Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico Career Overview
As a Freight Billing Specialist, your role is vital in the logistics and transportation sector. You will be responsible for the accurate billing of shipments, ensuring that all charges are properly calculated and communicated to clients. Your expertise helps maintain the financial integrity of shipping operations, fostering trust and efficiency within the supply chain.
Key responsibilities include:
Invoice Preparation: You will prepare invoices based on transportation charges, ensuring all necessary documentation is accurate and complete.
Charge Validation: Your role involves verifying freight charges against service agreements and shipment details to assure correctness before invoicing.
Client Communication: You will interact with clients to clarify billing inquiries, resolve discrepancies, and provide detailed explanations of charges.
Record Keeping: Maintaining meticulous records of billing transactions and payment histories is essential for follow-up and audits.
Collaboration with Other Departments: You will work closely with logistics, operations, and customer service teams to streamline processes and improve billing accuracy.
The importance of your position extends beyond financial transactions; it supports the overall efficiency of supply chain operations and enhances customer satisfaction by providing transparency and clarity in billing. Your role ensures that all stakeholders in the shipping process are aligned and informed, which is essential for maintaining the smooth flow of goods and services in the economy.
Freight Billing Specialist Salary in New Mexico
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico
To become a Freight Billing Specialist, you typically need the following educational qualifications and training:
Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree in one of the following fields:
- Accounting: Focuses on financial reporting, taxation, and auditing principles.
- Accounting and Business Management: Combines financial expertise with business strategy and operations.
- Auditing: Emphasizes the examination of financial statements, internal controls, and compliance.
- Logistics: Covers the principles of supply chain management, transportation, and inventory control.
- Purchasing: Teaches the procurement process, supplier relations, and cost management.
- Procurement: Focuses on buying goods and services, supplier negotiations, and contract management.
- Acquisitions: Addresses the processes related to acquiring companies or assets, including due diligence and financial analysis.
- Contracts Management: Provides knowledge on negotiating, managing, and complying with contractual obligations.
Certification Programs: While not always required, pursuing certifications such as Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) or Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP) can enhance your qualifications and credibility in the field.
On-the-Job Training: Many employers offer training programs for new hires, focusing on company-specific processes and software used in freight billing.
Continuing Education: Staying updated on industry standards and regulations through workshops, seminars, or courses related to logistics and billing practices is beneficial.
Best Schools to become a Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico 2024
Western Governors University
Southern New Hampshire University
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Utah Valley University
American Public University System
- Compile, compute, and record billing, accounting, statistical, and other numerical data for billing purposes.
- Prepare billing invoices for services rendered or for delivery or shipment of goods.
Freight Billing Specialist Required Skills and Competencies in New Mexico
Attention to Detail: Ensure accuracy in billing, ensuring that all charges are correct and correspond to the services rendered.
Analytical Skills: Assess complex billing data and identify discrepancies or errors that may affect revenue and customer satisfaction.
Communication Skills: Communicate effectively with clients, vendors, and team members to clarify billing issues and resolve disputes.
Organizational Skills: Manage multiple accounts and billing cycles while maintaining detailed records and documentation.
Technical Proficiency: Utilize billing software and transportation management systems proficiently to create, track, and modify invoices.
Problem-Solving Skills: Quickly identify issues related to invoicing or payments and develop effective solutions to address them.
Knowledge of Freight and Logistics: Have a solid understanding of freight operations, tariffs, taxes, and regulations that impact billing processes.
Customer Service Orientation: Provide exceptional support to clients regarding billing inquiries and help maintain positive relationships.
Time Management: Prioritize tasks effectively to meet deadlines and ensure timely billing cycles, especially during peak periods.
Mathematical Skills: Apply basic arithmetic and accounting principles to calculate charges and ensure billing accuracy.
Job Duties for Freight Billing Specialists
Prepare itemized statements, bills, or invoices and record amounts due for items purchased or services rendered.
Resolve discrepancies in accounting records.
Verify accuracy of billing data and revise any errors.
Accounting software
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Sage 50 Accounting
Medical software
- Epic Systems
- MEDITECH software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Using math to solve problems
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico
The job market for Freight Billing Specialists in New Mexico is currently exhibiting positive trends, reflecting the broader growth in the logistics and transportation sectors. Here are some key insights:
Demand: There is a steady demand for Freight Billing Specialists due to the increasing complexity of shipping logistics and the necessity of precise billing procedures. The expansion of e-commerce has further fueled this need, as more companies look to optimize their shipping operations.
Growth Potential: The role of Freight Billing Specialist is expected to see moderate growth as businesses seek efficiencies in their supply chain and billing processes. With the emphasis on accuracy in freight transactions and the management of diverse freight charges, there are opportunities for advancement into supervisory or managerial roles within logistics companies.
Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in New Mexico are becoming focal points for logistics and distribution activities, leading to an increased need for professionals in this field. Key locations include:
- Albuquerque: As the largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque hosts a variety of logistics companies and has established itself as a significant transportation hub.
- Santa Teresa: This border area is seeing growth in manufacturing and shipping activities, driven by its proximity to the Mexico border, consequently increasing the demand for Freight Billing Specialists.
- Las Cruces: The growing economic initiatives in Las Cruces create opportunities for companies that require freight billing expertise to address their logistical needs.
In summary, the job market for Freight Billing Specialists in New Mexico is characterized by steady demand and potential for growth, particularly in urban centers and areas connected to major shipping routes.
Top Related Careers to Freight Billing Specialist 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico
American Trucking Associations (ATA)
- Website: www.trucking.org
- Description: The ATA provides valuable industry insights, advocacy resources, and information on best practices in freight and transportation.
Freight Transportation Services (FTA)
- Website: www.fta.dot.gov
- Description: The Federal Transit Administration offers resources on regulations, funding opportunities, and training programs related to freight transportation.
National Association of Small Trucking Companies (NASTC)
- Website: www.nastc.com
- Description: This organization supports small trucking companies with relevant resources, including billing and operational guidance.
Institute for Supply Management (ISM)
- Website: www.ismworld.org
- Description: ISM provides resources for supply chain management professionals, including articles, webinars, and certification programs.
Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
- Website: www.cscmp.org
- Description: CSCMP offers education, research, and networking opportunities tailored for supply chain and logistics professionals.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Transportation and Material Moving Occupations
- Website: www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/home.htm
- Description: The BLS provides statistical data about job outlooks, salary expectations, and employment trends relevant to freight billing specialists.
American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L)
- Website: www.astl.org
- Description: This organization focuses on professional development and education in transportation and logistics, providing various resources for individuals in the field.
Logistics Management Magazine
- Website: www.logisticsmgmt.com
- Description: This publication offers articles, news, and insights on transportation, supply chain, and logistics trends.
FreightWaves
- Website: www.freightwaves.com
- Description: FreightWaves provides news and analysis in the freight industry, including market trends and educational content for billing specialists.
LinkedIn Learning
- Website: www.linkedin.com/learning
- Description: Access a wide range of courses focused on logistics and billing practices, including software training and industry-specific topics.
National Freight Advisory Committee
- Website: www.transportation.gov
- Description: This committee advises the U.S. Department of Transportation on policy issues facing the freight sector, providing insights into regulatory matters.
Utilizing these resources will enhance your knowledge and skills as a Freight Billing Specialist, providing you with industry insights, professional development opportunities, and networking options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico
What does a Freight Billing Specialist do?
As a Freight Billing Specialist, you manage the billing and invoicing processes related to freight shipments. Your responsibilities include verifying shipment details, calculating freight charges, preparing invoices, and resolving billing discrepancies.What qualifications do I need to become a Freight Billing Specialist?
A high school diploma is typically required, although an associate degree in accounting or business may be preferred. Familiarity with accounting principles, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in accounting software are also valuable.What skills are important for this role?
Essential skills include attention to detail, effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and strong organizational skills. Proficiency in Excel and other financial software is also beneficial.What industries employ Freight Billing Specialists?
Freight Billing Specialists are needed in various industries, including transportation, logistics, shipping companies, and warehouses. Any organization involved in freight movement may require your services.What is the typical salary for a Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico?
The salary for a Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico can vary depending on experience and the specific company. On average, you can expect to earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually.What are the advancement opportunities in this field?
With experience, you could advance to positions such as Billing Manager, Accounts Receivable Supervisor, or even roles in finance and accounting departments. Continuing education and certifications can further enhance your career prospects.Is certification necessary for this role?
While certification is not mandatory, obtaining certifications such as Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) or similar credentials can improve your job prospects and provide a competitive edge.What are common challenges faced by Freight Billing Specialists?
Common challenges include dealing with billing disputes, maintaining accurate records, and staying updated on regulatory changes in shipping and billing practices. Adaptability and strong communication skills can help you navigate these issues.How can I find job opportunities as a Freight Billing Specialist in New Mexico?
You can search for job openings on online job boards, company websites, and through networking. Local staffing agencies that specialize in logistics and finance may also have listings.What programs or software should I be familiar with?
Familiarizing yourself with industry-standard software such as SAP, QuickBooks, or other freight management systems will be beneficial. Proficiency in Excel is also important for managing data and performing calculations.