Hemisphere are looking for someone to make a difference. Are you up for it?

Established in 1989, Hemisphere is an all-encompassing global logistics provider and has grown to be one of the largest independent UK providers of logistics solutions across Europe, Asia, North America, South America, Africa, and Australasia.

Within this role you will act as an agent on behalf of Importers, Exporters, or other Freight Forwarders to organise the safe, efficient and cost-effective transportation of antiques, furniture and decorative furnishings.

The aim is to arrange the best means of transport taking into account the type of goods and the customer’s delivery requirements. In many cases, our company itself provides the full door-to-door service.

A successful candidate would be joining a small but growing department with highly experienced and skilled colleagues. This operational department has plenty of opportunities for the right candidate in a friendly and professional work environment. While initially the focus for the role will be on European shipments and container exports, there is scope for the successful candidate to expand into all aspects of antique shipping and add to their existing knowledge base.

• Working closely with both the Antiques Shipping Manager and customers to ensure all aspects of shipments are understood and carried out efficiently.
• Working closely with shipping lines, hauliers, European couriers and packing warehouses to ensure the most cost-effective solution for the customer is realised.
• Investigating and planning the most appropriate route for a shipment taking into account the nature of goods, customs status, cost, transit time and security.
• Arranging appropriate packing considering the climate, terrain, weight, cost and nature of goods and also the delivery and warehousing of goods at their final destination.
• Obtaining, checking and preparing documentation to meet customs and insurance requirements, packing specifications, and compliance with other countries’ regulations and fiscal regimes.
• Arranging insurance and assisting the client in the event of a claim.
• Arranging payment of freight and other charges or collection of payment on behalf of the client.
• Utilising e-commerce, internet technology and satellite systems to enable real-time tracking of goods.
• Dealing with special arrangements for transporting delicate cargoes.
• Maintaining communication and control through all phases of the journey.
• Maintaining current knowledge of relevant legislation, political situations and other factors that could affect the movement of freight.
• Developing close relationships with all parties involved in the process – the department offers a “hand holding service” which essentially means they take a lot of the onus on paperwork away from the clients.

Whilst previous knowledge of working within exports or customs would give the applicant an advantage, it’s not essential since full training will be given.  An interest in antiques and unusual shipments is essential, as is patience to deal with clients that will not understand the processes and regulations surrounding their shipments.

• Communication skills, as you’ll be liaising with a variety of people – relationship building is key
• Clarity in communication, as major problems could arise through inaccuracies
• Organisational and planning skills
• Teamwork, tact, and good interpersonal skills
• Sensitivity to culture and religion
• Good geographical knowledge
• Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances
• Problem-solving ability and a “can do” attitude
• The ability to work efficiently under pressure
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Numeracy and computer literacy.