Freight Forwarding Apprentice

Are you looking for the perfect opportunity to lift off your career whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification? We have a fantastic opportunity for a motivated and career minded individual to join our team as an International Freight Logistics Apprentice This opportunity would be perfect for a college leaver or anyone looking to transport their career in an industry with a bright undying future

Unsworth are an internationally recognised, multi award-winning Logistics Company. We combine the best-in class technology and people to be a leading independent freight management and supply chain solutions provider, simplifying international trade and adding value to our clients.

**What is a freight forwarder?**

Freight forwarders play an important role in the logistics industry by helping companies streamline the process of shipping goods around the World. Importing and exporting can quickly become costly and time-consuming for manufacturers, and freight forwarders can help companies decrease costs and increase operational efficiency.

A freight forwarder is a company that serves as an intermediary between airlines and vessel owners and the businesses that need them. Freight forwarders manage every aspect of the transportation process, from storing goods before shipment to completing documentation for customs formalities and tracking the cargo movement around the Globe.

**The Role**:
We’ll train you on everything you need to know to be successful in your role.

Your training will start with an 18-month apprenticeship programme in International Freight Forwarding, supported by a comprehensive training programme on the job to give you the foundations you need for a successful long term career. As your training progresses, you will become responsible for:

- Taking client’s bookings and dealing with customer enquiries relating to orders
- Assisting in arranging transportation of goods by sea, air and road and recommending best method of transport
- Providing an excellent customer experience
- Processing essential shipping documentation required by customers and suppliers
- Updating and maintaining accurate shipping information in our Freight software
- Assisting with Customs Clearance procedures and documentation
- Preparing and following up quotations with clients

**Key Learning Outcomes**:

- Knowledge of international freight movement
- Produce accurate customs declarations and valuations
- Calculating tariffs, duty, VAT and excise
- Producing freight costings/invoices
- Good sales/customer service
- Accurate and effective communication

In addition to the core knowledge, skills and behaviours you will gain on programme, you will also choose between one of three pathways, depending on the focus of your business operations: Air freight | Ocean freight | Road freight. Each pathway develops additional knowledge and skills to build competence within a specific role and pave the way for future progression. You will follow a personalised learning plan tailored to our organisation and your role.

You’ll develop an understanding of customs rules, regulations, and terms of trade. You’ll have an appreciation of international cultures, different time zones and their effect on transit times. You’ll learn to communicate effectively with people from different countries, taking account of differences in working practices.

**Your Future Prospects**:
Upon successful completion your Apprenticeship there will be genuine opportunity for you to become a valued member of staff, with the potential for future career progression within the company.
- Three A Levels (A-C)
- A confident and articulate communicator
- A proactive approach with ability to prioritise and organise work
- High level of speed and accuracy with excellent attention to detail
- Good computer / IT skills
- Self-motivated with a can-do attitude and willingness to learn and develop new skills

**What’s on Offer**:

- Work for the industry’s Employer of the Year
- Competitive remuneration package.
- Innovative and agile working environment where opinions and fresh ideas are valued and encouraged.
- Award Winning staff development program offering genuine career development opportunities.
- Staff Loyalty schemes (Health Care Plan, Enhanced holiday scheme, Cycle to work scheme, Weekly yoga, Mentoring scheme, Going the extra miles award, Gym Discounts, Experience days discounts etc)
- You’ll work with an internationally diverse, sociable, dynamic team with a clear vision and strategy.
- Hybrid working model with flexibility to work from home