How to Be Shipping Controller - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 20, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The rise in e-commerce has had a major effect on the shipping controller industry. As more people turn to online shopping to purchase their goods, the need for efficient shipping controllers has skyrocketed. Shipping controllers are responsible for ensuring that packages arrive at their destination on time, in the correct order, and with minimal damages.

This requires the collaboration of various entities, such as carriers, warehouses, and customers, to ensure that deliveries are properly tracked, routed, and documented. In addition to these responsibilities, shipping controllers must also stay up to date with regulations and industry trends in order to ensure that shipments meet all necessary requirements. The increasingly complex and competitive shipping environment has made it essential for companies to have reliable shipping controllers in order to remain competitive.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. In order to become a shipping controller, individuals must have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Get on-the-job training. Many employers prefer to hire those with prior experience in a related field, such as logistics or supply chain management. Those without previous experience can gain valuable training by volunteering in the industry or through an internship.
Pursue a college degree. Shipping controllers are expected to have a four-year degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration or a related field in order to be competitive in the job market.
Obtain certification. The American Society of Transportation and Logistics offers a certification program for shipping controllers. This program requires applicants to pass an exam and meet certain educational and experience requirements.
Earn experience in the field. Shipping controllers can gain valuable experience by working in the industry or through internships. Employers often prefer candidates with at least two years of experience.
Maintain certification. Shipping controllers are required to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their certification.

The key to having a reliable and capable shipping controller is to select a system that is designed for the specific needs of the business. The system should offer a comprehensive suite of features that are tailored to the unique requirements of a shipping operation, such as real-time tracking and automated order processing. the system should be able to integrate with existing systems and offer secure data storage.

By investing in a tailored and comprehensive shipping controller, businesses can streamline their operations and ensure that their shipping needs are met in an efficient and cost-effective manner. As a result, businesses will see increased customer satisfaction and improved overall profitability.

You may want to check Materials Controller, Data Controller, and Quality Controller for alternative.

Job Description

Receive, inspect and log incoming shipments
Pack, seal, label and ship orders
Track outgoing shipments and ensure delivery within agreed timelines
Manage inventory levels and ensure accurate data entry
Coordinate freight and transportation services
Liaise with suppliers, carriers and customers
Ensure compliance with relevant regulations
Resolve any delivery issues or customer complaints
Generate reports and analyze data related to shipments
Monitor shipping costs and identify areas of improvement

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of warehouse management and inventory control procedures
Ability to read and interpret shipping documents
Familiarity with freight rates, customs regulations, and hazardous materials regulations
Excellent organizational and communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Computer literacy, including experience with MS Office and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems
Ability to lift up to 50lbs
Excellent problem-solving and multitasking abilities
Knowledge of international shipping requirements
Knowledge of domestic and international regulations for shipping and receiving

Timely and accurate shipping is a critical component of a successful business. Ensuring that customers receive their orders in a timely and efficient manner is essential for customer satisfaction and repeat business. The Shipping Controller plays an important role in ensuring this, as their job involves overseeing the entire shipping process.

To be successful in this role, the Shipping Controller must possess excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. They must be able to effectively communicate with suppliers and customers, while also making sure all orders are shipped on time and in perfect condition. they need to be able to handle any unexpected issues that may arise, such as delayed shipments or damaged goods.

Having strong multitasking abilities is also essential when dealing with multiple orders at once. Finally, the Shipping Controller must have an in-depth understanding of the company's shipping policies and procedures to ensure compliance with all regulations. By having these skills, the Shipping Controller is able to ensure a smooth and efficient shipping process, which ultimately leads to increased customer satisfaction and long-term success for the business.

Document Controller, Cost Controller, and Budget Controller are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How do you stay organized when managing multiple shipping orders?
What strategies do you use to ensure timely and accurate shipments?
How do you keep track of shipments, both incoming and outgoing?
What experience do you have working with different types of shipping software?
How do you handle customer complaints or disputes regarding shipments?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a problem with a shipment.
What processes do you use to ensure that shipments are properly labeled and packaged?
How do you manage your workload while ensuring that all orders are shipped correctly and on time?
How do you handle last minute changes or unexpected delays in shipping?
How do you stay up to date on the regulations and laws related to international shipping?

Common Tools in Industry

Shipping Management Software. A software system for tracking, routing, and managing the delivery of goods. (Eg: ShipStation)
Delivery Management Software. A software system for managing and tracking deliveries from suppliers to customers. (Eg: Routific)
Global Shipping Software. A software system for managing international shipping operations. (Eg: Shipa Freight)
Logistics Management Software. A software system for managing the logistics of a supply chain. (Eg: SAP Logistics Execution)
Warehouse Management System (WMS). A software system for managing warehouse operations. (Eg: Oracle Warehouse Management)
Inventory Management Software. A software system for tracking and managing inventory levels. (Eg: TradeGecko)
Transportation Management System (TMS). A software system for managing the transportation of goods. (Eg: MercuryGate TMS)
Order Management System (OMS). A software system for managing the order process from start to finish. (Eg: Shipwire OMS)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Air Transport Association (IATA)
National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA)
American Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI)
International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA)
Airforwarders Association (AfA)
National Association of Small Shipments (NASSTRAC)
National Industrial Transportation League (NITL)
National Shippers Strategic Transportation Council (NASSTRAC)
International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA)
The Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT)

We also have Logistics Controller, Process Controller, and Systems Controller jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Supply Chain Management. The management of the flow of goods and services, from the source of raw materials to the end customer.
Logistics. The coordination of the movement of goods and services from one point to another.
Inventory Control. The management of stock levels in order to maintain a desired level of service and cost.
Warehousing. The storage of goods and materials in a secure location to ensure their safety and availability.
Order Fulfillment. The process of ensuring that customer orders are shipped correctly and in a timely manner.
Transportation. The physical movement of goods from one point to another.
Distribution. The process of moving goods from one location to another, usually from the warehouse to the customer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Shipping Controller?

A Shipping Controller is a professional responsible for managing the shipping process of goods from the point of origin to their destination. They coordinate the various steps of the process, including shipping, receiving, and tracking of shipments.

What are some of the duties of a Shipping Controller?

The duties of a Shipping Controller include managing the shipment process, arranging transportation, monitoring shipment progress, preparing shipping documents, and coordinating with customers and vendors. They also must maintain accurate records of shipment dates, costs, and delivery times.

What qualifications are needed to be a Shipping Controller?

To become a Shipping Controller, a person must have experience in logistics, supply chain management, or related fields. They must also have strong organizational and communication skills, as well as knowledge of shipping regulations, customs requirements, and international trade laws.

What is the average salary for a Shipping Controller?

The average salary for a Shipping Controller is approximately $55,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.

What are the benefits of being a Shipping Controller?

Being a Shipping Controller provides a variety of job opportunities with potential for career growth and advancement. Additionally, Shipping Controllers can gain valuable insight into international trade laws and customs regulations that can be useful in other roles.