Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: 3PL (Third Party Logistics) • Letter of Credit • Harmonized Tariff Schedule

Customs Compliance

Term from Logistics Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Customs Compliance refers to following all the rules and regulations when moving goods between countries. It's like being the rule-keeper for international shipping and trade. People who work in this field make sure companies properly declare their goods, pay the right taxes (duties), and follow import/export laws. They help prevent problems with customs authorities and keep shipments moving smoothly across borders. Think of it as being the expert who knows all the paperwork and procedures needed to legally move products from one country to another.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Customs Compliance program for $50M worth of annual imports

Led team of 5 specialists handling Customs Compliance and Trade Compliance matters

Reduced customs delays by 40% through improved Customs Compliance procedures

Typical job title: "Customs Compliance Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Customs Compliance Manager Trade Compliance Specialist Import/Export Compliance Coordinator Global Trade Compliance Manager Customs and Trade Specialist International Trade Compliance Officer Customs Broker

Where to Find Customs Compliance Specialists

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you set up a customs compliance program from scratch for a company that's new to international trade?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should include creating written procedures, training programs, audit systems, risk assessment, and building relationships with customs authorities and brokers. They should mention implementing documentation systems and establishing internal controls.

Q: Tell me about a time you handled a major customs compliance issue. How did you resolve it?

Expected Answer: Look for experience managing serious compliance problems, including working with customs authorities, implementing corrective actions, and preventing future issues. They should demonstrate leadership and problem-solving abilities.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What steps do you take to ensure accurate customs valuations?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of gathering correct pricing information, understanding different valuation methods, and ensuring all costs are properly included or excluded according to customs rules.

Q: How do you keep up with changes in customs regulations?

Expected Answer: Should mention specific information sources, training programs, industry newsletters, and professional networks they use to stay current with changing regulations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic documents needed for importing goods?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list common documents like commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and customs declaration forms, and explain their basic purpose.

Q: What is the difference between duty and tariff?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding that tariffs are taxes on specific products while duties are broader taxes on imported goods, and explain how they affect import costs.