Expert US customs broker services for hassle-free importing.

While you’re not legally required to hire a US customs broker for every shipment, doing so can greatly simplify the process and ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations. A US customs broker is especially beneficial for shipments that involve complex or high-value goods, new importers, or those unfamiliar with the intricate requirements of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Here’s why you might want to consider a customs broker for every shipment:

• Compliance Assurance: A customs broker ensures that all necessary documentation is submitted correctly, such as invoices, bills of lading, and certificates of origin. Proper documentation is key to avoiding customs delays, fines, or penalties.
• Time Savings: Customs regulations can be complex and time-consuming to navigate on your own. A US customs broker helps expedite the process, ensuring that your goods clear customs efficiently and without delay.
• Avoiding Delays: If you are importing products for the first time or if your goods are flagged for inspection, a customs broker can help resolve any issues promptly, minimizing the risk of customs holds or shipment delays.
• Navigating Duty and Tax Calculations: Customs duties and taxes can vary depending on the product type, origin, and value. A customs broker ensures that these are calculated accurately, preventing overpayment or fines due to misclassification.

For smaller shipments, it might seem tempting to go without a customs broker, but using one can ultimately save time and money, and prevent the headaches associated with navigating US customs regulations on your own.

To ensure smooth customs clearance, you’ll need to provide several key documents to your customs broker:

1. Commercial Invoice – Details the transaction, including product description, value, and origin.
2. Bill of Lading (or Airway Bill) – Proof of shipment, including shipper and consignee information.
3. Packing List – A breakdown of goods by package, including dimensions and weight.
4. Country of Origin Certificate – Verifies where the goods were made, important for tariffs and trade agreements.
5. Import Security Filing (ISF) – Required for ocean shipments, detailing cargo information before loading.
6. Customs Bond – A guarantee for payment of duties and taxes.
7. HS Code – A tariff classification number to determine duty rates.
8. Import Licenses/Permits – Required for regulated goods like food, chemicals, or medical products.
9. Health and Safety Certifications – Required for certain products (e.g., FDA or USDA certifications).

Providing accurate documents helps prevent delays and ensures compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

A customs bond is a financial guarantee required by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to ensure that duties, taxes, and fees are paid and that goods comply with U.S. regulations. There are two types:

• Single Entry Bond: Covers a single shipment
• Continuous Bond: Covers multiple shipments over a year, ideal for businesses that import regularly

You’ll typically need a customs bond if:

• You’re importing goods for commercial purposes.
• Your shipment is valued over $2,500.
• You’re importing regulated goods (e.g., food, pharmaceuticals).

A customs bond ensures compliance, avoids delays, and prevents penalties. Your US customs broker can help you determine the right bond and handle the filing process.

If your goods are held up at customs, it usually means there’s an issue with the shipment that needs to be addressed. Common reasons for delays include:

1. Missing or Incorrect Documentation: This is one of the most frequent causes of delays. Incomplete invoices, incorrect HS codes, or discrepancies in declared value may prompt customs to hold your goods for further inspection. Your customs broker will assist in correcting and submitting the necessary documents.
2. Classification or Valuation Issues: If customs questions the classification of your goods or the declared value for duty purposes, they may hold the shipment until it’s clarified. Your broker can provide the necessary details to resolve this quickly.
3. Product Compliance Issues: Regulated goods, such as food, drugs, or chemicals, may require additional permits or certifications (e.g., FDA approval). If these are missing, customs will delay the shipment until the requirements are met. Your US customs broker will help ensure all regulatory obligations are fulfilled.

In most cases, your customs broker will work with customs officials to resolve the issues, ensuring that your goods clear quickly and without further complication.

Yes, we can assist with a wide range of logistics services beyond customs clearance, offering comprehensive support for your shipments:

1. Freight Forwarding: Coordinating the transportation of goods from origin to destination, including carrier selection and route optimization.
2. Warehousing and Distribution: Storing and managing inventory, order fulfillment, and distribution across the U.S. or internationally.
3. Cargo Insurance: Arranging insurance to protect your goods during transit.
4. Trade Consulting: Offering guidance on trade agreements, tariffs, and compliance.