Air Freight Import Specialist – DHL Global Forwarding – Mississauga, ON

DHL Global Forwarding, one of the world’s leading freight forwarding organizations, is looking for an Air Freight Import Specialist to join its team in Mississauga, Ontario. With a history dating back to 1815 and over 43,000 employees across 101 countries, DHL brings unmatched global expertise in air freight forwarding, customs compliance, and international logistics — and this role sits right at the heart of those operations.

In this position, you’ll take ownership of the full air import process, from coordinating shipment milestones to ensuring regulatory compliance and keeping customers informed every step of the way. It’s a role that demands precision, communication, and a solid grasp of customs documentation and international trade practices.

About the Role: Air Freight Import Specialist

As an Air Import Specialist, your primary focus will be managing and optimizing the import operations process from origin to destination. You’ll prepare and process critical documentation — including bills of lading, commercial invoices, and customs declarations — while liaising with customs brokers, carriers, freight forwarders, and ground handlers to ensure timely clearance and delivery of shipments.

You’ll also be the point of contact for clients, addressing inquiries and providing shipment status updates with a high standard of customer service. Collaboration with internal teams across sales, customer service, and operations is a key part of this role, as is maintaining accurate data entry in DHL’s logistics management systems (CW1 experience is an asset). Compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and company policies is non-negotiable throughout every stage of the import cycle.

Benefits and Salary

DHL Global Forwarding offers a competitive compensation package for this role. The base salary ranges from CAD $50,000 to $65,000, supplemented by a performance bonus and full benefits. As a Global Top Employer recognized across 6 regions and 35 countries, DHL also invests in your professional development through in-site training programmes, an online learning platform, on-the-job training, and opportunities to earn role-specific certifications.

Responsibilities

This role covers the entire lifecycle of air freight import operations, requiring both technical knowledge and strong interpersonal skills. From documentation to customs liaison to customer communication, each responsibility contributes to seamless international shipment delivery.

• Manage and coordinate the full import process from origin to destination, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements
• Prepare, review, and process all necessary import documentation, including bills of lading, commercial invoices, and customs declarations
• Liaise with customs brokers and authorities to facilitate timely clearance of goods
• Provide exceptional customer service by addressing client inquiries, resolving issues, and delivering accurate shipment status updates
• Coordinate with carriers, freight forwarders, and ground handlers to secure bookings, monitor shipment status, and resolve transportation-related issues
• Maintain accurate records and update shipment data in the company’s logistics management system
• Track and monitor shipment milestones, providing timely updates to customers and internal stakeholders
• Identify financial anomalies and apply strong financial acumen to support business operations
• Stay current on industry regulations, market trends, and best practices in air freight forwarding and customs compliance
• Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, customer service, and operations teams to ensure seamless communication and customer satisfaction

Requirements / Skills

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in air freight import operations and a thorough understanding of customs compliance and international trade documentation. DHL values professionals who can manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining precision and a strong service mindset.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or certification in supply chain, logistics, or international trade is an asset
• 2–3 years of proven experience in air freight forwarding, specifically in import operations
• In-depth knowledge of import regulations, customs compliance, and documentation requirements
• Proficiency in MS Office applications; experience with CW1 is a distinct advantage
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with customers, vendors, and internal teams
• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities, with the capacity to prioritize tasks and meet tight deadlines
• Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to address operational challenges and provide efficient solutions
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and adapt to shifting priorities

How to Apply

To apply, use the link below to access the official DHL Global Forwarding job posting. Make sure your resume is up to date and reflects your experience in air freight import operations before submitting.

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