Customs Brokers
Customs brokers prepare and manage documentation for importing and exporting goods across international borders. They ensure shipments comply with all applicable laws, calculate duties and taxes, and process payments on behalf of clients. Most work for brokerage firms, freight forwarding companies, or operate independently, serving importers and exporters.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against customs brokers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A customs broker reviews incoming shipment manifests, verifies that documentation matches cargo contents, and calculates applicable tariffs and taxes. They communicate with customs officials to clarify shipment details or address compliance issues. Throughout the week, brokers track multiple shipments at different stages, process duty payments, file required forms, and update clients on clearance status. Attention to regulatory detail and deadline management are constant.
Who this work suits
Holland code CER. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be detail-oriented and comfortable with rules and procedures—the conventional interest. You also like taking initiative and managing business relationships, reflecting an enterprising side. You're organized, reliable, and able to handle multiple clients and deadlines while staying precise with complex documentation.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $84,590 | $111,030 | $132,960 | 4,380 |
| Massachusetts | $78,390 | $102,060 | $130,230 | 13,190 |
| New Jersey | $76,180 | $100,000 | $128,790 | 13,310 |
| California | $71,240 | $96,980 | $127,380 | 49,880 |
| Connecticut | $71,810 | $91,810 | $109,990 | 3,610 |
| Delaware | $65,520 | $91,050 | $105,800 | 2,150 |
| Vermont | $68,220 | $90,420 | $108,510 | 1,960 |
| New York | $66,670 | $90,080 | $119,430 | 23,500 |
| Washington | $74,770 | $88,790 | $116,210 | 11,130 |
| Rhode Island | $74,550 | $87,620 | $110,090 | 970 |
| Minnesota | $68,200 | $85,920 | $109,010 | 6,140 |
| Pennsylvania | $63,280 | $85,580 | $130,990 | 19,810 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Transportation Broker (CTB) — Transportation Intermediaries Association
- Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) — The National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America
- Master Customs Specialist (MCS) — The National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against customs brokers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1041.08 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.