Logistics Handling Operations Operator South Africa

CEVA Logistics provides global supply chain solutions to connect people, products and providers all around the world. Present in 170 countries and with more than 110,000 employees spread over 1,500 sites, we are well on our way to achieving our vision: to be a Top 5 global 3PL.

We believe that our employees are the key to our success. We want to engage and empower our diverse, global team to co-create value with our customers through our solutions in contract logistics and air, ocean, ground, and finished vehicle transport. That is why CEVA Logistics offers a dynamic and exceptional work environment that fosters personal growth, innovation, and continuous improvement.

DARE TO GROW! Join CEVA Logistics, and you will be part of a team that values imagination, encourages boldness and exemplarity, and is committed to excellence in everything we do. Join us in our mission to shape the future of global logistics as we become a global leader in the logistics industry. As we continue growing at a fast pace, will you “Dare to Grow” with us?

OCEAN IMPORTS CONTROLLER - SOUTH AFRICA

YOUR ROLE

Do you have a strong passion for end-to-end ocean freight operations and delivering seamless import solutions in a fast-paced global logistics environment? CEVA Logistics is seeking an experienced Ocean Imports Controller to manage and coordinate the full lifecycle of ocean import shipments in Durban. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented logistics professional who thrives in client-facing operations, shipment execution, customs coordination, and delivering high-quality service across the international supply chain.

WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?

Shipment Coordination & File Management:

• Receive and track purchase orders with CEVA origin offices or appointed agents
• Create import shipments in the source system (ISA/manual entry) and maintain accurate shipment files
• Prepare hardcopy and electronic shipment folders for end-to-end visibility
• Ensure all operational milestones are updated timeously in Matrix OFS and Navigator systems
•  

Pre-Arrival Planning & Documentation Control:

• Ensure all required shipping documents (waybills, manifests, invoices, packing lists) are received from origin and/or client
• Verify accuracy of all shipment documentation before vessel arrival
• Update ETA and send arrival notices to consignees
• Request and confirm carrier/NVOCC details and align buy/sell rates with CEVA policies
• Upload commercial invoices and supporting documents into designated systems

Customs & Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure strict compliance with customs clearance requirements and formalities
• Report manifest to customs 96 hours prior to vessel arrival via Cargowise RCG
• Submit Advanced Loading Notices (ALN) to South African Customs within required timeframes
• Confirm responsibility for customs clearance and forward documentation to 3rd party brokers or internal teams
• Ensure all required supporting documents (EUR1, Certificates of Origin, etc.) are submitted correctly
•  

Clearance & Cargo Release Management:

• Submit completed clearing checklists to the entries department for customs clearance
• Receive customs release and clearance confirmations
• Coordinate cargo release with carriers/NVOCCs upon customs approval
• Obtain delivery orders and manage freight release requirements with carriers

Costing, Billing & Financial Control:

• Ensure accurate invoicing in line with customer proposals and global tariffs
• Process third-party payments and manage shipment-related charges
• Accurately capture accruals in system aligned to buy rates
• Invoice shipments on time in line with global KPIs
• Verify and confirm rates before invoice and costing sheet preparation

Delivery Planning & Execution:

• Plan and arrange delivery of shipments to CEVA warehouse or direct to consignee
• Create transport orders and ensure correct billing to customers
• Release delivery orders for self-pickup and obtain POD after delivery completion
• Upload signed PODs and shipment documents into ONEScan system

Customer Service & Communication:

• Provide continuous updates to internal and external stakeholders on shipment progress
• Liaise with customers, carriers, and suppliers in a professional and timely manner
• Handle customer queries, invoice disputes, and operational variances
• Attend customer visits with Key Account Managers when required

Exception Handling & Compliance Support:

• Manage shipment stops involving NRCS, Customs, Port Health, Border Police, and other authorities
• Obtain urgent releases from relevant authorities to minimise delays and costs
• Notify clients immediately of any shipment holds or compliance issues
• Support resolution of insurance claims and operational exceptions

Operational Excellence & Administration:

• Close operational files and ensure full documentation compliance
• Ensure adherence to ISO, HSO, and CEVA operational standards
• Participate in shift handovers and ensure accurate recording of operational updates
• Support continuous improvement and maintain KPI compliance across all milestones

 WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Education and Experience:

• Matric / Grade 12 or equivalent
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in ocean import operations
• Experience within supply chain management or freight forwarding environment required

Skills:

• Strong understanding of ocean import processes and international shipping operations
• Good knowledge of Incoterms
• Strong understanding of customs clearance procedures and regulatory requirements
• Experience in costing and invoicing of shipments
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical / healthcare import requirements (permits, LOAs, etc.) advantageous
• Strong client liaison and relationship management skills

Characteristics:

• Self-motivated and proactive in managing shipments end-to-end
• Strong ownership and accountability for operational outcomes
• Ability to work under pressure in a high-volume environment
• Strong attention to detail and compliance mindset
•  Collaborative team player with cross-functional coordination ability

WHAT DO WE HAVE TO OFFER?

At CEVA Logistics, we believe in recognizing and rewarding our employees. We offer a competitive benefits package, opportunities for career growth, and a supportive work environment where you can make a real impact.

We work as a team to achieve our goals, and we encourage our employees to grow and develop within the company.

ABOUT TOMORROW

At CEVA Logistics, your career growth is our priority. This role is an excellent opportunity to build a rewarding career in pricing and quoting within a global logistics company. Whether you want to deepen your expertise in commercial strategy or explore other areas within our organization, we provide the resources and opportunities to help you succeed. Join CEVA and be part of our exciting journey!

As a global organization, and as part of the CMA CGM Group, diversity is critical to our business success; only when we can reflect the cultures, languages, behaviors and local knowledge of our customers, we can succeed. By employing people with different experiences and abilities, we expand our knowledge and increase our creativity and innovation.

Please note: Legitimate CEVA Logistics recruitment processes include communication with candidates through recognized professional networks, such as LinkedIn or via an official company email address: firstname.lastname@cevalogistics.com. We recommend that you do not respond to unsolicited business propositions and/or offers from people with whom you are unfamili