WiseTech Academy helps Josh Reid prepare for next step in customs career

After exploring careers in hospitality and real estate, Josh Reid says he “fell into a role in the logistics and customs industry, and four years later absolutely loves it!”

Today, 34 year old Josh is a customs classifier for international logistics and transport firm, a. hardrodt, based in Brisbane, Australia.

“Ultimately, I help companies get their freight to its destination quickly, safely and cost-effectively. This may be small packages or bulky cargo, time-sensitive shipments, special transports or hazardous materials. It’s my role to research and determine how to classify goods being imported into Australia, in line with the Customs Tariff Act (1995). So, every day is different, and I love that I get to use my brain,” explains Josh.

To help his career continue to progress, Josh tapped into the flexibility of WiseTech Academy’s online education platform to gain new industry-relevant credentials. He completed the TLI50816 Diploma of Customs Broking in 18 months, which is a key step to becoming a licensed customs broker within the transport and logistics industry.

“Flexibility is the number one benefit of studying online with WiseTech Academy. I was able to fit in study around my workday and young baby. I did not have to worry about missing a class at a specific day or time as the content was all online, ready for me to access at a time that was convenient for me,” he says.

Completing the Diploma will allow Josh to attain his customs broker license* through Australian Border Force. Once licensed, he will be able to complete barrier clearance functions, and with experience, qualify for more senior roles in the international trade sector.

*The Customs Act 1901 (Customs Act) provides that only the owner of goods or a customs broker licensed by the Comptroller-General of Customs for the Department of Home Affairs can submit an import declaration to enter goods for home consumption. Most importers of goods choose to engage a customs broker to act on their behalf because of the complexity of the laws governing the importation of goods into Australia and the potential financial and other implications of lodging an incorrect entry. More info.