Customs brokerage is the professional service of helping importers and exporters clear goods through customs. A customs broker prepares and submits customs entries, classifies products, calculates duties and taxes, reviews documentation, coordinates with government agencies, and helps ensure shipments comply with import and export regulations. Customs brokerage is important because mistakes in valuation, origin, tariff classification, permits, or documentation can delay cargo, increase costs, or create compliance penalties. Customs brokerage firms employ licensed brokers and support staff to handle all aspects of the clearance process. When a broker pays duties or taxes on the importer’s behalf, it may also bill a disbursement service fee for advancing those funds.
- Filing formal and informal entries with CBP
- HTS classification and duty calculation
- Coordinating with FDA, USDA, CPSC, and other agencies on regulated imports
- Managing compliance programs and responding to CBP audits
- Advising clients on duty savings, FTA utilization, and import risk management
Choosing an experienced customs brokerage firm with expertise in your product category reduces compliance risk and clearance delays. For Dedola’s own service, see customs brokerage and customs clearance with Dedola. CBP also holds licensed brokers to responsible supervision and control, meaning they must actively oversee entries, records, and client instructions.
Related terms: Customs Entry, Importer of Record.
