No matter if you are a first-time importer or working for a multi-national company searching for a change from a legacy broker, there are very similar characteristics you should consider when selecting a customs broker.
If you are like most people, you may have never heard of a Customs broker (until you need one). People not involved in international business or supply chains have never needed the services a Customs broker provides. As soon as you do, you will undoubtedly have a lot of questions.
Most importers will be looking for a Customs broker who can provide expertise, assist with product classifications, ask questions to ensure correct information is being documented, complete audits, and simply become a partner to you and your company. Further, importers have different needs depending on buying strategies, Incoterms, inventory practices and/or routing preferences. In some cases, an importer may work with a forwarder that does not provide Customs brokerage services, or an importer may bundle forwarding and Customs brokerage service with a single provider (we have covered this topic in a previous article). In other cases, the importer may want to choose the Customs broker in order to better ensure Customs compliance for their import transactions.
Here are some key factors to consider when vetting a Customs broker:
Other factors will arise when talking directly with the Customs brokers under consideration. Still, by carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a Customs broker that best suits your requirements and supports smooth and compliant international operations.