Import Agent / US Customs Entry Writer

Job Summary: The Import Agent role involves the preparation of Customs documentation to ensure that any shipments imported meet all applicable laws so that entry can occur. This position will be working within the Customs Brokerage and Import Logistics organization and is involved in determining the level of duties and taxes to be paid including the processing of payments on behalf of clients as well as in the coordination of import logistics activity which shall be performed in a cost-efficient manner and in accordance with Company standards. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Accurate and timely ISF entry submissions
• Receive, review, and distribute documentation in ensure regulatory compliance of a variety of participating government agencies
• Accurate and timely entry processing through US Customs and participating government agencies
• Calculate and process duties and taxes to be paid and operate under a Power of Attorney on behalf of clients.
• Pay, or arrange for payment of taxes and duties.
• Liaising with Customers.
• Entering shipping and/or import details onto specialized customs software.
• Allocating the correct license depending on type of goods being imported.
• Potentially attending meetings with Customs Officials in the application of duty refunds and tariff reclassification as appropriate and will assist with any appeals that are forthcoming.
• Be fully conversant with import laws and regulations and keep up-to-date with changes as they occur, so as to be able to advise customers on import restrictions, tariff systems, insurance requirements and all other Customs related matters.
• Post bonds for the products being imported or assist clients in obtaining bonds.
• Prepare the necessary import documentation such as certificates of origin and cargo control documents.
• Liaise with officials in various governmental agencies to ensure goods are cleared through customs or quarantine.
• Arrange for transportation, warehousing or product distribution of imported goods and liaise with Freight Forwarders.
• Coordinate customs release, freight release, and final delivery schedules
• Communicate with customers both internal and external of shipment status
• Accurate and timely billing of clients
• Adherence to procedures and productivity standards
• Participate and support other team members with accounts and workload on day-to-day operations

Qualifications:

• 1-2 years relevant industry experience preferred
• Experience in Descartes IES (Preferred but not required)
• Good written and verbal communication, problem solving, and interpersonal skills; courteous; organized and able to prioritize tasks
• Ability to work well with others in a team environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), database and web-based applications
• Attention to detail
• Positive Attitude
• Authorization to work in the US
• Customs Broker License (Preferred but not required)