Import-export clerk

You could do a degree before applying to join an organisation's management training scheme. Most subjects are accepted but you may have an advantage if you study:

• transport and distribution management
• logistics and supply chain management
• business and management
• foreign languages with business studies

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could do an international freight forwarding advanced apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You could start as an office assistant in a freight forwarding or logistics department and work your way up through training and promotion.

You'll find it useful to have office experience and computer skills.

You're likely to need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grade 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths. Some employers may prefer you to have A levels or higher qualifications.

You could take an introductory course, like the ones offered by The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and The Institute of Export and International Trade.

Career tips

You'll find it useful to speak a foreign language if the company operates internationally.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming an import-export clerk from The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.

You'll need:

• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• knowledge of geography
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• customer service skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with others
• administration skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Your day-to-day duties may include:

• managing freight bookings using a computer system
• checking order, tax and customs documents are correct
• working closely with national and international suppliers and agents
• arranging freight deliveries and collections between ports, airports and warehouses
• handling invoices and payments
• keeping clients up to date with progress
• dealing with any problems or delays

You could work in a warehouse or in an office.