Overseeing commercial operations and customs compliance with a focus on efficiency.
Lead and manage the commercial team based in Mexico, overseeing all northbound logistics operations including bookings, routings, Incoterms, client accounts, and documentation.
Manage northbound manifest transmissions, ensuring timely and accurate submissions to ACE, AMS, Descartes systems.
Serve as the primary liaison for customs house brokers, resolving shipment release delays and ensuring timely clearance.
Create and manage southbound bookings and coordinate associated invoicing processes for both northbound and southbound shipments.
Conduct audits of northbound Bills of Lading and booking documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Handle credit approvals, CBS releases, and ensure appropriate rate quotes for both northbound and southbound shipments in accordance with established tariffs.
File FMC rates when not included in the tariff and monitor expiring rates, notifying appropriate stakeholders about extensions.
Download and process invoices into QuickBooks, maintaining accurate and timely financial records.
Generate miscellaneous billing through Salesforce for services such as Estadia, dry runs, storage, and demurrage cost recoveries.
Oversee commercial compliance initiatives, including USDA, CBP, and marketing inspections.
Support vessel boarding agents with load lists, empty equipment bookings, rollovers, and other port logistics.
Collaborate closely with logistics teams to ensure timely dispatch and coordination of deliveries and pickups.
Communicate effectively with clients via email and phone, providing exceptional customer service and resolving issues proactively.
Senior Import Coordinator
Hapag-Lloyd
Houston, TX
08.2001 - 03.2017
Oversaw end-to-end import operations for international cargo shipments while ensuring full regulatory compliance and exceptional customer service.
Processed inbound cargo releases to designated facilities, ensuring timely and accurate delivery.
Transmitted manifest data to U.S. government agencies, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Generated invoices and arrival notices, including any applicable charges incurred during shipment handling.
Resolved documentation discrepancies by working directly with customers and internal departments to meet all regulatory and client requirements.
Investigated and resolved complex shipment issues, providing expert problem-solving and follow-up.
Acted as a key resource to colleagues for customs-related inquiries requiring advanced knowledge of the Automated Manifest System (AMS).
Ensured the accurate and timely release of all inbound cargo, including military and high-priority shipments, while maintaining strict adherence to all U.S. regulations.
Delivered comprehensive customer service for all inbound shipments, responding to inquiries and coordinating shipment details.
Communicated regularly with clients, agents in Latin America, and overseas partners to clarify and enforce compliance with U.S. regulatory procedures.
Trained, coached, and mentored new employees in all aspects of the import process from start to finish.
Managed a high-volume call load, responding to an average of 75 customer calls per day.
Performed additional duties and special projects as assigned to support the import team and operational goals.
Customer Service Agent
Navieras NPR. Inc.
Tampa, FL
10.1994 - 08.2001
Supported international and domestic shipping operations with a focus on documentation, customs compliance, and customer service for inbound, southbound, hazardous, and military cargo.
Managed the Automated Manifest System (AMS) for U.S. Customs, ensuring accurate and timely submission of cargo data.
Oversaw the release of containers, coordinating with customs and port authorities to ensure proper clearance.
Documented and processed freight bills of lading for inbound international shipments, including hazardous and military cargo.
Facilitated communication and coordination between sales and operations departments to ensure shipment accuracy and customer satisfaction.
Worked in the audit department, identifying and correcting discrepancies in bills of lading to ensure compliance and accuracy.
Prepared and processed documentation for southbound and inbound domestic shipments, ensuring regulatory compliance and on-time delivery.
Managed special customer accounts, providing tailored support and handling complex shipment needs.
Assisted and trained fellow employees on proper documentation procedures, supporting team efficiency and accuracy.