What Does a Customs Broker Actually Do?

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THE FREIGHT DESK WEEKLY NEWS

Why You Need a Customs Broker
Importing into the U.S. (or almost anywhere) without a licensed customs broker is like trying to land a plane with no tower.

They do what you don’t see — filing the right documents, calculating tariffs, classifying goods with HS codes, and making sure your shipment clears legally and smoothly.

Without a broker, you risk:

  • Fines for non-compliance

  • Delays at customs

  • Seizure or return of goods

🧠 Pro Insight: Even small shipments or e-commerce parcels from China often require a broker — especially post-COVID with tighter enforcement.

Coming next week: What freight forwarders actually do (and why you want one on your side).