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Image of career: Freight Inspector

Freight Inspector

Overview

Freight inspectors examine imported goods to ensure they're handled according to regulations and safety standards.

Description

  • Inspect goods for freight forwarding documents to ensure all paperwork is correct and complete.
  • Evaluate risk factors that may reduce efficiency.
  • Ensure compliance with Workplace Safety and Health practices.
  • Work with customs officials to help goods clear through customs smoothly and quickly.
  • Create detailed inspection reports for both internal teams and external partners.

Entry requirements

  • You'll need minimally NITEC, Certificate in Microsoft Office Skills, NTC Grade 2 or equivalent plus a valid driver's licence.
  • Certification in Logistics or Supply Chain Management is preferred. Physical fitness for manual inspections and availability for shift work including nights and weekends are required.

Salary

$2,000 – 2,300

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

Freight inspectors working with airlines have special duties like ensuring live animals in cargo planes get enough oxygen at high altitudes during flights.

What to expect

While English is super important for you to communicate with global stakeholders, additional languages will be a bonus for you to relate to overseas counterparts.

Soft
skills

Communication

Able to express and exchange information clearly with customs officials and team members.

Decision Making

Ability to think critically and make good decisions to find the best solutions.

Self-Management

Able to stay organised with tasks, manage time well, and work independently without constant supervision.

Mathematics

Ability to calculate dimensions, volumes and costs in various shipping and logistics contexts.

Knowledge of Transporting Goods

Good understanding of logistics, shipping routes and regulations for moving items safely and legally.

Knowledge of Safety Measures

Trained in safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure workplace safety.

Hard
skills

Frequently asked questions

Don't worry, they provide on-the-job training. It's important to be a quick learner and pick up things to work independently.

Freight inspectors check the goods being transported, while transportation inspectors check the vehicles, vessels, or aircraft that transport goods and ensure repairs are adequate.

They evaluate risk factors based on the country of origin, type of goods, any discrepancies and intelligence reports, then inspect to reduce any risks.

They inspect a wide range of goods, particularly focusing on prohibited items and high-risk goods that need special attention.

They use tools like X-ray scanners, metal detectors and specialised equipment to assess the risk level of different goods.