Between an order being placed for import of goods and its actual receipt in the importing country, there are a number of formalities involved that need to be completed or fulfilled by the importers. Here is where a custom broker comes into the picture. Hearing this, the first thing that may come into the minds of various people would be ‘what is a customs broker?’ A custom broker is just what importers need to ensure a speedy delivery of the importer goods. A custom broker completes the myriad of formalities involved in the import of goods. Further, many times, customs officials unnecessarily stall the clearance of the imported goods, in which case importers may suffer through heavy losses. They may do so at their indiscretion and may take advantage of the ignorance of the importers. A customs broker ensures that there is no inordinate delay in the clearance of the goods in exchange for a certain amount of fee. Though, the question ‘what is a customs broker?’ has been adequately answered, but many people may find it a tad bit difficult to locate a reliable customs broker. Thankfully, there is some help available for such people. Cap International, which is a licensed custom brokerage firm, offers reliable customs brokerage. Located in Houston, the company has been operational as a licensed brokerage firm for over 29 years.
- It is extremely important that when the imported goods reach its destination, proper documents must be submitted at the Customs. In case the documents are not shown or are fake, the shipment may not only be denied entry but may also be seized or the importers may be penalized. As people might be undecided about going using the services of a customs broker, once they get the answers to the question ‘what is a customs broker?’, they can know for themselves the importance of utilizing one. In order to expedite an imported order, the following documents must be submitted at the Customs:
- Commercial Invoice- The commercial invoice is the main document which helps Customs officials classify and evaluate the duty to be levied on the imported goods.
- Packing list- This list summarizes the number and details of all the items in the imported shipment. It is mandatory that the packing list must be in English. All the items, including those in any individual packages, must be mentioned on the list. While making this list, people must ensure that if the Customs Official is looking for a particular item, that official must be able to find the item easily.
- Bill of Lading- This document is basically a receipt that is given by the carrier for the imported merchandise. It includes details like the final destination, total number of pieces and their weight, the type of container used if the items are placed in a container and the name of the vessel carrying the shipment.
- Air Waybill- This is also a type of a receipt, like the bill of lading, except that it is given by the airline.
In addition to the reasons explained above for answering the question, ‘what is a customs broker?’ a customs broker’s work involves getting these documents in order, to prevent any delays or problems in clearing Customs or other government agency.
