LCL Operations Agent SAI

We are looking for an LCL Operations Agent to join our team in Durban.

In this role, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end operational lifecycle of LCL import and export shipments, from booking through to final delivery and invoicing.

You will work closely with customers, shipping lines, transport providers, warehouses, customs brokers, co-loaders, overseas offices, and internal teams to ensure shipments move efficiently, accurately, and in line with customer expectations.

This is an operationally focused role where attention to detail, ownership, proactive communication, and strong freight-forwarding knowledge are essential to success.

Key Responsibilities

Shipment Coordination & Execution

• Manage LCL import and export shipments from booking through final delivery.
• Coordinate cargo collection, warehouse handling, consolidation, deconsolidation, customs release, and final distribution.
• Arrange bookings with shipping lines, co-loaders, transport providers, depots, and warehouses.
• Monitor shipment milestones and proactively track cargo movement.
• Identify potential delays or disruptions and take corrective action.
• Maintain accurate shipment updates in operational systems.
• Ensure shipments are executed in accordance with customer requirements and company standards.
  

Documentation & Compliance

• Prepare, review, and process operational and shipping documentation accurately and within required timelines.
• Manage documentation including Bills of Lading, Cargo Manifests, Shipping Instructions, Delivery Orders, Arrival Notices, and customs/regulatory documentation.
• Ensure compliance with local and international trade requirements.
• Maintain accurate shipment records and filing systems.
• Work with customs brokers and relevant authorities to facilitate smooth cargo clearance.
• Verify documentation to minimize delays, penalties, and service disruptions.
  

Customer Service & Stakeholder Management

• Act as a key operational contact throughout the shipment lifecycle.
• Provide proactive updates on shipment status, transit progress, delays, and delivery schedules.
• Respond to customer queries professionally and in a timely manner.
• Manage escalations and resolve operational issues effectively.
• Build strong relationships with customers and internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Customer Service, Sales, Finance, Compliance, and Customs teams.
  

Financial & Administrative Activities

• Verify supplier invoices and operational costs against agreed rates.
• Support accurate customer billing and revenue recognition.
• Ensure accurate shipment costing within operational systems.
• Maintain operational records and reports.
• Support KPI monitoring, performance analysis, and cost-control initiatives.
  

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, productivity, and service quality.
• Participate in operational reviews and improvement projects.
• Contribute to best practices within LCL operations.
• Promote a culture of accountability, operational excellence, and customer-centric service.
  

What We’re Looking For

The ideal candidate will bring:

• Strong knowledge of freight forwarding and LCL operations.
• Practical experience handling import and export shipments.
• Good understanding of shipping documentation, customs processes, and Incoterms.
• Experience with forwarding operations, shipment invoicing, and operational costing.
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills.
• A proactive, customer-focused approach.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Good computer literacy and experience using freight-forwarding systems.
• Qualifications & Experience