Shipping Controller

Recruiter

Persona Staff

Job Ref

CPT006653/N

Date posted

Friday, June 12, 2026

Location

Cape Town, South Africa

SUMMARY

Our client in the import and export industry is looking for a Shipping Controller to join their team in Cape Town. The purpose of this position is to manage, coordinate and control the movement of containers and cargo.

POSITION INFO

Responsibilities: Ensure all new shipments are accurately captured and maintained in the shipment schedule. Acknowledge new contracts and match suppliers with buyers in accordance with contractual guidelines and requirements. Open, populate, and maintain relevant colour-coded hard copy files for each new shipment. Monitor and update shipment schedules, including ETA, SOB, and ETD, ensuring deadlines are consistently met. Arrange container bookings directly with shipping lines or appointed agents. Ensure timeous dispatch, delivery, and arrival of cargo in accordance with agreed timelines. Provide routing and tracking information for containers, bills of landing, and shipping documentation. Update and inform clients on shipment and container status. Arrange clearances and releases with relevant authorities and industry bodies. Manage and control documentation flow by liaising with agents, suppliers, and customers to ensure accurate and timeous preparation of shipping documents. Ensure all documentation received tallies with supplier, buyer contracts and complies with contractual terms. Liaise with clients regarding documentation and any special requirements. Monitor, arrange, and control road haulage deliveries of containers/cargo. Negotiate rates with transporters, freight forwarders, and shipping companies. Prepare and provide sea freight, road freight, air freight, and courier quotations and submit invoices for approval. Monitor and ensure empty containers are uplifted and returned within prescribed free time periods. Track and monitor monthly shipping budgets against project budgeted values. Work as part of the operations team to ensure seamless shipment execution. Follow relevant SOP's and company procedures. Assist with any reasonable instructions received from management. Requirements: Grade 12 / Matric Certificate (essential). Relevant tertiary qualification (advantageous). Minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar role. Exceptional attention to detail. Strong understanding of buyer and supplier contract requirements and adherence thereto. Deadline-driven with the ability to perform under pressure and manage changing priorities. Strong team player with the ability to collaborate effectively. Excellent communication skills (written and verbal). High level of accuracy and administrative skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word). Good understanding of South African import and export procedures (e.g., Port Health, DAFF, etc.). To apply, please send your CV to Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not receive feedback within 48 hours, please accept your application as unsuccessful. Persona Staff (Pty) Ltd is POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013) compliant, all personal information is protected according to legislation. Applying for any of our available vacancies, you give Persona Staff consent to process your Personal Information for Recruitment Purposes, according to the POPI ACT, 2013. If you have any concerns regarding your Personal Information and our compliance towards the legislation, you are welcome to request out POPI Act Policy.