Job brief
We are looking for a detail-oriented Shipping Coordinator to join our logistics team and take ownership of our daily distribution operations. In this role, you will be the bridge between our inventory control, warehouse staff, and external shipping partners to ensure every order arrives on time and within budget. You will leverage your expertise in logistics software to streamline our fulfillment workflows and directly impact our bottom line through improved operational efficiency. If you are a proactive problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced warehouse environment, we invite you to help us optimize our global shipping footprint.
Key highlights
- Manage the preparation of shipping manifests, Bills of Lading, and international export documentation to ensure 100% compliance with customs regulations.
- Coordinate daily pickups and deliveries with freight carriers, LTL/FTL providers, and international air/sea freight forwarders to meet customer deadlines.
- Execute inventory cycle counts and reconcile stock discrepancies within our SAP or Oracle ERP system to maintain high levels of inventory integrity.
- Analyze key logistics performance indicators (KPIs) to provide monthly reporting on shipping costs, carrier performance, and delivery on-time rates.
What is a Shipping Coordinator?
A Shipping Coordinator is a logistics professional dedicated to the accurate execution of outbound and inbound supply chain movements. Serving as a central point of contact for warehouse operations, they ensure that goods move through the distribution network efficiently while maintaining strict compliance with safety and shipping regulations. By utilizing sophisticated Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS), a Shipping Coordinator transforms complex logistics data into reliable delivery schedules that uphold company service level agreements.
What does a Shipping Coordinator do?
On a daily basis, a Shipping Coordinator prepares detailed shipping documentation such as Bills of Lading, packing slips, and hazardous material manifests for local and international freight. They communicate directly with third-party logistics (3PL) providers and trucking carriers to schedule pickups, troubleshoot shipment delays, and negotiate competitive freight rates to minimize costs. Beyond administrative tasks, they conduct inventory cycle counts, audit warehouse material handling processes, and analyze logistics performance metrics to identify and eliminate bottlenecks within the supply chain.
Key responsibilities
- Manage the preparation of shipping manifests, Bills of Lading, and international export documentation to ensure 100% compliance with customs regulations.
- Coordinate daily pickups and deliveries with freight carriers, LTL/FTL providers, and international air/sea freight forwarders to meet customer deadlines.
- Execute inventory cycle counts and reconcile stock discrepancies within our SAP or Oracle ERP system to maintain high levels of inventory integrity.
- Optimize load planning and container utilization to reduce overall shipping costs while maintaining high service levels for our B2B customers.
- Resolve complex logistics bottlenecks, such as damaged shipments or missed delivery windows, through effective vendor communication and root-cause analysis.
- Monitor real-time warehouse throughput and collaborate with floor supervisors to streamline picking, packing, and staging workflows for outbound freight.
- Analyze key logistics performance indicators (KPIs) to provide monthly reporting on shipping costs, carrier performance, and delivery on-time rates.
- Coordinate the receipt of raw materials and finished goods, ensuring all inbound shipments are inspected for quality and damage upon arrival.
Requirements and skills
- 3+ years of experience in shipping, logistics, or distribution coordination within a high-volume warehouse or manufacturing setting.
- Technical proficiency in WMS (e.g., Manhattan Associates, HighJump) and ERP platforms like NetSuite, SAP, or Microsoft Dynamics 365.
- Demonstrated knowledge of Incoterms, international customs requirements, and hazardous materials (HAZMAT) shipping regulations.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, including the use of VLOOKUPs and pivot tables to track carrier performance metrics.
- Ability to communicate complex logistical updates clearly to C-suite stakeholders, freight brokers, and front-line warehouse staff.
- Hold a valid APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) designation.
- Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a relevant operational field.
- Proven track record of managing competing priorities and resolving high-pressure shipment delays without sacrificing order accuracy.
FAQs
What does a Shipping Coordinator do?
A Shipping Coordinator oversees the entire lifecycle of a shipment, from initial order processing and load planning to final delivery confirmation. They handle the documentation necessary for freight transport, communicate with carriers and vendors, and ensure warehouse operations remain aligned with shipping timelines. Ultimately, they play a critical role in minimizing logistics costs and maximizing delivery speed.
What skills are important for a Shipping Coordinator?
Essential skills include proficiency in ERP and WMS software, high attention to detail regarding shipping documentation, and advanced knowledge of transportation regulations like Incoterms. Strong analytical capabilities are necessary for monitoring performance KPIs, while effective interpersonal skills are required to negotiate with carriers and solve shipment-related problems in real-time.
Who does a Shipping Coordinator work with?
They collaborate daily with internal departments like procurement, sales, and warehouse management to align inventory levels with outgoing orders. Externally, they act as the primary liaison between the company and freight carriers, 3PL providers, and international customs brokers to ensure the seamless flow of goods across the supply chain.
Why is a Shipping Coordinator important to a business?
A Shipping Coordinator is vital because they directly manage the organization’s distribution efficiency, which impacts both customer satisfaction and operational profitability. By reducing shipping errors, optimizing freight spending, and maintaining accurate inventory, they prevent costly delays and ensure the company remains competitive in a fast-paced market.