Johannesburg: Customs Clearing Controller – Bonded Warehouse

Role Overview The Customs Clearing Controller will be responsible for managing end-to-end customs clearing activities and bonded warehouse operations, ensuring full compliance with SARS Customs legislation and internal procedures. This role requires a detail-oriented professional with strong technical knowledge, system expertise, and the ability to manage customs processes accurately and efficiently. Key Responsibilities Customs Operations Manage import and export customs clearing processes from documentation through to final release Prepare, review, and submit accurate customs declarations within required timelines Ensure correct tariff classification, valuation, origin compliance, and supporting documentation Identify and resolve customs queries, discrepancies, and compliance risks Coordinate with internal teams, clients, transporters, and regulatory bodies to ensure smooth clearance processes Bonded Warehouse Management Oversee bonded warehouse operations and compliance controls Monitor bonded cargo movements, stock records, and removals in bond Ensure accurate inventory reconciliation and control of bonded stock Maintain compliance with bonded warehouse regulations and audit standards Support internal and external audits relating to bonded warehouse operations Easy Clear Administration Process and supervise customs entries through Easy Clear Ensure all submissions are accurate, compliant, and completed within required timelines Support team members with system queries and processing requirements Maintain accurate electronic records and documentation Identify opportunities to improve processing efficiency and system discipline Compliance & Regulatory Management Ensure full compliance with SARS Customs legislation and regulatory requirements Liaise with SARS and relevant authorities where required Prepare for audits, inspections, and compliance reviews Maintain and update internal procedures in line with regulatory changes Support ongoing compliance and revenue protection initiatives Team Support & Operational Control Supervise and support customs clearing staff where applicable Monitor team productivity, accuracy, and service delivery Provide guidance and training on customs procedures and system use Escalate operational issues and recommend solutions Promote a culture of accuracy, compliance, and accountability Customer & Stakeholder Management Build strong relationships with clients and internal stakeholders Provide timely updates on clearance status and documentation requirements Resolve customs-related queries efficiently and professionally Support customer retention through reliable and compliant service delivery Requirements Minimum 5 years experience in customs clearing Proven experience with bonded warehouse operations and compliance Advanced working knowledge of Easy Clear Strong understanding of SARS Customs legislation and processes Solid knowledge of tariff classification, valuation, origin requirements, and import/export procedures Experience engaging with SARS and regulatory authorities Strong attention to detail and ability to work under pressure Excellent communication and problem-solving skills Desirable Experience Experience within freight forwarding, logistics, or customs environments Previous experience supervising or mentoring customs clearing staff Knowledge of bonded warehouse licensing, stock control, and audit requirements Experience handling complex entries, compliance queries, or audits Strong customer service and stakeholder engagement skills Key Competencies High level of accuracy and compliance discipline Strong technical customs knowledge Ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines Excellent communication and customer service skills Leadership and team support capability Problem-solving mindset Strong system and documentation control Performance Indicators Customs compliance and accuracy rates Bonded warehouse compliance Easy Clear processing accuracy Clearance turnaround times SARS audit outcomes Customer satisfaction Team productivity Revenue protection and operational efficiency Additional Information Occasional site visits may be required Travel within South Africa may be required depending on operational needs This role suits a detail-oriented professional who thrives in a compliance-driven environment