1

Customs Agent Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Customs Brokerage Lead Agent, Supervisor and Manager Additional Information Expeditors offers excellent benefits: * Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Time * Health Plan: Medical * Life Insurance

Customs Brokerage Lead Agent, Supervisor and Manager Additional Information Expeditors offers excellent benefits: * Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Time * Health Plan: Medical * Life Insurance

Customs Brokerage Lead Agent, Supervisor and Manager Additional Information Expeditors offers excellent benefits: * Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Time * Health Plan: Medical * Life Insurance

Customs Entry Writer

Erlanger, KY ยท On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

As a Customs Entry Agent , you will ensure compliance with federal and foreign regulations governing the shipment, receipt, and documentation of imported products while processing separate entries to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Customs Agent information

See Kentucky salary details

$30.8K

$98.5K

$118.6K

How much do customs agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs agent in Kentucky is $98,496.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,800.00 and $117,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a customs agent?

Customs Agents are government officials responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to the import and export of goods across international borders. Their duties include inspecting shipments, verifying documentation, assessing duties and taxes, and preventing illegal goods such as drugs or contraband from entering or leaving a country. Customs Agents help ensure compliance with trade regulations, protect national security, and facilitate lawful international trade. They may work at airports, seaports, border crossings, or other points of entry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a customs agent?

To thrive as a Customs Agent, you need strong knowledge of import/export regulations, attention to detail, and a background in law enforcement or criminal justice, often supported by relevant government training. Familiarity with customs management systems, X-ray scanning equipment, and document verification tools is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and integrity help agents manage high-pressure situations and interact effectively with travelers and colleagues. These skills are crucial for ensuring legal compliance, maintaining border security, and facilitating smooth international trade.

What challenges do customs agents face when processing shipments?

Customs Agents often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, complex documentation requirements, and the need to stay updated with frequently changing regulations. New hires can prepare by developing strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a willingness to continuously learn about trade laws and international agreements. Building good communication skills is also essential, as Customs Agents regularly collaborate with importers, exporters, and other government agencies to resolve issues and ensure compliance.

What is the difference between Customs Agent vs Customs Broker?

AspectCustoms AgentCustoms Broker
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some certifications may be preferredRequires licensing and certification, such as a customs broker license
Work EnvironmentWorks for government agencies or import/export companies, inspecting shipments and ensuring complianceWorks for private companies or independently, handling customs clearance and documentation
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, import/export firmsFreight forwarders, import/export companies, customs brokerage firms

While both Customs Agents and Customs Brokers deal with customs procedures, Customs Agents primarily work for government agencies inspecting shipments, whereas Customs Brokers assist private clients with customs clearance and documentation. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

How do you become a customs agent?

To become a customs agent, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete specialized training provided by customs agencies. Some positions may require knowledge of customs laws, security procedures, and proficiency with relevant tools or technology; additional certifications or exams may also be necessary depending on the jurisdiction.

How much money do customs agents make?

Customs agents typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced agents or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits and overtime opportunities.

Is it hard to become a customs agent?

Becoming a customs agent typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a background check, and completing specialized training or certification. The process can involve passing written exams and physical assessments, and some positions may require prior experience in law enforcement or security. Overall, it requires dedication and meeting specific qualifications, but it is achievable with proper preparation.

What are popular job titles related to Customs Agent jobs in Kentucky?

For Customs Agent jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Customs Agent jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Customs Agent job openings:

Infographic showing various Customs Agent job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,496 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

$23.36 - $31.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Air Import Agent

Job Location: Hebron, Kentucky

DHL Global Forwarding (DGF) is the world leader in air freight services and one of the leading providers of ocean freight services. Around 30,000 employees work to ensure we transport our customers of shipments by air or sea. DGF's logistics solutions span the entire supply chain, from the factory to the shop floor. This also includes special transport-related services.ย  Visit our career site on the web at https://www.logistics.dhl/us-en/home/careers.htmlย 

Shift Flexibility Required: Possible evening and or weekend shifts

Key Responsibilities

  • Execute import orders by confirming arrival times, coordinating with customs brokerage, inputting data, and dispatching deliveries.
  • Build strong customer relationships by responding promptly to inquiries via phone, email, fax, and mail.
  • Work with air and ground transportation partners to manage inbound shipments.
  • Receive and track purchase orders (POs) from importers and overseas offices for pending air shipments.
  • Retrieve shipment details, prepare and manage all documentation for cargo release, and perform accurate data entry for each shipment.
  • Communicate with air carriers to ensure timely release of freight.
  • Notify customers and customs brokers of arrival and charges due; provide accurate job costing forecasts and perform billing to customers and/or other offices.
  • Set up and coordinate deliveries to customers, ensuring timely and efficient service.
  • Handle and manage all customer contact at the file level regarding exceptions and escalations.
  • Answer all customer inquiries in accordance with Customer Service Policy standards.
  • Proactively increase customer satisfaction and business share through regular communication and service excellence.
  • Assist the import agent team in completing tasks and projects as required.
  • Assign work, set completion timelines, review work, and provide feedback to management on team performance.
  • Perform additional duties and projects as directed.
  • Process daily DHL Air Product ThermoNet shipments in full compliance with Air Product and GxP guidelines.
  • Organize pickup and delivery for customers, ensuring adherence to cSOPs and internal SOPs.
  • Provide freight documents and monitor inbound/outbound cold chain processes, acting as escalation point for the central monitoring team.
  • Handle operational escalations and provide required information for LifeTrack SOP and PMR creation.
  • Ensure all duties are performed in accordance with cSOPs and regulatory requirements.

Skills & Requirements

  • Exceptional customer service skills with strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
  • Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and follow-up skills.
  • Proficient in MS Office products.
  • Experienced in handling international freight forwarding shipments.
  • Trained and certified for DHL ThermoNet shipments under GxP guidelines.
  • Must be flexible to work weekend and or evening shifts when necessary

Pay Range: $23.36 - $31.14/hr. (Based on Experience)


Benefits (All Non-Union Employees)

  • Compensation: Competitive base salary plus role dependent performance-based incentives.
  • 401(k) Match: $1-for-$1 match up to 4% quarterly + 2% annual base contribution.
  • Stock Purchase Plan: Ability to purchase Deutsche Post AG shares at a discounted rate.
  • Medical: Comprehensive plans covering preventive care, inpatient/outpatient services, and prescriptions.
  • Vision: Optional coverage for exams, frames, and contacts.
  • Dental: Optional coverage for preventive, basic, and major services.
  • Paid Time Off: 7 major holidays, 8 floating holidays, and accrued vacation/sick days.


Equal Opportunity Employer

DHL Global Forwarding is committed to equal employment opportunities, evaluating all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME