Import Planner

SUMMARY

Uses MRP, combined with inventory policies and procedures, to create purchase orders and communicate with agents and suppliers outside the USA.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other related duties in line with meeting corporate goals may be assigned.

• Review MRP requirements and issue import purchase orders; expedite, delay, or cancel purchases as needed to support current business priorities and inventory strategies.

• Responsible for managing and maintaining adequate import inventory levels taking into consideration the country of origin, factory MOQ, lead times as well as inland and ocean distribution challenges.

• Work with and challenge factories to reduce MOQ and transship to other factories when appropriate to maximize container capacity.

• Regularly review the open order report to ensure timely shipments. Partner with Import Buying Agents to resolve production-related delays and/or container capacity concerns.

• Responsible for ensuring the accuracy of item setup and entering trade agreements for new items and maintaining item integrity on existing items.

• Communicate commercial invoice approval to Accounts Payable.
• Provide monthly reporting for key imported Production Materials and new items, including tracking, inventory analysis, and status updates to support planning and decision-making.

• Monitor and update safety stock levels maintained at factories to align with projected demand.

• Prepare a monthly Import Summary report that details spend analysis for all imported products.

• Evaluate vendor performance through KPIs, including on-time delivery, lead time accuracy, order fulfillment, quality issues, and communication responsiveness and drive corrective actions and continuous improvement.

• Negotiate agreements with freight forwarders and ensure compliance with all contractual obligations.

• Assist Production and Inventory Control Manager in the annual update of the Import Compliancy Manual.

• Assist in the determination of product classifications and harmonized tariff schedules and proper duty rates.

• Provide other reports and updates as requested.