Base Metal Logistics – Import & Export Operations

Job Description: Base Metal Logistics – Import & Export Operations

Position Title

Base Metal Logistics Executive / Manager

Department

Supply Chain & Logistics

Job Purpose

To manage and coordinate end-to-end logistics operations for base metals, including imports, exports, warehousing, transportation, customs clearance, documentation, inventory control, and coordination with suppliers, customers, shipping lines, freight forwarders, and regulatory authorities.

Key Responsibilities

Import Operations

• Coordinate import shipments of base metals such as Copper, Aluminium, Zinc, Lead, Nickel, Tin, and related products.
• Manage import documentation including Purchase Orders, Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading, Certificates of Origin, and Insurance documents.
• Liaise with customs brokers and CHA for timely customs clearance.
• Monitor shipment schedules and vessel movements to ensure on-time delivery.
• Ensure compliance with DGFT, Customs, RBI, and other regulatory requirements.
• Track import costs, duties, freight charges, demurrage, detention, and other logistics expenses.

Export Operations

• Coordinate export shipments and ensure timely dispatch as per customer requirements.
• Prepare and verify export documentation including Shipping Bills, Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Certificates of Origin, LUT/Bond documentation, and other statutory documents.
• Coordinate with freight forwarders, shipping lines, and transporters.
• Ensure compliance with export regulations and customer-specific requirements.
• Monitor export order execution and shipment tracking until final delivery.

Logistics & Supply Chain Management

• Plan and optimize transportation routes and logistics costs.
• Coordinate movement of material between ports, warehouses, processing units, and customer locations.
• Manage inventory levels and warehouse operations.
• Monitor stock reconciliation and material traceability.
• Minimize logistics costs while maintaining service levels.

Commercial & Documentation

• Verify logistics invoices and process payments.
• Maintain accurate shipment records and MIS reports.
• Coordinate with finance teams for LC transactions, import payments, export proceeds, and related documentation.
• Ensure proper filing and record retention of all logistics documents.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Develop and maintain relationships with shipping lines, freight forwarders, transporters, warehouses, and customs agents.
• Negotiate freight and logistics contracts to achieve cost savings.
• Coordinate with procurement, sales, finance, and operations teams for smooth execution of shipments.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with international trade regulations and company policies.
• Monitor insurance coverage and handle cargo claims when required.
• Identify logistics risks and implement mitigation measures.
• Maintain adherence to health, safety, and environmental standards.

Key Skills Required

• Import & Export Documentation
• Customs Clearance Procedures
• International Trade Regulations
• Freight & Shipping Management
• Inventory and Warehouse Management
• Supply Chain Planning
• ERP Systems (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, etc.)
• MS Excel and Reporting Tools
• Vendor Management and Negotiation
• Problem Solving and Analytical Skills

Experience

3–10+ years of experience in import/export logistics, preferably in base metals, non-ferrous metals, commodities, mining, or metal trading industries.

Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• On-time shipment execution.
• Logistics cost optimization.
• Customs clearance turnaround time.
• Inventory accuracy.
• Reduction in demurrage and detention costs.
• Compliance with import/export regulations.
• Customer and supplier service levels.