Job Description

This is an excellent opportunity to join a specialist fine art logistics business, where precision and professionalism sit alongside culture and creativity. You'll be a key part of ensuring valuable artworks and other high-value items move seamlessly across borders, combining compliance, accuracy, and speed in a busy, time-sensitive environment.
The Role
You'll sit within the Customs team, taking responsibility for the full range of import and export formalities. From creating and processing declarations to closing T1s, you'll take ownership for making sure all movements are fully compliant with UK and international customs regulations.
This is a hands-on customs role, not a junior or purely administrative position - we're looking for someone who is confident with customs processes and able to get up to speed quickly.
Although the business handles multimodal shipments, a significant proportion of work is road freight, often last-minute and time-critical. Because of this, we're keen to speak with people who enjoy a fast-paced environment and ideally have experience in road freight or multimodal operations, rather than solely sea freight.
You'll also work closely with external partners and service providers, issuing clear instructions and checking that all documentation and communication is accurate and complete.
After a successful probation period, you'll be able to work from home one day per week.
Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit import and export customs declarations via CDS (Descartes training can be provided).

• Close T1s and ensure all transit documentation is correctly controlled and recorded.

• Issue accurate customs clearance instructions to internal teams and third-party providers.

• Track shipments and ensure all records are completed, compliant, and up to date.

• Communicate confidently with HMRC, freight forwarders, and customs authorities.

• Maintain well-organised, accurate customs files and documentation.

• Support the wider customs team with day-to-day operational tasks.

• Make sure all work is carried out in line with current customs legislation and company procedures.

What We're Looking For

• Solid, proven experience completing customs declarations - this is essential.

• Strong knowledge of import/export processes and customs compliance.

• Practical experience within road freight or multimodal logistics.

• Ability to handle multiple tasks and changing priorities in a high-pressure environment.

• Confident communication skills, with the ability to liaise with internal teams and external partners.

• High level of accuracy and strong organisational skills.

• Proactive, solutions-focused approach to problem-solving.

• Experience using CDS via Descartes is an advantage, but not essential.

• Confident IT skills, including Microsoft Office and customs/operational systems.

If you'd like to know more about this customs opportunity, please contact Amie Cutts on 01376 503567 or email .
If you know someone who could be a good fit, please share this advert or send us their details. Successful referrals may qualify for our candidate referral scheme (subject to terms and conditions).
Red Recruit specialises in shipping, freight and logistics recruitment, with opportunities at all levels across the sector. Not all of our roles are advertised, so if you have relevant experience, feel free to send us your CV in confidence or give us a call to discuss your situation.

Skills Required