What is a customs broker?

A broker is licensed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and acts as a professional agent for importers to bring merchandise into the USA by facilitating:
 

• Shipping procedures

• Documents

• Tax , duties, other fees

 

 

What are the penalties for failing to comply with CBP regulations?

• Monetary penalties

• Delays of incoming shipments

• Restriction of import privileges

• Increased examination and interrogation of incoming goods

 

 

What paperwork do I need in order to import?

The documents required depend on the commodity, value, origin, and additional factors, but the basic requirements are:

 

• Commercial invoice noting:  total value of goods, currency of purchase, manufacture country of origin, shipper and consignee full name and address, number of pieces, detailed description of merchandise, and the Federal ID for the consignee of the product in the USA

• Bill of lading (or Airway Bill)

• Packing list

• Certificate of Origin

• Power of Attorney: This document allows DK Express to act on your behalf with U.S. Customs & Border Protection and other government U.S. government agencies

 

 

What kind of information does the U.S. Customs and Border Protection require for imported goods?

• Description of goods

• Country of origin

• Country of original manufacture or growth

• Value, duties & taxes of goods

• Currency used in the transaction

• Whether the goods are trade-sensitive

• U.S. Port of Entry

 

 

Do I need a license in order to import?

No, but some products require a license from different government agencies in order to be imported.

 

 

How are goods cleared?

• Once goods arrive to the U.S., they must go through a port of entry where CBP inspects and clears them.

• Importers or licensed customs brokers must file entry documents for the goods within 15 calendar days of the date they arrive at the port of entry

• Appropriate duty fees must be paid

 

 

What kind of products are subject to FDA examination?

According to FDA, all food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, and electronic products that emit radiation are subject to examination by FDA when they are imported into the U.S.

 

If you are planning to import food into the U.S., please refer to our FAQ Importing Food Products page because there are specific requirements you must meet prior to shipping your products

 

 

How much does it cost to hire a broker?

Brokerage service fees are based on the shipment, total value of goods, and the country of export. DK Express assures low-cost rates, which will constitute only a small portion of your entire importing costs. Please call us to obtain more information through one of our agents.