Shipping Assistant

Roles and responsibilities

The Shipping Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the logistics and shipping operations at GMG. The position requires coordination and management of shipments to ensure accurate and timely delivery. The role involves collaborating with internal teams and external partners to streamline shipping processes and maintain inventory accuracy.

Key Responsibilities for the Shipping Assistant:

• Process incoming and outgoing shipments according to company guidelines.
• Coordinate with courier services and logistics partners to schedule deliveries and pickups.
• Maintain accurate records of shipping documentation and inventory levels.
• Inspect and verify goods received against purchase orders and shipping documents.
• Assist in resolving any issues related to shipping delays or discrepancies.
• Support the implementation of process improvements and cost reduction initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety standards throughout the shipping process.
• Collaborate with the warehouse team to optimise storage and organization of goods.
  

Qualifications and Skills Needed for a Shipping Assistant:

• Proficiency in basic computer applications, especially Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to multitask and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced setting.
• A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent; additional logistics or supply chain certification is a plus.
• Physical ability to lift and move heavy packages as needed.
  

What We Offer:

• An opportunity to grow within a dynamic, international team.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Employee discounts across our retail and pharmacy chains.
• Annual leave and flight allowances for expatriate employees.

Desired candidate profile

1. Organizational Skills

• Inventory Management: Keeping track of goods, monitoring stock levels, and ensuring items are available for shipping.
• Shipping Documentation: Accurately completing shipping forms, invoices, and any other required paperwork.
• Order Processing: Managing and organizing orders to ensure timely and correct dispatch.

2. Attention to Detail

• Accurate Labeling: Ensuring that all packages are labeled correctly with the right addresses, product information, and shipping instructions.
• Quality Control: Double-checking that the correct products are shipped to the correct customers, including sizes, quantities, and specifications.
• Shipping Method Compliance: Ensuring that the proper shipping methods are chosen based on customer requirements or product specifications.

3. Time Management

• Prioritizing Shipments: Meeting shipping deadlines and ensuring that orders are processed in a timely manner.
• Handling Multiple Orders: Juggling several shipments at once without sacrificing accuracy.
• Coordinating with Delivery Services: Ensuring that parcels are shipped out on time and coordinating with carriers for pick-up and delivery.

4. Basic Computer Skills

• Shipping Software: Proficiency with shipping software or systems (e.g., ShipStation, UPS WorldShip, FedEx Ship Manager) to process orders and print labels.
• Order Management Systems (OMS): Using the OMS to check order statuses, update records, and ensure inventory is up to date.
• Data Entry: Inputting shipping information, tracking numbers, and handling customer inquiries via email or other communication tools.

5. Knowledge of Shipping Procedures and Regulations

• Shipping Policies: Familiarity with different shipping policies and methods (e.g., ground shipping, air freight, international shipping).
• Customs Regulations: Understanding shipping regulations, particularly for international shipments, including documentation, tariffs, and customs clearance.
• Hazardous Materials: Knowledge of how to handle and ship hazardous materials (if applicable) in compliance with safety regulations.

6. Physical Stamina

• Lifting and Handling Shipments: Physically lifting, packing, and moving boxes or packages of varying sizes and weights.
• Standing for Long Periods: Being on your feet for extended periods while managing packaging or shipping tasks.
• Sorting Packages: Sorting packages based on size, destination, and shipping method.

7. Problem-Solving Skills

• Shipping Issues: Handling problems such as delays, damaged goods, or lost shipments and finding solutions quickly.
• Customer Inquiries: Resolving customer complaints related to shipping, such as incorrect addresses or missed delivery dates.
• Tracking and Follow-Up: Troubleshooting issues related to tracking numbers or delivery problems.