Importer Compliance Corner: Shopping Around for a Customs Broker? Don't Just Look for the Lowest Price.
When shopping around for a Customs Broker, it's natural to compare clearance fees, turnaround times, and services. But there's something equally important you should consider:
Is the Customs Broker telling you what you need to hear, or simply what you want to hear?
A Customs Broker who asks questions, requests additional documentation, identifies discrepancies, or raises compliance concerns isn't necessarily making the importing process more difficult. They may be helping you avoid costly penalties, shipment delays, and enforcement actions.
Under 19 CFR § 111.39(c), Licensed Customs Brokers are required to advise their clients of known noncompliance, errors, or omissions and appropriate corrective actions.
However, hiring a Customs Broker does not eliminate your responsibilities as an importer.
Under 19 U.S.C. § 1484, importers are responsible for exercising reasonable care in providing accurate and complete information for Customs entry.
Before choosing a Customs Broker, ask yourself:
Does this broker explain compliance concerns rather than overlook them?
Does this broker ask questions to verify the accuracy of my shipment information?
Does this broker explain my responsibilities as an importer?
Is this broker willing to tell me when something needs to be corrected, even if it delays the clearance process?
Remember: The cheapest clearance isn't always the least expensive decision.
A Customs Broker should not sell you the dream of importing without responsibilities. They should help you understand the regulatory requirements, identify compliance risks, and take appropriate corrective action.
Choose a Customs Broker who tells you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear.
Your compliance matters long after your shipment has cleared Customs.
Just Your Broker Inc.
Your Customs Clearance & Trade Compliance Partner
Regulatory References: 19 CFR § 111.39(c) | 19 U.S.C. § 1484
Comments