Full job descriptionSenior Customs Clerk
Location: Ipswich (Office-based)
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Working Hours: Monday-Friday, 09:00-17:30 (with occasional weekend/Bank Holiday cover)
Overview
Reed Recruitment is proud to be partnering with a well-established and growing logistics business to recruit an experienced Senior Customs Clerk. This is an excellent opportunity for a customs professional with a strong background in UK import and export procedures who is looking to take the next step in a fast-paced and supportive environment.
This position is ideally suited to someone confident in handling end-to-end customs clearance processes, with strong regulatory knowledge and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Key Responsibilities
*Accurately complete UK import and export customs entries in line with HMRC regulations
*Ensure full compliance with current customs legislation and CDS procedures
*Liaise effectively with HMRC, Border Force, Port Health, and other regulatory bodies
*Manage and prioritise workloads within a busy operational environment
*Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve customs declaration issues and CDS errors
*Support internal teams and provide guidance on customs-related matters
*Keep up to date with changing customs regulations, processes, and requirements
*Contribute to continuous improvement of customs processes and procedures
Essential Skills & Experience
*Minimum of 3 years’ experience in UK import and export customs clearances
*Strong working knowledge of CDS and UK customs compliance requirements
*Excellent understanding of the UK Online Customs Tariff and HMRC systems
*Experience using systems such as CNS, Destin8, and relevant HMRC portals
*Good knowledge of IPAFFS and PHILIS for import pre-arrival notifications
*Strong understanding of Incoterms within a customs environment
*Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines
*Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
*Ability to escalate and resolve customer queries effectively and professionally
Desirable (Not Essential)
*Experience with Descartes e-Customs
*Knowledge of NCTS procedures
*Understanding of Northern Ireland customs requirements
*Experience with special procedures (e.g. inward/outward processing, personal effects)
*Broader experience within freight forwarding or logistics
Benefits
*Up to £35,000
*Private medical insurance
*Life insurance
*Health & wellbeing programme
*Cycle to work scheme
*Sick pay
*Referral scheme
*Company events
*On-site parking
Next Steps
If you are an experienced customs professional looking for a senior position where your expertise will be recognised and developed, we would be keen to speak with you. Apply now or contact Reed for a confidential discussion.