Shipping your products to another country is a great way to grow and expand your business. However, this also means extra hassle. Sending products out of the country is not as easy as it may seem at first. If you ship products out or buy raw products or inventory internationally, delays in shipments can cause you to lose business. 

This is why it is important to work with an experienced Clearit customs clearance team. Handling everything in-house means you focus a lot more on customs rather than your business. Moreover, you may not even get everything done on time and properly. Read this blog to understand how customs brokerage can improve shipping times. 

The impact of customs broker on shipping timelines 

A customs broker is hired to facilitate the job of sending goods out of the country and receiving them from other countries. A customs broker helps in achieving clearance at the border and simplifies complex tasks. They are licensed companies and maintained by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). 

Importers and exporters are required to adhere to a number of federal and state guidelines. Customs brokers make sure their shipments are not delayed due to avoidable reasons. These may include inaccurate documentation, misclassification of goods, and incorrect valuation. 

Therefore, with their knowledge and experience, customs brokers play a critical role in ensuring you save time on shipping and clearance. The long wait times at the ports are minimized, and businesses do not have to suffer. 

Three common reasons for customs delays 

Here are 3 common reasons why customs delays occur: 

• Incorrect HTS codes: HTS stands for Incorrect Harmonized Tariff Schedule. These codes are important. If even one digit is entered incorrectly, it could result in incorrect payments.
• Incorrect duty estimates: Every country has its own set of rules. Tariffs, duties, taxes, customs procedures, rules, and forms need to be followed at all times. These can change frequently, so one needs to keep an eye out. 
• Incomplete paperwork: Inaccurate documentation, incomplete forms, or improperly filled forms have serious consequences. They do not only waste your time but may tarnish your business’ reputation. 

Improve shipping time with a customs broker 

All of the problems discussed above can be resolved and prevented with a customs broker. They know the potential mistakes people make and can avoid them. They can make sure your shipment is not delayed and use alternative options when one is not available. 

The best part about working with customs brokers is that they are experienced with imports and exports. They can assist you with a number of things than simply clearing customs.