CBP
CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) is a key government agency that controls what comes in and out of the United States. In freight forwarding and shipping jobs, people work with CBP to make sure goods can legally enter or leave the country. Think of them as the airport security, but for commercial goods and cargo. When job descriptions mention CBP, they're usually talking about dealing with customs paperwork, following import/export rules, and working with customs officers to clear shipments.
Examples in Resumes
Processed over 500 shipments monthly through CBP clearance procedures
Maintained 98% compliance rate with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations
Coordinated with CBP officers for time-sensitive pharmaceutical imports
Typical job title: "Customs Brokers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Customs Brokers
Professional Organizations
Job Resources
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle a situation where a shipment is held by CBP for additional inspection?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain their process for communicating with CBP officers, gathering required documentation, coordinating with clients, and maintaining compliance while minimizing delays.
Q: What experience do you have with CBP audits and how do you prepare for them?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of audit preparation, record-keeping requirements, common compliance issues, and how to maintain proper documentation for potential audits.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the main types of CBP entry forms and when do you use each?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain different types of entry forms (formal, informal, temporary), their purposes, and common scenarios for using each type.
Q: How do you determine proper classification of goods for customs purposes?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for reviewing product information, using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, and consulting with CBP resources when needed.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the basic process for clearing goods through customs?
Expected Answer: Should explain the fundamental steps of customs clearance, including documentation requirements, basic forms, and communication with CBP officers.
Q: What are the essential documents needed for customs clearance?
Expected Answer: Should list and explain basic required documents like commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and entry forms.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic customs documentation
- Entry filing assistance
- Understanding of basic CBP requirements
- Communication with CBP officers
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent customs clearance handling
- Classification of goods
- Resolution of common customs issues
- Client communication
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex customs issue resolution
- Audit management
- Team leadership
- Strategic compliance planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic customs forms and documentation
- Unfamiliarity with Harmonized Tariff Schedule
- Poor attention to detail in paperwork
- Lack of understanding of compliance requirements
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