Logistics

Customs Compliance Specialist job description

Hire a Customs Compliance Specialist to optimize global trade. Master tariff classification, HTS codes, and import/export regulations to ensure duty savings.

Published October 7, 2025Updated May 16, 20267392 likes

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Job brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Customs Compliance Specialist to join our global logistics team and oversee our international trade operations. You will take ownership of our customs clearance processes, ensuring that all shipments flow seamlessly through ports of entry while maintaining full regulatory alignment. This role offers the chance to influence our supply chain strategy by identifying opportunities for duty savings and trade program participation, such as FTAs (Free Trade Agreements). If you are a trade expert who thrives on technical precision and process optimization, we would love to have you help us scale our global footprint.

Key highlights

Execute accurate HTS classification and valuation of goods to ensure compliance with international trade regulations and minimize duty payments.
Coordinate directly with licensed customs brokers and freight forwarders to resolve shipment detentions, entry discrepancies, and clearance delays efficiently.
Identify and qualify products for Duty Drawback programs and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to capture significant cost-saving opportunities for the company.
Monitor trade-related KPIs using GTM software to identify trends in clearance times, carrier performance, and recurring customs-related bottlenecks.

What is a Customs Compliance Specialist?

A Customs Compliance Specialist is a specialized trade professional who manages the intricate regulatory framework governing the movement of goods across international borders. By acting as the primary liaison between the organization and governmental bodies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Customs Compliance Specialist ensures all documentation—including commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin—strictly adheres to global trade laws. They utilize advanced Global Trade Management (GTM) software and ERP systems to audit classifications, mitigate risk, and secure duty drawbacks, thereby safeguarding the company from costly penalties and supply chain disruptions.

What does a Customs Compliance Specialist do?

On a daily basis, a Customs Compliance Specialist performs HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) classification for new products, monitors trade compliance metrics, and resolves customs holds with freight forwarders or customs brokers. They continuously review import and export entries to ensure accuracy in valuation and country-of-origin labeling, while maintaining rigorous record-keeping practices to satisfy potential customs audits. By staying abreast of shifting international trade policies and Incoterms, the Customs Compliance Specialist implements internal controls that streamline cross-border transit times and optimize total landed costs for the procurement and logistics departments.

Key responsibilities

Execute accurate HTS classification and valuation of goods to ensure compliance with international trade regulations and minimize duty payments.
Manage the audit process for import/export documentation, including commercial invoices and Bills of Lading, to ensure data integrity within the ERP.
Coordinate directly with licensed customs brokers and freight forwarders to resolve shipment detentions, entry discrepancies, and clearance delays efficiently.
Develop and maintain internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for customs compliance to standardize documentation workflows across multi-site operations.
Identify and qualify products for Duty Drawback programs and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to capture significant cost-saving opportunities for the company.
Monitor trade-related KPIs using GTM software to identify trends in clearance times, carrier performance, and recurring customs-related bottlenecks.
Represent the organization during external audits by regulatory agencies, providing transparent evidence of compliance with export control laws and regulations.
Provide technical training to procurement and warehouse teams on trade compliance requirements and Incoterms to ensure consistent global execution.

Requirements and skills

3+ years of professional experience in customs brokerage, trade compliance, or international logistics management.
Expertise in HTS classification, valuation methods, and working knowledge of U.S. export controls and EAR/ITAR requirements.
Demonstrated proficiency in Global Trade Management (GTM) software platforms such as Amber Road, MIC, or Integration Point.
Advanced technical skills in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) for tracking shipment data and managing trade documentation.
CCS (Certified Customs Specialist) or LCB (Licensed Customs Broker) designation is highly preferred for this role.
Deep understanding of international trade law, Incoterms 2020, and the regulatory environment of specific key markets (FDA, USDA, EPA).
Strong analytical capability to interpret complex regulatory changes and communicate their business impact to executive stakeholders.
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, International Business, Logistics, or a related field of study.

FAQs

What does a Customs Compliance Specialist do daily?

A Customs Compliance Specialist manages the daily flow of import and export documentation to ensure all international shipments adhere to legal standards. This includes classifying products under the correct HTS codes, verifying the country of origin, and communicating with customs brokers to clear goods through ports. They also spend time updating internal databases, auditing past entries for errors, and monitoring for changes in global trade policies that could impact shipment transit times.

What are the essential qualifications for a Customs Compliance Specialist?

Essential qualifications include a solid understanding of international trade laws, Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification, and import/export documentation. Most employers require experience with GTM software and ERP systems, and certifications such as the Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or a Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) license are highly sought after. Candidates must also demonstrate strong attention to detail and the ability to interpret complex federal regulations.

Who does a Customs Compliance Specialist collaborate with?

A Customs Compliance Specialist works extensively with external partners like customs brokers, freight forwarders, and port authorities to facilitate smooth cargo movement. Internally, they act as a vital link between the procurement, logistics, and warehouse teams to ensure that all shipping data is accurate. They often consult with legal departments to ensure corporate policy reflects current trade laws and may provide guidance to executive leadership on duty spend and trade risk.

Why is the Customs Compliance Specialist role critical to a business?

This role is critical because it prevents significant financial and operational risks, such as fines, port seizures, and damaged reputations. By ensuring compliance, a Customs Compliance Specialist also uncovers opportunities for duty savings through legal trade programs, which directly improves the company's bottom line. Their work keeps the global supply chain moving, ensuring that raw materials and finished goods reach their destination without regulatory interruption.