling finance and accounting discrepancies related to customs billing.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives in customs operations and process efficiency.

Other Duties

• Perform other related tasks and duties ancillary to the job function as may be assigned by the Manager, in line with business needs.

Qualifications & Skills

• Minimum 3 years of experience in customs clearance, brokerage, or logistics (Highway, Ocean, Air).
• Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) designation preferred
• Strong knowledge of Canadian Customs regulations, HS tariff classification, INCO terms, and trade compliance.
• Familiarity with U.S. Customs procedures and cross-border clearance an asset.
• Proficiency in customs/brokerage systems such as CargoWise, ITMr4, or CANdata.
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), Google Suite, and database tools.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written), with the ability to handle client interactions professionally.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a deadline-driven environment.
• Proactive problem-solver with sound judgment and analytical thinking.

Why Join Hemisphere Brokerage?

• Opportunity to grow in a supportive, fast-paced logistics environment.
• Exposure to diverse international trade and customs operations.
• Professional development support
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.