Trainee Customs Clerk – Customs Clearance / Freight Forwarding

Location:  Wortley, Leeds.

Our client is a well-established, fast-growing logistics and freight forwarding company with an excellent reputation for delivering high-quality customs clearance and supply chain solutions across the UK and internationally. They are known for a supportive working environment, strong team culture, and a genuine commitment to training and professional development.

Due to continued growth, they are seeking a Trainee Customs Clerk to join the busy customs team at their head office in Wortley, Leeds. This is a fantastic entry-level opportunity for someone eager to build a career in customs and freight—ideal for applicants who may have some exposure to logistics through family, study, or previous roles, and who are keen to break into the shipping industry.

Purpose of the role

You will learn the end-to-end customs process within an established freight forwarding and customs clearance team. Full training will be provided to develop your skills in documentation, data entry, and compliance, progressing to independently processing import and export clearances as your knowledge grows.

What you’ll do (with full training and supervision)

• Learn how to complete CDS customs clearances for imports and exports.
• Support the checking and verification of commercial documentation.
• Assist with tariff classification, basic duty/VAT principles, and Incoterms awareness.
• Help process Simplified Customs Declaration Procedures (SCDP) for customers (training on internal systems provided).
• Liaise with customers, shipping agents, and freight forwarders to maintain service levels.
• Keep accurate records and contribute to on-time, error-free entries.
• Build up-to-date knowledge of HMRC regulations and UK customs compliance requirements.

How you’ll do it

• Hardworking – show commitment and do your best every day.
• Efficient – work in an organised manner, meeting role requirements with minimal waste.
• Adaptable – support your team and respond positively to changing needs.
• Approachable – be reliable and a supportive teammate.
• Honest – be open and transparent with colleagues and customers.
• Proactive – look for ways to exceed expectations and improve processes.
• Courageous – tackle challenges with determination.
• Positive – maintain a constructive attitude.

Person specification

• Administration experience is helpful (e.g., logistics, freight, import/export, or office support), but not essential.
• No prior customs experience required; full training provided.
• Genuine interest in customs, international trade, or freight forwarding.
• Awareness of tariff codes and Incoterms is an advantage (training provided).
• Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office; comfortable learning new software.
• Strong literacy and numeracy, with excellent attention to detail.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Problem-solving mindset with a practical, can-do approach.
• Flexible and able to adapt to changing demands (including occasional shift/finish-time variation where needed).

Working hours

Office-based.

Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 17:30.

If you are keen to start a career in customs with a forward-thinking, supportive company offering real progression and structured training, apply today and take your first step into the industry.

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