Every commercial shipment entering the US legally requires a customs entry — and for most importers, that entry is filed by a licensed customs broker, not the importer directly. But what a broker actually does day to day is often unclear until something goes wrong.
Filing the Entry Isn't the Whole Job
Submitting the entry to CBP is the visible part of the job, but a good broker is doing several things before that filing ever happens: verifying HTS classification, confirming the correct duty rate and any trade program eligibility, checking for required permits or licenses (FDA, USDA, EPA, and others depending on product), and flagging anything likely to trigger an exam.
Licensed, Not Just Experienced
Customs brokers are federally licensed by CBP after passing a rigorous exam and background check — this isn't a title anyone can claim. Ask for a broker's license number if you're not sure; it's public information and any legitimate broker will provide it without hesitation.
What a Good Broker Catches Before It Costs You
- Misclassified HTS codes that would trigger over- or under-payment of duty
- Missing licenses or permits for regulated products (food, electronics with radio components, chemicals)
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation that would delay release
- Eligibility for trade programs (USMCA, GSP where applicable) that lower your duty bill
The cost of a broker is small compared to the cost of a bad entry — penalties for misclassification or undervaluation can run into multiples of the duty owed.