Customs Specialist

Freight Appointments; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Freight Appointments is seeking a detail-oriented Customs Specialist / Entry Writer to join our fast-paced logistics and brokerage team, ensuring compliant and efficient customs clearance for air, ocean, and ground shipments.

You will prepare, review, and transmit entries, accurately classify goods with HTS codes, and coordinate with importers, carriers, and authorities to keep shipments moving while maintaining audit-ready records.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in customs brokerage, entry writing, or international trade compliance.
• Experience in freight forwarding or customs brokerage environment preferred.
• Proficiency with CargoWise or similar software preferred.
• Strong understanding of import/export documentation and U.S. customs procedures.
• Knowledge of U.S. trade compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and transmit customs entries and supporting documentation in accordance with CBP regulations and client requirements.
• Accurately classify imported goods using HTS codes and determine applicable duties, taxes, and fees.
• Coordinate with importers, carriers, government agencies, and internal operations teams to facilitate timely customs clearance.
• Ensure compliance with all customs regulations, trade laws, valuation requirements, tariff classifications, and country-of-origin rules.
• Monitor shipment status and proactively resolve customs holds, delays, or documentation discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate records and audit-ready files in accordance with company and regulatory standards.
• Communicate effectively with customs officials, clients, and vendors regarding entry status and compliance matters.
• Stay current on changes in customs regulations, trade agreements, and industry best practices.
• Collaborate closely with operations and logistics teams to support smooth cross-border transportation and delivery.
• Provide guidance and support to internal teams regarding customs procedures and compliance requirements.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Time management

Prioritization

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

Problem-solving

Tools

CargoWise

Job description

On behalf of a leading global freight forwarder, we are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Customs Specialist / Entry Writer to join a fast-paced logistics and brokerage team. This role is responsible for ensuring compliant and efficient customs clearance processes while supporting seamless international freight operations across air, ocean, and ground transportation.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and transmit customs entries and supporting documentation in accordance with CBP regulations and client requirements
• Accurately classify imported goods using HTS codes and determine applicable duties, taxes, and fees
• Coordinate with importers, carriers, government agencies, and internal operations teams to facilitate timely customs clearance
• Ensure compliance with all customs regulations, trade laws, valuation requirements, tariff classifications, and country-of-origin rules
• Monitor shipment status and proactively resolve customs holds, delays, or documentation discrepancies
• Maintain accurate records and audit‑ready files in accordance with company and regulatory standards
• Communicate effectively with customs officials, clients, and vendors regarding entry status and compliance matters
• Stay current on changes in customs regulations, trade agreements, and industry best practices
• Collaborate closely with operations and logistics teams to support smooth cross‑border transportation and delivery
• Provide guidance and support to internal teams regarding customs procedures and compliance requirements

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in customs brokerage, entry writing, or international trade compliance
• Experience working within a freight forwarding or customs brokerage environment preferred
• Proficiency with CargoWise or similar customs brokerage software preferred
• Strong understanding of import/export documentation, customs clearance procedures, and international transportation processes
• Knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations and trade compliance requirements

Skills

• Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills
• Ability to prioritize and work effectively in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and customs brokerage systems
• Working knowledge of international trade agreements and logistics operations