Logistics Manager

Description

The Logistics Manager is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day management of domestic and international transportation activities to ensure the efficient, compliant, and cost-effective movement of raw materials, finished goods, and customer shipments. This role oversees freight operations across all transportation modes, manages relationships with freight forwarders and carriers, ensures trade compliance through proper HTS classification, validates Advanced Shipping Notices (ASN), and audits freight invoices for accuracy. The Logistics Manager plays a critical role in supporting customer service, inventory accuracy, and supply chain performance.

PRIMARY DUTIES

Transportation & Freight Management

• Manage all domestic and international freight operations, including truckload (TL), less-than-truckload (LTL), ocean, air, parcel, and intermodal shipments.
• Develop and execute transportation strategies that optimize cost, service, and transit times.
• Coordinate inbound and outbound shipments to meet customer delivery requirements and production schedules.
• Monitor carrier performance, on-time delivery, freight claims, and service levels.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities to reduce freight costs and improve logistics efficiency.

International Logistics & Trade Compliance

• Manage international import and export shipments, ensuring compliance with applicable customs regulations and trade requirements.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for freight forwarders, customs brokers, and international carriers.
• Maintain and validate Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications for imported materials and products.
• Ensure accurate documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and shipping instructions.
• Monitor regulatory changes affecting international trade and customs compliance.

Freight Forwarder & Carrier Management

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with freight forwarders, brokers, and transportation providers.
• Negotiate rates, service agreements, and transportation contracts.
• Conduct periodic carrier performance reviews and identify alternative transportation solutions when necessary.
• Resolve shipment exceptions, delays, customs holds, and freight claims.

ASN Management & Shipping Accuracy

• Validate and monitor Advanced Shipping Notices (ASN) for accuracy and completeness.
• Ensure shipment data transmitted to customers and trading partners aligns with actual shipments.
• Collaborate with warehouse, customer service, and IT teams to resolve ASN discrepancies.
• Drive improvements in shipping accuracy and customer compliance metrics.

Freight Invoice Auditing & Cost Control

• Review and audit LTL, parcel, and freight invoices for billing accuracy.
• Validate freight charges against contracted rates and approved accessorial fees.
• Investigate and resolve billing discrepancies with carriers and freight providers.
• Monitor freight spend and provide regular reporting on transportation costs and savings opportunities.
• Support budgeting and forecasting activities related to logistics expenses.

Reporting & Performance Metrics

• Develop and maintain logistics KPIs, including:
• Freight cost per pound/unit shipped
• On-time delivery performance
• Carrier scorecards
• Freight claims performance
• ASN accuracy
• Customs compliance metrics
• Prepare monthly reports and presentations for leadership.
• Analyze transportation data to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities.

Foster Cooperation

• Actively engage with our National Accounts and Marketplace customers to address opportunity.
• Promote collaboration by actively sharing expertise and communicating.
• Responsible for corporate communication as it relates to logistics.
• Consistently and proactively involves all stakeholders in plans and decisions.

Requirements

SKILLSET/COMPENTENCIES REQUIREMENTS

Strong understanding of the following but not limited to:

• International shipping regulations
• Import/export compliance
• HTS classification requirements
• Customs documentation
• ASN processes and EDI transactions
• LTL and parcel freight rating structures

• Proficiency in ERP systems such as SAP.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management capabilities.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and reporting skills.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Apply AI/automation tools to transportation operations, including areas such as carrier management, freight optimization, and cost analysis

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• 7-10 years of experience in Logistics and/or Supply Chain management; experience managing logistics operations in Asia or with Asian-based suppliers, manufacturers, or distribution partners is preferred.
• Ability to work well independently with focus for results and accountability
• Excellent communication skills