Customs Entry Writer in El Segundo, California at ClearFreight

Customs Entry Processing & Compliance

• Prepare, review, and file accurate customs entries with CBP to facilitate the timely release and clearance of imported shipments.
• Review and process shipment documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and other required documents.
• Identify missing or inaccurate information that may impact customs clearance and resolve documentation discrepancies.
• Input and transmit accurate shipment and entry data to CBP and applicable government agencies.
• Utilize the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUSA) as needed to support product classification.
• Ensure entries are processed in accordance with CBP regulations, PGA requirements, customer instructions, and company procedures.
• Assist customers with customs inquiries, entry rejections, post-entry amendments, refund requests, and other brokerage-related matters.
• Identify and escalate compliance concerns, discrepancies, and non-routine transactions as appropriate.

Customer Service & Shipment Management

• Manage assigned customer shipments from entry preparation through customs clearance, delivery, and billing.
• Respond promptly to customer inquiries and provide updates regarding shipment status, documentation requirements, and clearance issues.
• Track and trace shipments and communicate delays, exceptions, and other issues affecting timely clearance or delivery.
• Coordinate transportation and delivery of imported freight following customs release.
• Develop a strong understanding of assigned customers' requirements and service expectations.

Reporting, Billing & File Management

• Perform accurate reporting and billing for assigned customer files.
• Ensure all required charges and services are accurately captured for timely billing.
• Maintain accurate customer records, entry documentation, databases, and reports.
• Organize assigned files to maintain visibility throughout each phase of the entry process.
• Maintain complete and accurate files from initial documentation through final billing and completion.

Collaboration & Support

• Collaborate with customers, carriers, transportation providers, and internal departments to ensure efficient shipment processing.
• Ensure data integrity and compliance with customer SOPs, company policies, and government regulations.
• Assist in resolving documentation issues, shipment exceptions, and customer concerns.
• Identify recurring issues or process gaps and communicate recommendations to management.

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail, organizational, and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage multiple files, changing priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound decision-making and problem-solving skills, including the ability to evaluate information, identify discrepancies, ensure compliance, and recognize when issues or non-routine transactions require escalation.
• Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to anticipate customer needs, provide solutions, and communicate professionally with customers, vendors, carriers, and internal teams.
• Ability to take ownership of assigned shipments and customer accounts, work independently, follow established procedures, and maintain consistent follow-through through issue resolution.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, accountability, and commitment to accuracy, compliance, and customer service, including the ability to perform basic mathematical calculations accurately.

Computer Skills

• Good working knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook.
• Ability to learn and effectively utilize customs brokerage, freight forwarding, and internal operating systems.
• Experience with CargoWise is a plus.

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's Degree preferred.
• 0–3 years of experience as a Customs Entry Writer or within a customs brokerage operation.
• Knowledge of customs entry processing, import documentation, CBP requirements, and HTSUSA is preferred.
• Experience working with customs brokerage software and electronic data transmission systems is a plus.