Customs Broker

Your Fit

Income

$78K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

4.6%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Customs Broker?

A Customs Broker is a licensed professional who assists clients in clearing shipments through customs barriers. They ensure compliance with all laws and regulations governing the import and export of goods.

Sample job titles:

Corporate Licensed Broker, Customs Broker

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Customs Broker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Customs Broker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$46K per year	$59K per year	$78K per year	$105K per year	$130K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $29K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Customs Broker do?

Work environment

Customs Brokers typically work in offices, but may also visit ports, warehouses, or government agencies. They often interact with clients, customs officials, and shipping companies.

Quick task list

Classifies goods according to tariff coding system.
Prepares and submits required import/export documentation.
Advises clients on import/export restrictions, tariffs, and insurance.
Ensures compliance with federal and international trade regulations.
Liaises between shipping companies, carriers, and customs officials.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Tariff Classification: Specializing in the correct classification of goods for tariff purposes.
Regulatory Compliance: Expertise in ensuring adherence to trade laws and regulations.
Logistics and Freight Coordination: Specializing in the logistics of shipping goods internationally.

Description

Customs Brokers play a critical role in international trade by facilitating the import and export of goods across borders. Their expertise in tariff and customs regulations helps clients avoid costly delays, fines, or legal issues. They must stay current with changing laws and trade agreements, which requires continuous learning and adaptation.

They work with a variety of documentation and must be detail-oriented to ensure accuracy. Strong communication skills are essential, as they frequently interact with government officials, clients, and international shipping entities.

The job can be fast-paced and deadline-driven, especially when handling perishable goods or time-sensitive shipments. Customs Brokers need to be problem-solvers, capable of finding quick and effective solutions to clear goods through customs efficiently.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a key role in facilitating international trade.
The challenge of navigating complex regulatory environments.
Opportunities to interact with a diverse range of professionals and industries.

You might make a good Customs Broker if you are...

Detail-oriented, ensuring all documentation and classifications are accurate.
Interested in international trade and logistics.
A good communicator, able to liaise between various parties effectively.
Adaptable to changing regulations and environments.
Analytical, with a knack for problem-solving under pressure.

Pros:

Involvement in the dynamic field of international trade.
Opportunities for career growth and specialization.
Intellectual challenge in dealing with diverse regulations and procedures.

Cons:

High responsibility and potential stress due to the nature of international regulations.
Need to constantly update knowledge due to changing trade laws.
Sometimes long and irregular hours.

How to become a Customs Broker

Typical education

This role generally requires a bachelor's degree (4 years) in business, logistics, or a related field, followed by passing a licensing exam administered by customs authorities.

High school preparation

Courses:

Business Studies and Economics for foundational knowledge.
Foreign Language classes to aid in international communication.
Geography to understand global trade routes and logistics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining business or economics clubs.
Participating in Model United Nations for a global perspective.
Volunteering at local trade organizations or logistics companies.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in business, logistics, or international trade.
Gain experience through internships in logistics, shipping, or customs-related firms.
Study for and pass the Customs Broker License Examination.
Stay updated with ongoing education in trade regulations and international business.

More resources

National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) - Offers education and resources for Customs Brokers.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - Become a Customs Broker - Official guidelines and information on becoming a Customs Broker.
International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations (IFCBA) - Provides international perspectives and resources for Customs Brokers.

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