January 17th, 2025
Written By: Wallace Hester, Director of Sales at Rogers & Brown
The role of Customs brokers and freight forwarders has always been evolving. Their goal and value proposition have always been to support their customers, importers, and exporters in finding success through efficient handling and cost-saving service offerings. The service functions that began as seemingly simple Customs filings and export declarations have evolved into more complex import and export programs, including a myriad of logistical functions.
The key to success has largely been about streamlining the complicated elements of international logistics into simple service solutions for importers and exporters. Today, the evolution continues, and Customs brokers and freight forwarders must support importers and exporters as they navigate today’s ever-changing trade environment. The goal has not changed, and the dynamic environment offers an opportunity to provide greater value to our clients.
The recent speed of this service evolution is striking as it has seemingly increased more over the last 5 years than in all previous 3 decades combined. The accelerated speed is in large part attributable to:
The result has been a continuous application of additional data elements to the import and export process, requiring greater protocol and compliance controls. Transportation costs now fluctuate more regularly and require greater strategy and supply chain planning in order to make the best of every freight dollar. Importers and shippers have no choice but to accept the increased burden and often rely on their skilled Customs broker/freight forwarder for support and guidance. Wise and dedicated brokers and forwarders have embraced the opportunity by providing intangible services of:
To be successful, service providers will continue to invest in technology and other tools to increase productivity and bring greater visibility to their clients. Custom brokers and freight forwarders must continue to expand their expertise through ongoing compliance training and employee development. Most importantly, Custom brokers and freight forwarders must remain flexible to meet the needs of their clients while embracing any change.
The task may be greater than in years past, but the goal and value proposition remain the same: to provide a service to customers that allows them to succeed in their business. Successful and committed Customs brokers and freight forwarders will continue to provide the support that allows their clients to succeed and generates lasting partnerships.
Stay tuned for future articles that will discuss how to best manage international logistics and Customs compliance in today’s dynamic and ever-evolving landscape.