What does a customs broker actually do?
A licensed customs broker helps transact customs business on behalf of clients. The work combines authority, product and transaction analysis, entry preparation, communication, recordkeeping, and exception handling.
The four-step journey
A fast tour of client onboarding, document review, classification, valuation, entry, agency data, duty, exceptions, and post-entry work.
- Know and authorize the client
- Turn documents into supported entry data
- Transmit and resolve responses
- Preserve evidence and manage corrections
What the broker checks
- Valid power of attorney and client identity
- Supported classification, value, origin, and PGA data
- CBP messages, deadlines, funds, and records
Why it matters
The visible filing is the last mile. Most broker value lives in the decisions and controls before and after transmission.
- Customs business: Activities defined in broker regulations that require a license when conducted for others.
Official sources
- 19 CFR Part 111 — Customs Brokers
- CBP — Customs Broker License Examination
- 19 CFR Part 141 — Entry of Merchandise