Why Should I use a Customs Broker?

Why should I use a Customs Broker? There are many benefits including:

• Expertise: Customs brokers have a deep understanding of customs laws and regulations, and can help you ensure that your shipments comply with all requirements. This can help you avoid delays, fines, and penalties.
• Efficiency: Customs brokers can streamline the customs clearance process for you, saving you time and hassle. They can also help you avoid costly mistakes.
• Representation: Customs brokers can represent you before the customs authorities, and advocate on your behalf if any problems arise.
• Peace of mind: Using a customs broker can give you peace of mind knowing that your shipments are in good hands. You can focus on your business while the customs broker takes care of the rest.

Here are some specific examples of why you should use a customs broker:

• Classify your goods correctly: Customs brokers can help you classify your goods correctly, which is important for determining the applicable duty rates and taxes.
• Prepare the required documentation: Customs brokers can prepare all of the required documentation for your shipment, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
• File your customs entries: Customs brokers can file your customs entries electronically, which can help expedite the clearance process.
• Arrange for payment of duties and taxes: Customs brokers can arrange for payment of duties and taxes on your behalf, so you don’t have to worry about it.
• Track and trace your shipments: Customs brokers can track and trace your shipments throughout the customs clearance process, and keep you updated on their status.

Overall, using a customs broker can save you time, money, and hassle. It is especially important to use a customs broker if you are new to importing or exporting, or if you are importing or exporting complex or high-value goods.

How to Find a Customs Broker

The following link is to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website for finding a customs broker: https://www.cbp.gov/about/contact/find-broker-by-port. It is important to note that the CBP does not recommend or endorse any particular customs broker. Once you have found a list of potential brokers, you can contact them to learn more about their services and fees. You should also check their references and make sure that they are licensed and insured. Here are some tips for choosing a customs broker:

• Make sure the broker is licensed and insured.
• Check the broker’s references.
• Get multiple quotes from different brokers.
• Choose a broker that has experience with the type of goods you are importing or exporting.
• Choose a broker that is located near your business or port of entry.

It is important to note that the CBP does not recommend or endorse any particular customs broker.

Providing the Required Customs Bond

Now that you have found a customs broker, you will need to provide a customs bond prior to importing into the country. If you are only importing 1 or 2 times a year, it is probably beneficial to purchase the bond from the customs broker. The broker will usually charge a small parentage of the value of the import. If you plan to import several times during the year or the value of what you are importing is high, you may want to consider purchasing a continuous customs bond from SURETY1.COM. The minimum bond amount is $50,000, but the bond amount must be at least 10% of your estimated duties, taxes, and fees. In most cases, customs bonds can be purchase for just $349.00 per year. Click Here for a Free No Obligation Quote.

Surety1.com is a service of AssuredPartners one of the largest and fastest growing insurance agencies in the nation. Representing over a dozen surety bond companies, Surety1.com is the premier online provider of surety bonds nationwide since 2003.