Customs Brokerage

Services · Customs Brokerage

Licensed Customs Brokerage Services

Seamless international trade requires two things: total compliance and ultimate flexibility. Our in-house team of certified customs specialists provides the precision clearance solutions you need to move cargo across borders without delay.

Backed by decades of experience in global trade and regulations, we handle everything from tariff classification to final port-of-entry clearance with meticulous attention to detail. We manage the complex legal requirements so you can focus on what matters — keeping your supply chain moving.

Navigating the Import Process: Clarity & Compliance

The Import Clearance Journey: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Arrival &
Notification

Carrier notifies arrival.
AMS/ACI data pre-filed.

ISF (10+2)
Filing

Filed 24 hrs before loading.
$5,000 penalty if missed.

Documentation
& Review

Invoice, Packing List,
BOL reviewed and verified.

Tariff
Classification

HTS/HS code assigned.
Duties calculated.

Entry Summary
& Duty Payment

CBP Entry Summary filed.
Duties and fees paid.

Release &
Final Delivery

CBP releases cargo.
Last-mile delivery to destination.

COMMON IMPORT PITFALLS: How We Protect You

Pitfall 1: Incorrect HS Code

Delayed classification.

Prevention: HS Code Verification

Expert review & validation.

Pitfall 4: Missing BOL

Non-compliant.

Prevention: Missing BOL

Effortless document tracking.

Pitfall 2: Missing ISF

Non-compliant.

Prevention: ISF Filing

Comprehensive classification.

Pitfall 5: Documentation

Accurate classification.

Prevention: Documentation Audit

Intuitive document tracking.

Pitfall 3: Lack of POA

Cannot file.

Prevention: POA Onboarding

Detailed document tracking.

Pitfall 6: Client Bill of POA

Cannot filed file.

Prevention: Client Onboarding Support

Streamlined POA setup.

CUSTOMS GLOSSARY: Quick Acronym Reference

ISF (10+2)

Pre-arrival security filing for US ocean imports: 10 data points from importer + 2 from carrier, due 24 hrs before vessel loading.

HTS

US 10-digit tariff classification code that sets the duty rate on imported goods.

BOL

Bill of Lading: carrier-issued document acting as cargo receipt, shipping contract, and title.

HS Code

International 6-digit product code (WCO standard) used as the base for national tariffs worldwide.

RLF

Remote Location Filing: lets brokers electronically file customs entries from anywhere, not just the port of entry.

Bonded Warehouse

Customs-approved storage where imports sit duty-free until withdrawn (or duty-free forever if re-exported).

Customs Export Step-by-Step Guideline

Export Process: From Quotation to Departure

Booking &
Quotation

Client submits details for a freight quote and booking.

Documentation
Prep

Client completes EEI via AES and Shipper's Letter of Instruction (SLI).

HS Classification
Verification

Confirm correct HS codes, Schedule B numbers for compliance.

AES Filing
& ITN

Submit EEI data through AES. Receive Internal Transaction Number (ITN).

Cargo
to Port

Cargo moves from origin to the port of export.

Export Clearance
& Loading

Customs reviews docs, cargo is loaded onto the vessel/aircraft.

Vessel/Aircraft
Departure & Tracking

Shipment departs. Access real-time tracking.

"Common Pitfalls": Why Export Shipments Get Delayed

PITFALLS

ANCHOR'S PREVENTION

Incorrect Schedule B

We verify Schedule B codes

Missing SLI

Provide checklists

Denied Parties

Conduct robust screening

Improper Labeling

Offer guidance

No ITN

Ensure timely filing

"Export Glossary": Quick Acronym Reference

EEI

Electronic Export Information

SLI

Shipper's Letter of Instruction

AES

Automated Export System

ITN

Internal Transaction Number

Schedule B

U.S. export classification number system

EAR

Export Administration Regulations

Interactive Tools & Resources

Giving Shippers The Edge with Self-Service Compliance

Documents Checklist

Essential Importer Checklist

Commercial Invoice

Packing List

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill (AWB)

Power of Attorney (POA)

Certificate of Origin

Mandatory Electronic Filing

EEI / AES Filing — For Ocean Exports

Required for shipments valued over $2,500 per Schedule B code

ITN received — must be printed on BOL/AWB

⚠ Penalty: Fines from $1,100/day up to $10,000 per violation.

ISF (10+2) Filing — For Ocean Imports

Must be filed 24 hours before loading at origin port

⚠ Penalty: Liquidated damage penalty of $5,000.00 per shipment.

Compliance & Industry Expertise

Specialized Industry Expertise & PGA Requirements

Different industries have different FDA/EPA/USDA requirements. Our licensed brokers have deep expertise across all major categories.

Automotive

Navigating cargo and product standards.

Electronics

FCC & EPA: Ensuring component and substance compliance.

Perishables

USDA & FDA: Navigating temperature-sensitive food compliance.

Textiles

Components, quota and patent compliance.

Chemicals

Navigating environmental substance controls.

Pharmaceuticals

FDA & DEA: Ensuring pharma substance and licensing compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Customs Questions

What is the difference between a single entry bond and a continuous bond?

A single entry bond is a one-time bond for a specific shipment. A continuous bond is an annual bond that covers all shipments entered by the importer within a calendar year.

How long does customs clearance typically take?

Routine clearance can be completed within a few hours to 1–2 business days when all documentation is correct and complete. If CBP selects a shipment for examination or if there are document discrepancies, the process can take several additional days.

Do I need a customs broker for small e-commerce shipments?

While not legally required, a broker is highly recommended once your shipments exceed $800 in value (the formal entry threshold). High-volume e-commerce businesses benefit greatly from professional brokerage to ensure classification accuracy and avoid penalties.

What is a Power of Attorney (POA), and why do I need to sign it?

A Power of Attorney authorizes Anchor Express to act as your legal agent before U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Without a signed POA, we cannot file entry documents or clear your shipment on your behalf. It is required for all new clients.

What is an ISF (10+2), and when must it be filed?

The Importer Security Filing (10+2) is a mandatory CBP requirement for all ocean freight imports. It must be filed at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto a vessel at the foreign port. Failure to file results in a liquidated damage penalty of $5,000 per violation.

How are duties and taxes calculated?

Duties are calculated based on the HTS code assigned to your goods, multiplied by the declared value of the shipment. Additional fees such as Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) and Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) may also apply.

What is an HTS or HS Code?

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) is a numerical system used to classify imported goods. Each product is assigned a specific code that determines the applicable duty rate, trade statistics, and any special regulations or restrictions.

Who is the "Importer of Record" (IOR)?

The Importer of Record is the entity legally responsible for ensuring the imported goods comply with all U.S. laws and regulations, and for paying any applicable duties and taxes. This is typically the buyer or consignee of the goods in the United States.

What happens if my shipment is "Held" or "Examined"?

CBP may select shipments for examination based on risk analysis. We will immediately notify you, coordinate with the port's exam site, and work to resolve any issues as quickly as possible. Our proactive documentation practices minimize the risk of examination.

What is a "Commercial Invoice" vs. a "Proforma Invoice"?

A Commercial Invoice is an official document issued after a sale is completed, used for customs clearance. A Proforma Invoice is a preliminary bill sent before the transaction is finalized — it cannot be used for formal customs entry but is useful for quotes and advance planning.

When should I send my documents to the broker?

For ocean freight, documents should be submitted at least 5–7 business days before the vessel's estimated arrival. For air freight, 24–48 hours before arrival is typical. Early submission allows us to pre-file your entry and flag any issues before the shipment arrives.

Request a Free Compliance Review

Let our licensed brokers analyze your current import/export process and identify potential risks, classification errors, or compliance gaps — at no charge.

Schedule a Free Review