International Freight Forwarding Specialist Apprentice

Location: Basildon, Essex

Job Type: Full-Time Apprenticeship

Start Your Career in International Freight Forwarding

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join a well-established freight forwarding and logistics organisation as an International Freight Forwarding Specialist Apprentice.

This role offers the chance to gain hands-on experience across multiple areas of international logistics while working towards a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification. You will learn how global supply chains operate and develop valuable skills in freight forwarding, customs, customer service and international trade.

About the Role

As an apprentice, you will receive practical training and support across a variety of departments, gaining exposure to road, sea and air freight operations. You will work alongside experienced professionals and build the knowledge required for a successful long-term career within the logistics industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with international freight forwarding activities across road, sea and air freight.

   

• Support the coordination and movement of shipments throughout the supply chain.

   

• Communicate with customers, suppliers and overseas partners.

   

• Assist with the preparation and processing of freight documentation.

   

• Learn import and export procedures and associated administration.

   

• Develop an understanding of customs processes and international trade regulations.

   

• Support invoicing and general administrative duties.

   

• Maintain accurate records using operational systems.

   

• Assist with quotations and customer enquiries.

   

• Work closely with Customs, Finance, Operations and Customer Service teams.

   

• Identify opportunities to improve processes and efficiencies.

   

• Build strong working relationships across the business.

   

• Participate in departmental rotations to gain broad industry experience.

   

• Adhere to company procedures, policies and health & safety requirements.

   

Skills and Attributes Required

• Strong communication skills.

   

• Good organisational and time management abilities.

   

• Excellent attention to detail.

   

• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office.

   

• Ability to follow processes accurately.

   

• Strong customer service skills.

   

• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.

   

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

   

• Good problem-solving skills and a proactive approach.

   

Essential Qualifications

• Functional Skills Level 2 (or equivalent) in English and Maths.

   

Training and Development

The successful candidate will complete an International Freight Forwarding Specialist Level 3 Apprenticeship with a recognised training provider.

This structured programme combines practical workplace experience with formal learning, providing an excellent foundation for a career in freight forwarding and logistics.

Benefits

• Annual leave plus bank holidays.

   

• Additional holiday entitlement linked to length of service.

   

• Paid personal milestone day.

   

• Enhanced pension contributions.

   

• Annual pension and investment review.

   

• Death in Service benefit.

   

• Private Medical Insurance (subject to qualifying period and eligibility).

   

• Employee Assistance Programme.

   

• Employee discounts and benefits platform.

   

Career Progression

This apprenticeship offers genuine long-term career prospects. Successful completion may lead to a permanent position and further development opportunities within the business.

How to apply:

If you have relevant experience or you'd like to know more about this opportunity, please get in touch today.

E: shipping@redrecruit.com

T: 01376 503567 | 0203 906 6020

You can also refer someone suitable. If you know someone suitable, please share this advert or send us their details. *Successful referrals qualify for our candidate referral reward scheme.

Red Recruit specialise in Shipping, Freight & Logistics, Removals & Storage, Relocations and Fine Art recruitment, with opportunities across all levels. Not all roles are advertised, so feel free to send us your CV in confidence or call us directly.

Keywords / alternative titles:  Customs Clerk, Customs Clearance, Import/Export Customs Clearance, Roadfreight Customs Clerk, EU Roadfreight Clerk, Haulage, ETSF, CDS, ASM Sequoia.