Customs Broker
A customs broker is a professional who helps importers and exporters navigate the complexities of customs regulations. They ensure that shipments meet all legal requirements for entry.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Customs Broker
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Junior Customs Broker, you will play a key role in the import and export process by ensuring that client shipments comply with all applicable laws to facilitate the import and export of goods. You will be working closely with clients, customs officials, and shipping companies to ensure a smooth and legal transfer of goods across international borders.
Required Skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Effective communication skills, both written and oral.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications, especially Excel.
- Ability to multitask and prioritize work effectively.
- Customer service oriented.
Qualifications
- Associate's degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school; or six months to one year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Basic understanding of customs regulations and documentation.
- Eligibility to apply for or possession of a Customs Broker License is preferred.
- Knowledge of Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and Schedule B numbers.
- Proficiency in using customs brokerage software and systems.
Responsibilities
- Classify shipment items with accurate HS codes to determine the correct customs tariffs.
- Prepare and submit all necessary customs documentation required for the clearance of goods.
- Communicate with clients regarding the requirements, regulations, and procedures related to the import and export of their goods.
- Coordinate with customs officials and other regulatory agencies to resolve any issues that may arise during the clearance process.
- Maintain current knowledge of all customs laws, tariffs, and regulations.
- Provide cost estimates and duty/tax calculations for shipments.
- Monitor the status of shipments until they clear customs and confirm delivery completion.
- Engage in continuing education to maintain customs broker license and stay informed about changes in trade regulations.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As an intermediate Customs Broker, you will be responsible for ensuring that international shipments meet all applicable laws, facilitating the import/export process, and acting as a liaison between importers/exporters and the government. You will work to optimize the customs processes and ensure compliance with all regulations.
Required Skills
- Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills
- Strong attention to detail and ability to analyze complex data
- Good problem-solving skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently
- Proficient in customs brokerage software and Microsoft Office suite
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
Qualifications
- Licensed Customs Broker with valid certification.
- 2-5 years of experience in customs, international trade, or a related field.
- Familiarity with customs regulations and documentation requirements for importing and exporting goods.
- Experience with tariff classifications, value determination, and duty assessment.
- Strong understanding of international transportation modes and logistics.
- Knowledge of Free Trade Agreements and their application in customs operations.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and process import and export documentation according to customs regulations, laws, or procedures.
- Advise clients on import and export restrictions, tariff systems, insurance requirements, quotas, or other customs-related matters.
- Calculate payable duties or tariffs on merchandise being imported.
- Stay current on changes in regulations and inform clients or other interested parties of these changes.
- Coordinate transportation and storage of imported goods.
- Submit or transmit transaction details to customs authorities to obtain release of incoming freight and resolve delays or other issues.
- Review commercial documents to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.
- Collaborate with customs agents, delivery services, and other partners to ensure smooth transactions.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Customs Broker to manage the import and export process for our clients' goods. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring compliance with government regulations, providing tariff and trade consultancy, and efficiently handling customs procedures.
Required Skills
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite and customs brokerage software.
Qualifications
- Licensed Customs Broker certification.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience as a customs broker or in a similar role within the freight forwarding/logistics industry.
- Thorough knowledge of customs regulations, classification and valuation, and the entry process.
- Experience in using customs brokerage software systems.
- Proven track record of managing compliance within the customs brokerage function.
- Strong understanding of import/export documentation and shipping procedures.
Responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with federal and international regulations pertaining to the import and export of goods.
- Classify goods according to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule and prepare the necessary documentation for customs clearance.
- Communicate with clients, customs officials, and other stakeholders to facilitate smooth and timely shipments.
- Provide consultancy services regarding tariff rates, trade agreements, and duty savings strategies.
- Stay informed of changes in customs regulations and inform clients of the potential impacts on their shipments.
- Manage multiple client accounts and ensure all customs brokerage activities are completed accurately and on time.
- Resolve any customs holds or delays and troubleshoot complex customs-related issues.
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