There is quite a diverse array of careers in international trade available for graduates who want to work with everything from imports to exports to logistical data. Here are four promising careers in international trade for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in a business related field.
Trade Analyst
International trade analysts are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of international shipment data. They use their trade compliance and international logistics knowledge to monitor trends and identify new industry inclinations. Trade analysts often work for the government, such as in the International Trade Commission or the Department of Commerce. They ensure that local and foreign companies comply with trade regulations and standards. They also provide interpretations of import and export rules and regulations.
Some trade analysts track various shipment licensing. Others review import and export transactions related to AES filings, product classifications and shipment destinations. They interact with internal and external customers, such as customs brokers, freight forwarders and foreign port administrators. They must maintain knowledge of the US Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) required.
Compliance Manager
Compliance managers lead the collaborate efforts of import and export staff to ensure that all international shipments are legally compliant. This means that exports have accurate AES filings, imports have been handled by licensed customs brokers and that all required documentation has been properly processed. They establish internal compliance controls and provide advice regarding import and export administration. They train sales managers regarding regulatory compliance initiatives, which includes industry best practices and export compliance guidelines.
They provide on-site visits for export compliance training and consultations. For example, they may address import transportation issues and collect data from logistical departments to disseminate to senior management. They work with sales, shipping and warehouse managers to establish standardized procedures that assure all exports meet regulatory requirements. Some compliance managers develop new methods and procedures for monitoring data and performances in order to avoid fines and shipping delays.
Export Specialist
Exports specialists strive to develop a thorough understanding of assigned clients’ shipping patterns and requirements. This requires them to establish positive relationships, provide excellent customer service and maintain job related regulatory knowledge. They will review day to day processes in order to recommend operational changes, such as new equipment or warehouse locations. Some export specialists adjust logistics routes, schedules and service lines to maintain costs, speed and customer service.
They ensure that regulatory and documentation requirements are properly created, such as invoices, shipping manifests and container load plans. They must ensure that all relevant shipping sure documentation is accurately processed and distributed to agents, carriers, forwarders and customers in timely manners. They perform all necessary data entry related to shipment arrivals, departures and customs clearances. Exports specialists must also submit accurate billing to clients based on established sales prices and contracts.
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Another popular international trade career is a customs broker. These individuals are licensed professionals who prepare and submit important documentation to trade and port authorities. They are responsible for creating import compliance strategies and for clearing customs on all imports. This is one of the more rewarding careers in international trade.