What is a Customs Broker?

Customs brokers are individuals, companies, or associations that help importers bring goods into the United States. They can help streamline the process for meeting federal importing laws. Other issues that complicate the process of moving goods between countries are taxes, duties, and excises that must be paid. Specific paperwork is also required when importing or exporting products. Customs brokers help with all of that.

Why Would You Need a Customs Broker?

Customs brokers are experts in the field of importing, and they know all the laws, documentation necessary, and particulars related to importing specific types of goods. Their knowledge is highly valuable and can help you in many ways. Some of the things they can assist with include:

• Entry procedures – Following all proper entry procedures. 
• Classification – Classifying your products correctly to avoid any mistakes.
• Valuation – Calculating the proper value for fees.
• Admissibility requirements – Help ensure that your goods meet regulations and are appropriately packaged for entry into the U.S. 
• Duties, taxes, and other fees – Pay your duties, taxes, and additional fees applicable to your goods. 
• Documents and compliance – Help you fill out the required documents to comply with all state and federal regulations. 
• Help reduce costs – Your customs brokers may have methods of helping you save money when moving products between countries. 
• Help with customs declarations. 
• Formal entry – When you use a customs broker, your products are typically allowed in the country quicker. Customs brokers can help clear shipments more efficiently. 

Keep in mind that regulations are constantly changing, so something that was permissible a year ago may be different today. A customs broker keeps up with all the changing rules to help customers import their goods successfully into the country. 

Additionally, a good customs broker can help you expand your business into other markets and provide advice about other aspects of business operations. 

How to Find a Customs Broker

Customs brokers must be licensed to operate in the U.S. Many form partnerships with freight companies, shipping lines, or operate as friends or associates of freight forwarders. 

Contact Southern Companies today, and we can help you find a knowledgeable, trusted customs broker to navigate the complex waters of international commerce. 

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