Why do I need a broker to clear customs?
Intimately familiar with import procedures and regulations, a licensed broker makes sure you provide all the data for your filings, double-checks that information for accuracy and meets deadlines for transmitting documentation to Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
No, you don't need one, but we strongly recommend you use one regardless. Though you can clear your own shipment with customs, a good customs broker is a professional with wealth of experience in this specific task. They will make the process much easier by helping you avoid penalties and delays.
A customs broker helps you understand requirements for import or export, obtains necessary clearances and submits paperwork and payments to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on your behalf. Their industry expertise makes them valuable assets for businesses importing and exporting goods.
Guidance: Customs brokers can guide you through the whole importing process from classifying the goods and advising on the existing laws and regulations in that country, to acting as a liaison between the importer and the government.
Most brokers begin with a base charge of about $40 and add on from there. Flat rates typically vary between $200 to $400, but prices may change based on the state of the economy. There are two types of customs bonds brokers can arrange on behalf of their clients.
If no arrangements were made to forward the goods to your door, you will need to either clear them through CBP yourself, in which case you will pay duty directly to CBP at the port where your goods arrived. Alternatively, you will need to arrange for a broker to clear your goods.
Knowing whether or not a customs broker is needed is one of the many things that leaves first-time importers scratching their heads. According to Customs and Border Protection (CBP), you will need a customs broker if the goods you are importing are regulated by another government agency.
Customs brokers may charge for services in various ways: Flat Fee: Some charge a flat fee for each shipment, regardless of its value or complexity. Per-Entry Fee: This fee is charged for each customs entry or declaration processed.
Customs brokerage services in the U.S. and Canada will be provided by FedEx Trade Networks Transport & Brokerage, Inc.
A Customs Broker plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade by ensuring that goods comply with customs regulations and requirements. They are responsible for managing the import and export of goods, completing necessary paperwork, and coordinating with various government agencies and customs authorities.
Who uses customs brokers?
Customs brokers are private individuals, partnerships, associations or corporations licensed, regulated and empowered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to assist importers and exporters in meeting Federal requirements governing imports and exports.
A - Customs can be dauting and complex if you lack the knowledge and resources to do it in-house. A Customs Agent can help you with fast and reliable completion of customs declarations to ensure your business remains compliant.
A custom broker helps the buyer and seller during the import and export process, while the Custom Agent is working on behalf of the government as a law enforcement and keeping the international trades under check across the border.
US Customs collects this fee on most shipments that enter the country. It's calculated at 0.3464% of the entered value (the cost of the merchandise, as entered on the commercial invoice you provide to your customs broker), with a minimum of $27.23 and a maximum of $528.33.
The customs clearance fee is paid directly to the customs broker or customs clearance agent to cover the cost of submitting documentation and processing duties payment. This can be charged as a flat for per service, as one price for a bundle of services, or as a percentage of the shipment value.
You'll need to pay customs duty (or import tax) on any goods you move across the US border from other countries, though goods from some countries are exempt due to different international trade agreements. The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces customs rules.
Allow enough time: Customs can be time-consuming, especially during peak travel periods. Make sure you allow enough time to clear customs and get to your connecting flight. As a general rule, it's best to allow at least two hours for international layovers.
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States by accessing the Global Entry processing technology at selected airports.
- Inspection of Documents.
- Tax and Duty Payment.
- Shipment Release.
- Ensure Documentation Is Accurate.
- Always Check International Trade Laws.
- Consider What Goods You're Shipping.
- Expect Multiple Customs Clearance Checks.
- Calculate Your Tax and Duties.
UPS offers a wide variety of door-to-door services with guaranteed delivery schedules and customs brokerage.
How to choose a custom broker?
Before you choose a customs broker, it is important to do your research. Ask around, look at reviews, and consult with friends or family who have dealt with customs brokers in the past. Make sure you are getting a reputable company that has experience and expertise in the shipping industry.
Additional Information an Officer Can Get About You
If an officer believes there is a reason to get even more information about you, they may be able to get: Any criminal history you have. Your citizenship status. Employment information.
Customs Entry Fee. Is a brokerage fee for releasing and accounting for a regular one line import shipment, which does not require paper release or any additional services, and can be submitted utilizing EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) system. for a Low Value shipment.
What they do. Businesses hire a broker to clear their goods through customs, which includes tracking shipments, filing customs entries, and paying duties and fees. Other tasks vary, depending on the size and type of the employer.
DHL Duty Drawback Services is a licensed customs brokerage firm with over 30 years of experience.
