Hiring Custom Brokerage Services? Watch for These 7 Must-Haves

Erangie Kulatilaka
Apr 30
3 min read

In today’s volatile trade landscape—where tariff shifts, regulatory changes, and geopolitical tensions can disrupt supply chains overnight—having the right customs broker isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s mission-critical.

With new policies unfolding from the ongoing U.S. trade war, increased scrutiny at the border, and rising pressure to move goods faster and more cost-effectively, importers and exporters are navigating more uncertainty than ever before. Compliance missteps or clearance delays can mean real financial consequences.

That’s why now, more than ever, your business needs more than a transactional service. You need a reliable, responsive customs brokerage partner who understands your industry, anticipates risks, and ensures your goods move smart, not just fast.

Whether you're a first-time importer or reevaluating your current provider, this guide outlines the key factors to consider when choosing a customs brokerage service—so you can build a supply chain that’s not just compliant, but resilient.

1. Deep Regulatory Expertise—Not Just a Service, but a Partner

Customs rules change fast. From tariff shifts to CARM updates, your broker should be up to speed on both global and local trade laws. Look for:

Demonstrated knowledge of CBSA or CBP compliance
Experience handling various HS codes and valuation methods
Ability to advise on trade agreements (e.g., USMCA/CUSMA, CPTPP)

A strong brokerage won’t just process paperwork—they’ll help you avoid delays, overpayment, and penalties.

2. End-to-End Support—Beyond the Border

The best brokers don’t stop at clearance. They coordinate with your freight forwarder, check for documentation issues before they happen, and keep your team in the loop. Key services to look for include:

Pre-arrival reviews and document checks
Coordination with carriers and warehouses
Assistance with OGD (Other Government Department) requirements

Choose a brokerage that acts as an extension of your supply chain—not just a form-filler.

3. Technology Integration & Real-Time Visibility

Can your customs broker connect with your ERP or TMS? Do they offer a client portal to track declarations, duties, and statuses?

Today’s leading custom brokerage services offer:

API connectivity and EDI integration
Real-time shipment status updates
Secure digital document storage

Tech isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity for scale, efficiency, and transparency.

4. Personalized Service and Industry Experience

Every industry—from pharmaceuticals to perishables—has unique requirements. A reputable broker should offer:

Industry-specific compliance knowledge
Dedicated account management
Rapid support during audits or inspections

Ask about their client portfolio. Have they handled goods like yours? Do they understand your industry’s specific risks?

5. Transparent Pricing with No Surprise Fees

Brokerage fees can vary—but clarity shouldn’t. Make sure you understand:

What’s included in the service fee (e.g., disbursements, consulting)
How duty/tax estimation is handled
Whether they bill per shipment, per entry, or flat rate

Avoid brokers that lowball upfront, only to charge extra for “complex entries” or “unexpected paperwork.”

6. Reputation, Credentials, and Licenses

Trust is earned—and verified. Look for:

National and international certifications (e.g., CBSA-licensed, CTPAT-compliant)
Membership in trade associations (e.g., CSCB, NCBFAA)
Positive reviews and client testimonials

Your brokerage is responsible for legal declarations. You need someone credible, reliable, and accountable.

7. Proactive Risk Management and Trade Consulting

The best brokers don’t wait for issues—they anticipate them. Look for services like:

Risk assessments of import classifications and documentation
Post-entry reviews and refund assistance
Strategic consulting on tariff optimization

A strategic broker helps you not only clear shipments—but optimize trade strategy.

In-House vs. Custom Brokerage Services: What’s Right for You?

Some businesses consider handling customs clearance in-house—but unless you have dedicated trade compliance professionals and the infrastructure to support them, it’s easy to run into delays, fines, or costly misclassifications.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you evaluate:

Criteria	In-House Clearance	Custom Brokerage Services
Compliance Expertise	Limited to your internal team's experience	Specialized professionals trained in trade law and compliance
Technology & Systems	May require costly software and updates	Brokers often provide client portals and automated tools
Error Risk	Higher if staff aren't customs specialists	Lower—brokers review documents and pre-empt common issues
Time & Resources	Labor-intensive, often outside core competency	Frees up internal resources and reduces time spent on filings
Cost	Lower upfront, but high if errors occur	Typically cost-effective when factoring in time and risk savings
Scalability	Difficult to scale during busy seasons	Easily scales with volume and business growth

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Pick a Provider. Choose a Partner.

Outsourcing to a trusted custom brokerage service gives your team confidence that your shipments are being handled by experts—so you can focus on what you do best.

Your customs broker plays a critical role in your supply chain. The wrong choice can lead to delays, penalties, and lost revenue—but the right partner unlocks speed, clarity, and long-term savings.

At Hemisphere, we bring over 40 years of experience supporting clients across industries—from retail and automotive to healthcare and technology. Our team provides personalized service, backed by 24/7 support, and a deep understanding of compliance requirements in today’s fast-changing trade landscape.

We don’t just move goods—we build relationships based on trust, responsiveness, and results. If you're looking for a custom brokerage service that puts your business first, we're here to help.