Inside Sales Representative – Packaging Solutions in Huntley, Illinois at SMG Industries LLC

Position Summary

The Inside Sales Representative is responsible for supporting and growing customer accounts while actively pursuing new business opportunities within the packaging industry. This role combines strong customer service and account management with a proactive sales mindset focused on identifying opportunities and driving revenue growth.

The position involves quoting, order management, and relationship development for corrugated packaging, custom boxes, pallets, lumber, and other packaging materials. The Inside Sales Representative will work closely with customers, outside sales, purchasing, and operations to deliver accurate quotes, secure new business, and ensure timely delivery of packaging solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Customer Support & Account Management
• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned customers for daily packaging needs.
• Respond to customer inquiries regarding packaging products, pricing, availability, and specifications.
• Maintain strong relationships with customers through responsive communication and problem resolution.
• Support outside sales representatives by managing quotes, follow-ups, and internal coordination.
• Sales & Business Development
• Identify and pursue new sales opportunities through phone outreach, email communication, and referrals.
• Prospect companies that use corrugated packaging, pallets, lumber, and related packaging materials.
• Grow existing accounts by introducing additional packaging products and solutions.
• Follow up consistently on open quotes to convert opportunities into orders.
• Quoting & Pricing
• Prepare and deliver accurate quotes for corrugated boxes, custom packaging, pallets, lumber, and other packaging materials.
• Work with vendors and internal purchasing teams to source pricing and lead times.
• Review customer specifications including box dimensions, board grades, flute types, and packaging requirements.
• Ensure quotes are returned to customers quickly (goal of 24–48 hours).
• Order Entry & Order Management
• Enter and process customer orders accurately in the company ERP or CRM system.
• Confirm order details including pricing, specifications, delivery dates, and quantities.
• Track orders and communicate status updates to customers.
• Coordinate with operations and vendors to ensure on-time delivery.
• Product Knowledge & Packaging Support
• Develop strong knowledge of corrugated packaging styles, materials, and applications.
• Assist customers in selecting the most cost-effective packaging solutions.
• Understand packaging terminology including box styles, flute types, board grades, and pallet specifications.
• Internal Coordination
• Work closely with purchasing, logistics, and operations to ensure efficient order fulfillment.
• Communicate customer requirements clearly to internal teams.
• Maintain accurate records of quotes, orders, and sales activity.

Qualifications

Required

• 2+ years of inside sales, customer service, or B2B sales experience
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational ability
• Ability to manage multiple quotes and orders simultaneously
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/CRM systems

Preferred

Experience in the packaging industry, particularly corrugated packaging

Knowledge of box styles, board grades, and packaging specifications

Experience sourcing or purchasing packaging materials

Key Competencies

• Customer-focused mindset
• Proactive sales and opportunity identification
• Strong follow-up discipline
• Problem-solving and negotiation skills
• Time management and prioritization
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Performance Expectations / KPIs
• Quotes returned within 24–48 hours
• High accuracy in order entry and order management
• Consistent quote generation and pipeline activity
• Growth of existing accounts through cross-selling packaging solutions
• New customer opportunities identified and developed
• Same-day response to customer inquiries
• Strong coordination with purchasing and operations to meet delivery commitments