What’s a customs agency?

Customs agencies oversee and enforce laws related to imported goods and services. They assess and charge tariffs, prevent fraud and smuggling, and have the power to seize illegally imported goods. Customs agencies are usually under the direction of a larger department, but may also function as independent entities. Sometimes referred to as a customs agency […]

Customs & int’l trade: what’s the link?

Customs services monitor international trade to ensure compliance with regulations and laws, acting as a barrier against unscrupulous traders and preventing the trade of illegal items. They also enforce bans and quotas on certain products and can seize and destroy dangerous or substandard items. The advent of globalization has made it easier to trade between […]

What’s US Customs and Border Protection?

The US Customs and Border Protection was formed in 2003 as part of the Department of Homeland Security’s response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Its responsibilities include enforcing immigration laws, preventing terrorist attacks, and controlling drug trafficking. The department has undergone significant changes since its creation, including increased border patrol officers and stricter travel regulations. […]

What’s a customs tariff?

Customs tariffs are taxes on goods crossing international borders. They vary by country and are usually a percentage of the declared value of the commodity. Goods are inspected and fees collected by customs officials. Harmonized tariff tables are used to determine taxes, and tariffs can be for imports or exports. They can be imposed for […]

US customs rules: what to know?

Before shopping abroad, familiarize yourself with US customs regulations to avoid fines or seizure of items. Keep receipts and declare gifts, purchases, and inherited items upon return. Customs officials may search baggage and persons to prevent illegal items from entering the country. Respect officials. One of the best things about traveling abroad is that you […]

How to be a customs officer?

To become a customs officer, apply to a government agency overseeing hiring and training. No specific education is required, but a background check and interview are necessary. Physical fitness and mental health screening may be required. Military or law enforcement backgrounds and foreign language skills are advantageous. To become a customs officer, you will need […]

What are customs broker jobs?

Customs broker jobs involve monitoring international shipments and complying with customs regulations. Entry-level positions include customs officers, while licensed brokers monitor and assess international packages. Customs specialists ensure compliance and may write legal documents, while customs managers oversee shipping departments and create procedures. Many types of customs broker jobs are available as a career for […]

What’s customs duty?

Customs law prevents illegal entry of people, goods, and contraband while promoting safe and lawful travel and trade. The US CBP enforces customs law, collects import duties, and prevents illegal contraband from entering the country. NAFTA eliminated barriers to cross-border investment and goods movement. Each country has specific customs laws, including prohibitions on firearms, endangered […]

How to become a customs broker?

Becoming a customs broker in the US is no longer simple due to the integration of the role into the CBP after 9/11. CBP officers and Border Patrol agents are trained to stop illegal activity and contraband from entering the US, with rigorous pre-qualification, training and testing required. Applicants must be US citizens, fluent in […]

Customs Broker Jobs: Types?

Customs officer jobs involve enforcing laws and protecting a country from danger. There are three main types of jobs: commercial, postal, and traveler inspectors. Customs officials must possess certain personality traits and may need to speak a foreign language. Applicants must pass a specialized government exam. There are several customs officer jobs available, from border […]

What’s a customs inspector’s job?

Customs inspectors inspect people and products entering or leaving the country, applying federal law on a case-by-case basis. They inspect documents, products, and confiscate contraband. They also inspect large shipping containers at US ports of entry and may need to testify in court. Attention to detail and thorough paperwork is essential. A customs inspector is […]

What’s a Customs Broker?

Customs brokers act on behalf of companies for import and export of goods, particularly in India where they must be licensed. They address import/export issues for companies lacking resources, and are authorized by the local Customs Commissioner after meeting certain requirements. A customs broker has the right to act on behalf of a company over […]

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