How to Become an Import/Export Clerk

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of an Import/Export Clerk

What does an Import/Export Clerk do?

AN Import/Export Clerk supports import and export operations, including shipment logistics, documentation, and customer service. Conducts audits to verify physical shipments accuracy using bills of lading, invoices, and other documents. Being an Import/Export Clerk identifies and records any discrepancies. Prepares, distributes or processes documentation to ensure required documents are in place and correct. Additionally, Import/Export Clerk coordinates and communicates with customers, agents, vendors, and shippers to maintain process flows and resolve issues. Performs data entry of shipping and cargo details into systems following required procedures. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. The Import/Export Clerk works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be an Import/Export Clerk typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.

People's Opinions on Import/Export Clerk responsibilities

An import/export clerk checks customs documents to authorize shipments.

12/10/2019: Washington, DC

An import/export clerk is an administrative employee who works with air, sea, rail and road transport companies as well as freight forwarders to arrange the shipment of products to and from the U.S.

12/30/2019: Lebanon, PA

The clerk coordinates price quotations from vehicle manufacturers for the buyer's approval.

12/25/2019: Portland, OR

Once the buyer confirms his letter from the bank guaranteeing payment to the manufacturer, the clerk coordinates getting the vehicles to the foreign destination.

02/10/2020: Burlington, VT

An import/export clerk is not limited to the shipping industry for employment.

12/23/2019: Portland, ME
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become an Import/Export Clerk

Best tips for those who want to become an Import/Export Clerk

Here are some tips to become an Import/Export Clerk.

People's Opinions on best tips

10 things to do after every job interview.

02/13/2020: Poughkeepsie, NY

Don’t be afraid to close the deal.

01/14/2020: Bangor, ME

Conduct research on the employer, hiring manager, and job opportunity.

01/06/2020: Hartford, CT

Review common interview questions and prepare your responses related to Import export clerk position.

12/05/2019: Fort Myers, FL

Overcome “job interview nervous“.

11/30/2019: Cedar Rapids, IA
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Import/Export Clerk

Best colleges and universities for Import/Export Clerk

  • Butler University
  • Taylor University
  • California State University--Maritime Academy
  • William Jessup University
  • Fairfield University
  • United States Merchant Marine Academy

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be an Import/Export Clerk

Is being an Import/Export Clerk Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

Process Import / Export documentation * Update inventory, track orders and shipments * Heavy communication with customers and factory to ensure new orders and item details * Attention to detail.

02/09/2020: Jamestown, NY

An import/export clerk is an administrative employee who works with air, sea, rail and road transport companies as well as freight forwarders to arrange the shipment of products to and from the U.S.

01/21/2020: Sarasota, FL

The clerk coordinates price quotations from vehicle manufacturers for the buyer's approval.

12/06/2019: Anderson, IN

Once the buyer confirms his letter from the bank guaranteeing payment to the manufacturer, the clerk coordinates getting the vehicles to the foreign destination.

01/14/2020: Modesto, CA

Taking a certification program in import and export can help an aspiring import/export clerk find employment in the international trade industry.

01/06/2020: Chicago, IL
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being an Import/Export Clerk

What skills do you need to be an Import/Export Clerk?

Every role has basic skill requirements for success, from supporting level roles to management roles.  These skills will be utilized daily within this role: Counting/Weighting, Import/Export Regulatory Compliance, Calculate Duties/Conversions, Transit/Customs Documentation.  When applying for this job, it is important to consider these skills, as well as any others you feel would be necessary to succeed.

People's Opinions on Import/Export Clerk skills

We ranked the top skills based on the percentage of Import Export Clerk resumes they appeared on.

12/29/2019: Fayetteville, NC

Let's find out what skills a Import Export Clerk actually needs in order to be successful in the workplace.

01/19/2020: Akron, OH

Good Knowledge of Export and Import Documentations and procedure.

11/27/2019: Elkhart, IN

Production, planning, and expediting clerks need to have basic knowledge of computer applications such as spreadsheet software.

12/29/2019: Youngstown, OH

Typically, a supervisor or more experienced worker trains new clerks.

01/13/2020: Lafayette, LA
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Step 6: View average salary for Import/Export Clerk

How much does an Import/Export Clerk make?

The average salary range for an Import/Export Clerk is from $44,958 to $59,115. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for an Import/Export Clerk
$44,958 to $59,115

Average salary for Import/Export Clerk jobs

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Step 7: Find relevant Import/Export Clerk jobs, and apply.

Looking for Import/Export Clerk jobs?

Here are some Import/Export Clerk jobs in the United States.

Search Import/Export Clerk Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Import/Export Clerk

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Import/Export Clerk? Import/Export Clerk II