Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Do You Really Need To Hire A Customs Broker?

By Brenda Hall


Cross-border trading offers a multitude of opportunities for businesses of all sizes. That said, the task of shipping internationally is by no means a simple endeavor, all thanks to the numerous risks, rules and protocols. It therefore makes sense to build relationships with experts who can help with the various complexities surrounding shipping. Depending on your particular business, working with a customs broker could benefit you in a number of ways.

Every country uses unique policies in governing the import and export of commodities. And these laws are always changing, at times on a daily basis. A broker takes the responsibility of ensuring compliance with all these protocols in order to streamline shipping for their clients. Besides keeping up with changes in policy, they also communicate with governments and agencies, which is vital in facilitating compliance.

In international trade, customs clearance is often a murky subject. Traders are generally held responsible for all customs declarations prepared on their behalf. Any errors could result in fines, audits or even sanctions for your firm. A broker could however facilitate a smooth customs clearance process since they have the necessary skills. This means your shipments make it past borders and reach their intended destinations without hiccups.

The convenience of having your paperwork handled by an expert cannot be overstated. Most firms are vastly experienced in handling various procedures and documentation. As such, the can navigate all the necessary steps a lot quicker than an inexperienced trader would. Not only can they make your life easier, but there's also the relief that comes with not having to worry about making potentially-costly mistakes.

In most ports, commodities like cosmetics, foods, agricultural products and pharmaceuticals are categorized as special shipments. Besides requiring special documentation for clearance, the duties charged for these items are also unique. Brokers are well versed in the procedures needed to clear such shipments. Working with an experienced firm means you no longer have to worry about your goods being held at port.

While working with a brokerage firm comes at a significant cost, you will end up saving more in the end. Thanks to the resources at their disposal, they can help you control costs and reduce the risk of incurring non-compliance penalties. Besides reducing paperwork, you'll be able to simplify your accounting and streamline operations for better cost efficiency.

A good brokerage firm will provide a personal contact to suit your particular needs and quickly resolve any arising issues. And if you're interested in spreading your business to new markets, the consultant could offer personalized advice to help you succeed. This kind of dedicated assistance would be of great help to small firms with low import and export volumes.

Shipping internationally can be quite tricky, and mistakes could result in costly penalties. Working with the right partners can however mitigate the risks. The range of services offered by a broker could go a long way in enhancing your firm's success.




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