Top 11 Customs Broker Certifications

Certifications are important for customs brokers because they demonstrate a level of professional expertise and knowledge in the field. Customs brokers must keep up with changing regulations, trade laws, and other industry trends. Having a certification shows potential employers that you are knowledgeable and experienced in the field and can handle the responsibilities of the job. Additionally, certifications provide access to exclusive resources such as educational seminars, conferences, and networking events. This can be beneficial when looking for new opportunities within the profession or expanding your skillset.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Customs Brokers and discuss how they can add value to a Customs Broker's career.

What are Customs Broker Certifications?

Customs broker certification is a professional certification for individuals and organizations that specialize in managing customs clearance processes. Customs brokers are responsible for helping companies move goods across international borders by preparing and submitting documents necessary to clear customs, arranging transport of goods, collecting duties and taxes, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Having a certified customs broker on staff or working with an outside brokerage firm can be beneficial to businesses in many ways. A certified broker will have the knowledge and experience needed to navigate the complexities of international trade laws, as well as the resources necessary to ensure goods are cleared quickly and efficiently. They can also provide valuable advice on shipping options, assist with tariff classification and duty rate determination, help businesses stay compliant with import/export regulations, and keep up-to-date on changes in international trade policies. In addition, having a certified customs broker on staff or working with an outside brokerage firm can help businesses save time and money by avoiding costly delays that often result from incomplete paperwork or incorrect information being submitted to customs authorities.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different types of customs broker certifications available and their associated requirements. Different certifications may require additional coursework or examinations, so it’s important to understand what each certification entails before committing to a program.

Related: What does a Customs Broker do?

Top 11 Customs Broker Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Customs Brokers today.

1. Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)

Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) is a professional designation for those who specialize in customs, international trade, and related topics. The CCS designation is awarded to individuals who have achieved a certain level of expertise in the field. It is issued by the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB).

The CCS program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. To become certified at each level, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as customs regulations, tariff classification, valuation, origin determination, and other related topics. Each level requires more knowledge than the previous one.

It typically takes about two years to complete all three levels of certification. However, this can vary depending on how much time and effort you are willing to put into studying for the exams.

To get started on your journey to becoming a Certified Customs Specialist, you will need to register with the CSCB and pay a registration fee. Once registered, you can begin studying for the exams and submitting your application when ready.

The cost of becoming a Certified Customs Specialist varies depending on which level you are applying for and whether you choose to take the exams online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 CAD per level to become certified at each stage of the program.

2. Certified International Trade Professional (CITP)

Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) is a professional designation offered by the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT). The CITP designation is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in international trade. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates knowledge and experience in global business, international trade, and export management.

To become certified, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of international trade through a combination of education, experience, and examination. To qualify for the CITP designation, applicants must have at least three years of cumulative international trade experience, or two years with a relevant post-secondary degree. They must also pass the FITTskills Exam, which covers topics such as global economics, trade finance, logistics and operations management.

The process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the individual's background and commitment to completing the requirements.

The cost of obtaining the CITP designation varies depending on where you are located but generally ranges from $500-$1500 USD. This includes the cost of course materials and exam fees.

3. Certified Export Compliance Officer (CECO)

A Certified Export Compliance Officer (CECO) is an individual who has been trained and certified by the U.S. Department of Commerce to provide guidance and assistance in export compliance matters. The CECO is responsible for ensuring that a company’s export activities comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines.

The certification process typically takes about three months to complete and requires the applicant to pass a comprehensive exam administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce. To become certified, applicants must first complete an online application form and pay a fee of $500. Once approved, applicants must then attend a two-day training course at one of the designated CECO training centers located throughout the United States. After completing the course, applicants must take a written exam covering topics such as export controls, export licensing requirements, anti-boycott regulations, and other relevant topics related to export compliance.

Once applicants have successfully completed both the training course and the examination, they will receive their official CECO certificate from the U.S. Department of Commerce along with their certification number which will be valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

Overall, becoming a Certified Export Compliance Officer requires dedication and commitment but can be very rewarding for those looking to specialize in this field or advance their career opportunities in international trade law or compliance management roles within companies that engage in global trade activities.

4. Certified Import/Export Specialist (CIES)

Certified Import/Export Specialist (CIES) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to become successful in the import/export industry. The program is offered by the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA).

The CIES certification requires applicants to complete a two-day, 16-hour course and pass an exam. The course covers topics such as international trade regulations, customs procedures, export documentation, and compliance issues. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, applicants will receive their CIES certificate.

The cost of the CIES certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $650 - $850.

To obtain the CIES certification, applicants must first register for a course either online or through an approved provider. Once registered, applicants must attend both days of the course and successfully pass the exam at the end of day two in order to receive their certificate.

5. Certified Global Trade Professional (CGTP)

Certified Global Trade Professional (CGTP) is a certification offered by the International Trade Council (ITC) that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated an advanced level of knowledge and expertise in global trade. The CGTP credential is highly sought after by employers, as it demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence and mastery of the principles of international trade.

The CGTP program consists of two parts: an online self-study course, and an exam. The online self-study course covers topics such as international trade regulations, customs compliance, global logistics, risk management, and more. The exam tests your knowledge on these topics and requires a passing score to obtain the CGTP credential.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the CGTP program. However, this time frame can vary depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exam.

To get the CGTP credential, you must first register with ITC and pay the applicable fees. After registering, you will be given access to the online self-study course materials which you must complete before taking the exam. Once you have completed all of the course material and passed the exam with a minimum score of 70%, you will be awarded with your CGTP credential.

The cost for obtaining your CGTP credential varies depending on whether or not you are an ITC member when registering for the program. For non-members, it costs $595 USD; however members receive a discounted rate of $495 USD.

6. Licensed Customs Broker Exam (LCB)

The Licensed Customs Broker Exam (LCB) is a comprehensive exam administered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is designed to assess an individual’s knowledge and understanding of customs laws, regulations, and procedures. The LCB exam includes six sections: Classification & Valuation; Entry Processing & Accounting; Quota & Trade Preference Programs; Drawback; Reconciliation/Post-Summary Corrections; and Special Programs.

The LCB exam takes approximately four hours to complete, with each section taking anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour. The exam is offered twice a year in April and October at various locations throughout the United States. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have completed a minimum of two years of college education or equivalent experience in the field of international trade or customs law.

In order to take the LCB exam, applicants must submit an application form along with a $200 non-refundable fee to CBP. Once approved, applicants will receive an authorization letter from CBP that will include instructions on how to register for the exam. Upon successful completion of the LCB exam, applicants will receive a license from CBP which will allow them to practice as a Licensed Customs Broker in the United States.

7. Certified International Trade Logistics Professional (CITLP)

Certified International Trade Logistics Professional (CITLP) is a certification program offered by the International Trade Logistics Association (ITLA). The CITLP certification is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in international trade logistics. It is intended for individuals who are actively engaged in the field of international trade logistics, either as practitioners or as educators.

The CITLP certification requires applicants to pass an online examination that covers topics such as customs regulations, international transportation, supply chain management, and global trade finance. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of the principles and practices of international trade logistics through a written essay.

The CITLP certification process typically takes between six and eight weeks to complete. To become certified, applicants must submit an application form along with the required fees and documents. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to access the online exam.

The cost of obtaining the CITLP certification varies depending on the country in which you live. In general, it costs around $400 USD for US-based applicants and $500 USD for non-US based applicants.

8. Licensed Customs House Broker Exam (LCHB)

The Licensed Customs House Broker Exam (LCHB) is an exam administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The exam tests the knowledge of those who wish to become a Licensed Customs House Broker (LCHB). This license allows individuals to act as intermediaries between importers and CBP, ensuring that all customs regulations are followed properly.

The LCHB exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral interview. The written portion covers topics such as customs laws, regulations, procedures, and operations; international trade; customs classification; entry requirements; appraisement and liquidation; accounting systems; record keeping; export declarations; and other related topics. The oral interview focuses on the applicant's ability to apply the knowledge gained from the written portion in real-world scenarios.

In order to take the LCHB exam, applicants must first complete a pre-exam application with CBP. This application includes submitting personal information, educational background, professional experience, references, and other documentation required by CBP. Once this application is approved, applicants must register for the exam through Prometric Testing Centers located throughout the United States.

The cost of taking the LCHB exam varies depending on where it is taken but generally ranges from $150-$400 USD. It typically takes around three weeks to get approved for the exam after submitting your pre-exam application with CBP. After passing both portions of the exam, applicants will receive their license within four to six weeks.

9. Certified U.S. Export Compliance Manager (CUSECM)

Certified U.S. Export Compliance Manager (CUSECM) is a professional certification program offered by the Export Compliance Training Institute (ECTI). It is designed to help individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage export compliance programs in the United States. The program includes topics such as export regulations, licensing, enforcement, and risk management.

The CUSECM program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers all aspects of export compliance, including export regulations, licensing, enforcement, and risk management. It takes approximately 10-12 hours to complete the online course and can be taken at your own pace. After completing the online course, you must pass a 90-minute exam in order to receive your certification.

To get certified as a CUSECM, you must first register for the program through ECTI's website or by calling their toll-free number. You will then be required to pay a fee of $450 USD for the online course and exam. Once registered, you will have access to all of the materials needed to prepare for the exam and will also receive guidance from experienced instructors throughout your studies. After successfully passing the exam, you will receive your official CUSECM certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks of completion.

Overall, getting certified as a CUSECM requires approximately 10-12 hours of study time plus $450 USD in fees for registration and materials. With this certification, you can demonstrate your expertise in export compliance and gain valuable recognition from employers or customers who require it for business purposes.

10. Certified International Trade Analyst (CITA)

Certified International Trade Analyst (CITA) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of International Trade (IIT). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals in the field of international trade. The CITA certification demonstrates a mastery of the fundamentals of global trade and provides an edge to those seeking employment or advancement in this rapidly growing field.

The CITA program consists of three parts: an online exam, an online course, and a final project. The online exam covers topics such as international trade regulations, export/import procedures, logistics management, and international finance. The coursework focuses on practical application of international trade principles. The final project requires the candidate to develop a comprehensive plan for managing an international trade transaction from start to finish.

It typically takes 4-6 months to complete the CITA program depending on how quickly you can complete each part. To get started with the program you must first register with IIT and pay a fee which includes access to all materials needed for completion of the program. The cost for registration is $1,995 USD which includes access to all materials needed for completion of the program as well as one year's membership in IIT's Professional Networking Group.

Once you have completed all three parts of the CITA program successfully you will receive your certificate from IIT indicating that you are now a Certified International Trade Analyst (CITA).

11. Certified International Supply Chain Professional (CISCP).

Certified International Supply Chain Professional (CISCP) is a professional certification offered by the Global Supply Chain Institute (GSCI). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skills in the field of international supply chain management. The certification is intended for individuals who are currently working in or aspire to a career in global supply chain management.

The CISCP program consists of two parts: a written exam and an online course. The written exam tests your knowledge of international supply chain management, including topics such as logistics, transportation, customs compliance, quality assurance, and risk management. The online course covers the same topics but also includes case studies and other interactive elements.

To become certified, you must pass both the written exam and the online course with a score of at least 70%. You must also have at least three years of experience in international supply chain management or related fields. Once you have passed both parts of the program, you will receive your CISCP certificate.

The cost of becoming certified depends on where you take the program. In most cases, it will cost around $1,000 USD to become certified. This cost includes the written exam fee and the cost of taking the online course.

It typically takes about six months to complete all requirements for certification; however, this can vary depending on how quickly you complete each part of the program.

Do You Really Need a Customs Broker Certificate?

The short answer is yes. A customs broker certificate is a must-have for anyone who works in the import and export business. This certificate allows you to work as a customs broker, which is someone who facilitates the movement of goods across international borders by arranging for their clearance through customs and other government agencies. Without this certification, you will not be able to do this type of work.

Having a customs broker certificate proves that you have the knowledge and skills needed to negotiate with foreign governments and handle paperwork associated with the movement of goods across international borders. This can help you get better job opportunities in the industry and may even help you secure higher salaries because employers know that they can trust you to handle their business correctly.

Moreover, having a customs broker certificate can also open up new opportunities for growth and development within your career. With this certification, you will be able to develop your skills further by taking on more complex tasks such as negotiating tariffs or preparing documents for shipments across multiple countries. This can give you an edge over other professionals in the field when it comes to securing new jobs or promotions.

In conclusion, getting a customs broker certificate is essential if you want to pursue a career in import/export. It not only provides evidence of your qualifications but also gives employers confidence that they can trust you with their business dealings. Furthermore, it gives you access to more advanced tasks which can lead to greater career advancement opportunities down the line.

Related: Customs Broker Resume Examples

FAQs About Customs Broker Certifications

1. What is a customs broker certification?

A customs broker certification is an official license issued by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows individuals to legally act as agents for importers and exporters in the clearance of goods through customs.

2. What are the requirements to become a certified customs broker?

The requirements to become a certified customs broker include passing a written examination administered by CBP, completing at least five years of experience in the field, and paying all applicable fees and taxes.

3. How long does it take to get my customs broker certification?

It typically takes several months to complete the process of obtaining your certification, including taking the exam, submitting paperwork and paying applicable fees.

4. Is there any continuing education required for my certification?

Yes, certified brokers are required to complete at least 20 hours of continuing education every three years in order to maintain their license.

5. Are there any other certifications or licenses I may need in order to practice as a customs broker?

In addition to your customs broker certification, you may also be required to obtain additional licenses depending on your state or local regulations.