Customs Broker

A customs broker is a licensed intermediary that manages customs clearance for imported or exported goods by preparing entries, classifying goods under HS/HTS codes, calculating duties and taxes, and coordinating with customs and regulatory agencies to release shipments legally and on time.

In manufacturing, a customs broker keeps inbound raw materials, components, and MRO items flowing across borders by filing entries, validating commercial invoices and packing lists, assigning the correct HS/HTS code, and calculating duties and taxes before or at arrival. Customs holds can block receiving, delay line-side replenishment, and create shortages of critical materials even when inventory is physically in transit. Brokers also coordinate with carriers, ports, and agencies such as CBP, FDA, USDA, or EPA when controlled materials require additional approvals, which is important for regulated inputs used in food, medical, chemical, or electronics manufacturing. For inventory control, broker data improves landed-cost accuracy because duty, tax, and compliance charges affect procurement cost, SKU profitability, and replenishment decisions. Supply chain teams use broker status updates to reconcile inbound shipment milestones, confirm whether goods are in customs hold, and trigger contingency sourcing if a critical component misses its required dock-to-stock window.