When do I need a customs broker to clear my shipments?

It is important to make the necessary arrangements for customs brokerage prior to shipping your package. Here is how to know when you need a customs broker.

When do I need a customs broker to clear my shipments?

Posted by Tania

Shipping internationally can be a complex process, especially when it comes to customs clearance. A customs broker can be a valuable asset to any business that ships internationally. They can help you navigate the complex world of customs regulations and ensure that your shipments are cleared quickly and efficiently.

Don’t have a FlagShip account? It’s easy and free to sign up!
Simply click here to get started

What is a customs broker?

A customs broker is a licensed professional who specializes in facilitating the movement of goods across international borders. They have the knowledge and experience to deal with the complex paperwork and procedures involved in customs clearance. A customs broker can help you with a variety of tasks, including:

  1. Classifying your goods for customs purposes
  2. Preparing and filing customs documentation
  3. Calculating and paying customs duties and taxes
  4. Communicating with customs officials on your behalf
  5. Negotiating the release of your goods if they are detained by customs

When do you need a customs broker?

Whether or not you need a customs broker will depend on a number of factors, including the value of your shipment, the countries you are shipping to and from, and the complexity of your customs clearance requirements.

In general, you will need a customs broker if:

  1. The value of your shipment exceeds a certain threshold. In Canada, this threshold is $800 CAD for exports to the United States and $20 CAD for imports from the United States.
  2. You are shipping goods that are subject to special regulations, such as food, alcohol, or dangerous goods.
  3. You are unfamiliar with customs regulations or do not have the time or resources to deal with them yourself.

Benefits of using a customs broker

There are many benefits to using a customs broker for your international shipments. Here are just a few:

  1. Save time and money: A customs broker can help you avoid costly delays and penalties by ensuring that your shipments are cleared quickly and efficiently.
  2. Reduce the risk of errors: Customs regulations can be complex and ever-changing. A customs broker can help you avoid costly mistakes by ensuring that your documentation is accurate and complete.
  3. Improve your compliance: A customs broker can help you stay up-to-date on the latest customs regulations and ensure that your shipments are compliant.
  4. Gain access to expertise: A customs broker can provide you with valuable advice and guidance on all aspects of international shipping.

How to choose a customs broker

If you decide to need to use a customs broker, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional.
Here are a few tips for choosing a customs broker:

  1. Choose the customs broker services of a courier
  2. Get referrals from other businesses that ship internationally.
  3. Ask potential customs brokers about their experience and qualifications.
  4. Get quotes from several customs brokers before making a decision.

A customs broker can be a valuable asset to any business that ships internationally. They can help you save time and money, reduce the risk of errors, improve your compliance, and gain access to expertise. If you are unsure of whether or not you need a customs broker, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a professional. In addition, here are some other things to keep in mind when deciding whether or not you need a customs broker:

  1. The complexity of your shipment: If your shipment is complex, such as a shipment containing multiple items or hazardous materials, you will likely need a customs broker to help you clear it through customs.
  2. Your experience with international shipping: If you are new to international shipping, you may want to use a customs broker to help you navigate the process.
  3. Your comfort level: If you are not comfortable dealing with customs regulations yourself, you should use a customs broker.
    By using a customs broker, you can take the stress out of international shipping and ensure that your shipments arrive at their destination on time and on budget.

Shipping Internationally Don’t have a FlagShip account?
Simply click here to get started

Courier brokerage services 

Need help getting your shipment across borders? Some FlagShip partners offer seamless brokerage services to ensure your package arrives quickly and compliantly.

  • FedEx Ground Services -If you do not have your own custom broker, you can contact FedEx Trade Network at asucanada@ftn.fedex.com  to open brokerage account.   Please note that this process can take 24-48 hours.
  • Purolator, UPS, and FedEx Express Services – These carriers handle customs clearance automatically for added convenience based on their various carrier rules.

If you are a FlagShip customer, feel free to give us a call if you ever have any questions on your international shipments. We will make sure your shipping is stress-free. If you do not have an account, click here to sign-up for a free account and see for yourself, how FlagShip makes shipping easy,

If you have any questions, please contact us at support@flagshipcompany.com or 1-866-320-8383.