Description:
We are seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Associate, Customs Operations, to join our team. You will assist in preparing and submitting customs documentation for import shipments, ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs regulations. This role involves working closely with clients, carriers, and customs officials to ensure timely clearance of goods. Ideal for someone with 6 months to 1 year of experience in customs operations, looking to grow in the logistics industry.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare, review, and submit customs documentation for import shipments in compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.
- Ensure proper tariff classification, valuation, and determination of duty rates for imported goods.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of customs regulations, including changes to tariff schedules, trade agreements, and compliance requirements.
- Act as the primary point of contact for clients, providing guidance on customs procedures, documentation, and regulatory requirements.
- Assist clients with import/export strategies to minimize duties, taxes, and delays while ensuring compliance.
- Provide timely updates to clients on the status of their shipments and customs clearance processes.
- Prepare and process import entry documentation, including bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
- Maintain accurate and complete records of all transactions, ensuring compliance with CBP audit requirements.
- Assist in the preparation of responses to CBP inquiries, including requests for information, audits, and entry reconciliations.
- Coordinate with freight forwarders, carriers, and customs officials to ensure the timely clearance of goods through U.S. customs.
- Address and resolve any issues that may arise during the customs clearance process, including discrepancies in documentation or shipment delays.
- Monitor and track shipments to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and procedures.
- Stay current on U.S. import/export laws and regulations, including updates to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
- Advise clients on customs regulations and provide training to internal teams on compliance issues.
- Prepare and issue invoices for customs brokerage services, duties, taxes, and other related fees.
- Coordinate the collection and payment of duties, taxes, and other fees on behalf of clients to ensure timely customs clearance.
- Monitor and manage accounts receivable, ensuring that payments are received and processed in a timely manner.
- Address and resolve any billing or payment discrepancies, working closely with clients and the finance department.
- Resolve client concerns related to customs matters promptly and professionally.
- Work with clients to resolve classification issues, tariff disputes, and other customs-related challenges.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in International Trade, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 6 months to 1 year of experience in customs coordination, import/export, or a related role.
- Familiarity with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and procedures.
- Proficiency in using customs clearance software and systems.
- Understanding of trade agreements, tariff schedules, and regulatory changes affecting customs processes.
- Strong communication skills to act as the primary point of contact for clients.
- Strong analytical skills to resolve classification issues, tariff disputes, and other customs-related challenges.
- Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple shipments and ensure timely customs clearance.
- Ability to monitor and track shipments to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and procedures.
- Ability to work closely with freight forwarders, carriers, customs officials, and internal teams.
- Ability to stay current on changes to customs regulations, trade agreements, and compliance requirements.
- Willingness to adapt to evolving industry standards and client needs.