If you are in importing and want to ease business operations, working with a customs broker is an absolute must. For the unversed, all customs brokers in the US are licensed by Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and may refer to a partnership, individual, or association. While there is no rule that states that working with a customs broker is mandatory for importers, most businesses do rely on the popular ones, such as ClearitUSA FBA. So, what can a customs broker do for your business? What to expect when you are working with one? In this post, we are sharing some of the basic things worth knowing. 

What services do customs brokers offer?

An experienced customs broker can help you clear goods and cargo at any and all ports in the US, including inland shipments. Your customs broker will ensure that your goods get cleared at the border without much fuss, and they will take care of the paperwork and other aspects involved. Truck, ocean, air and parcel shipments can be handled by customs brokers, and many of them rely on advanced software, which can automate many tasks, which further assures quick clearance. Many customs brokers also have the experience of consulting, and they can handle any of the logistical concerns that may emerge during the course of operations. If you are planning to expand your business to new sectors, your customs broker can help you take the right decisions. 

How to find the right option?

While customs brokers are licensed by CBP and have a good understanding of all relevant customs-related aspects in general, not every broker is the same. Experience is a key factor to consider when you look for customs brokers, and make sure that you check their work process in general. Many of them work extensively with new and emerging importing businesses, so they are well-versed with the common challenges. Customs brokers are expected to have impeccable understanding of trade laws, and they will do what it takes to ease operations. From applying tariff codes, to paying duties and other expenses on your behalf, they will take over, so that you can focus on core operations. 

As you may have guessed, working with customs brokers is not really a choice, unless you want to waste all your time in tracking various changes in importing requirements. Check for a customs broker with at least three decades of experience.