Customs Brokers Key Terms

Learn more about the job and requirements of a customs broker

Customs brokers are the link between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and various importers and exporters. A customs broker helps individuals and companies fill out all of the necessary documents for importing and exporting. The broker also searches for applicable taxes and fees for any goods exiting or entering the United States, and informs the company what they need to pay. The customs broker can work independently or in-house for an import/export business.

 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency works through the Department of Homeland Security to regulate border security and trade. The CBP is the governing body that can license a customs broker.
Try: The U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency provides information and regulations on trade and cargo security for importers/exporters.

Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is a resource used by customs brokers to determine what tariff classifications goods fall into.
Try: The United States International Trade Commission provides an updated version of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule in electronic format.

Title 19, Code of Federal Regulations

Title 19 of the Code of Federal Regulations provides regulations on import/export through the CBP, International Trade Commission and the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. A customs broker must be knowledgeable on title 19 to be licensed.
Try: The Cornell University Law School provides links to the full text of Title 19 on its website.

International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations (IFCBA)

The International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations is a professional organization for customs brokers around the world. This organization provides educational and networking opportunities.
Try: IFCBA provides information on the benefits of membership and how a customs broker can become a member of the organization.

National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA)

The National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America is a professional organization for customs brokers working in the United States. Membership in this association provides many benefits for customs brokers.
Try: The NCBFAA is a resource for customs brokers to find educational opportunities, networking and advocacy of the industry.

Customs broker license

Anyone who wants to work as a customs broker must take and pass a licensing exam. The licensing exam covers all of the tariffs, rules and regulations in Title 19.
Try: Learn more about obtaining a customs broker license from the American Customs Association.

Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---