Customs Specialist

Altius Talent | Freight Forwarding Recruitment; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Altius Talent | Freight Forwarding Recruitment is seeking a qualified Customs Entry Writer to join a growing freight forwarding team in the Chicago area.

You will prepare and process customs entries for various import shipments, ensuring accuracy, regulatory compliance, and timely submission. Collaboration with customers, carriers, and government agencies is essential to keep freight moving.

Qualifications

• Experience in customs brokerage or freight forwarding.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. import regulations and CBP procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and file customs entries in line with CBP regulations.
• Review invoices, packing lists, B/Ls, arrival notices, and other documentation.
• Classify goods using HTS codes and identify PGA requirements.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, procedures, and client instructions.
• Liaise with customers for missing information and shipment details.
• Communicate with CBP, carriers, lines, and internal teams.
• Monitor shipment status and resolve customs issues promptly.
• Maintain accurate records and assist with billing and file completion.

Skills

Attention to detail

CBP procedures

Communication

Proactive problem-solving

Tools

Customs brokerage systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Customs Entry Writer – Freight Forwarding

Our client is a growing international freight forwarder with a strong presence in the Chicago market. Due to continued growth, they are looking to add an experienced Customs Entry Writer to their customs brokerage team.

This is a great opportunity for someone who understands the pace of import operations, knows how to handle customs entries accurately, and wants to join a business where their work genuinely matters.

The Role

As a Customs Entry Writer, you will be responsible for preparing and processing customs entries for a range of import shipments, ensuring all documentation is accurate, compliant, and submitted on time.

You will work closely with import operations, customers, carriers, and government agencies to keep freight moving and avoid unnecessary delays.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and file customs entries in line with CBP regulations.
• Review commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, arrival notices, and other import documentation.
• Classify goods using HTS codes and identify any PGA requirements.
• Ensure compliance with customs regulations, company procedures, and client instructions.
• Liaise with customers to obtain missing information or clarification on shipment details.
• Communicate with CBP, carriers, steamship lines, airlines, truckers, and internal operations teams.
• Monitor shipment status and resolve customs-related issues quickly and professionally.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure timely billing and file completion.

Requirements

• Previous experience as a Customs Entry Writer within freight forwarding or customs brokerage.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. import regulations and CBP procedures.
• Experience with ocean and/or air import entries.
• Understanding of HTS classification, valuation, country of origin, and PGA requirements.
• Confident using customs brokerage systems and Microsoft Office.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to join a growing and respected freight forwarding business.
Supportive team environment with long-term career potential.
• Exposure to a wide range of import commodities and customers.
• A role where accuracy, knowledge, and reliability are genuinely valued.