Duty Drawback

Term from Logistics Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Duty Drawback is a money-saving program that helps companies get back taxes and duties they paid on imported materials, if those materials were later used in products that got exported. Think of it like a tax refund for international trade. Companies hire experts in this field because they can help save significant amounts of money by properly tracking these import-export transactions and filing the correct paperwork with customs authorities. It's a complex process that requires understanding of customs regulations, international trade rules, and detailed documentation skills.

Examples in Resumes

Recovered $2.5M in Duty Drawback claims for manufacturing clients

Led Duty Drawback program implementation saving company $800K annually

Managed Drawback claims process for fortune 500 retail client

Typical job title: "Duty Drawback Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Trade Compliance Specialist Customs Specialist Import/Export Specialist International Trade Analyst Drawback Consultant Trade Operations Manager Customs Compliance Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you set up a duty drawback program for a company that's never had one before?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of analyzing import/export data, setting up tracking systems, training staff, and coordinating with customs brokers. Should mention risk assessment and compliance requirements.

Q: What strategies have you used to maximize duty recovery while ensuring compliance?

Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for identifying eligible transactions, documentation systems, and working with various departments to gather necessary information. Should mention experience with audits and regulatory requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain the different types of duty drawback claims you've handled.

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain manufacturing drawback, unused merchandise drawback, and substitution drawback in simple terms with practical examples.

Q: How do you ensure accuracy in drawback calculations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss verification processes, documentation requirements, and methods for tracking imported materials through the manufacturing process.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What documentation is needed for a basic duty drawback claim?

Expected Answer: Should list essential documents like customs entries, proof of export, manufacturing records, and be able to explain their importance.

Q: What's the basic timeline for processing a duty drawback claim?

Expected Answer: Should understand standard processing times, filing deadlines, and basic steps in the claim process.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of customs documentation
  • Knowledge of import/export processes
  • Familiarity with trade compliance basics
  • Data entry and record keeping

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Processing drawback claims independently
  • Understanding of customs regulations
  • Experience with trade software
  • Coordination with customs brokers

Senior (5+ years)

  • Program implementation and management
  • Team leadership and training
  • Audit management
  • Strategic planning for duty recovery

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic customs regulations
  • Lack of attention to detail in documentation
  • No experience with trade compliance software
  • Poor understanding of import/export processes