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Freelance Customs Clearing Agent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Customer Service Agent, FTZ Administration

El Paso, TX · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

... clearing all types of goods. We work every day from our many offices in more than 80 countries to ... customs officials, brokers, and other stakeholders to resolve any customs-related inquiries or ...

Customer Service Agent, FTZ Administration

El Paso, TX · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

... clearing all types of goods. We work every day from our many offices in more than 80 countries to ... customs officials, brokers, and other stakeholders to resolve any customs-related inquiries or ...

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Freelance Customs Clearing Agent information

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$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance customs clearing agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance customs clearing agent in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do customs brokers make a lot of money?

Customs brokers, including freelance customs clearing agents, typically earn a moderate income that depends on experience, location, and client volume. They often charge fees for their services and may earn additional income through commissions or hourly rates, but overall earnings vary widely. Successful brokers with specialized knowledge and certifications can increase their earning potential.

What is the difference between Freelance Customs Clearing Agent vs Customs Broker?

AspectFreelance Customs Clearing AgentCustoms Broker
CredentialsOften requires basic customs clearance knowledge, certifications vary by countryTypically requires licensing or certification specific to customs brokerage
Work EnvironmentIndependent, often working remotely or on a contract basisUsually employed by customs brokerage firms or import/export companies
Industry UsageUsed by importers, exporters, and freight forwarders for clearance servicesServes as licensed intermediaries between importers/exporters and customs authorities

While both roles involve customs clearance, Freelance Customs Clearing Agents operate independently and may not hold official licenses, whereas Customs Brokers are licensed professionals authorized to handle customs documentation and payments. The choice depends on the level of certification required and the work setup.

How to become an independent customs broker?

To become an independent customs broker, you must typically pass a customs broker license exam administered by the relevant government authority, gain relevant experience in customs procedures, and register your business. Licensing requirements vary by country but generally include demonstrating knowledge of import/export regulations and paying licensing fees. Strong understanding of customs laws, attention to detail, and familiarity with customs clearance software are essential for success in this role.

What are some common challenges freelance customs clearing agents face when managing multiple clients?

Freelance customs clearing agents often juggle multiple clients and shipments simultaneously, which can lead to challenges such as coordinating tight deadlines, keeping up with constantly changing import/export regulations, and ensuring all documentation is accurate and submitted promptly. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are essential to avoid delays or compliance issues. Additionally, building good relationships with customs officials and staying current with regulatory updates can help agents navigate these challenges smoothly and maintain client satisfaction.

Is there a demand for customs brokers?

There is consistent demand for customs brokers, including freelance customs clearing agents, due to the ongoing need for import and export compliance in international trade. Companies and individuals rely on these professionals to navigate complex customs regulations, making skilled brokers essential in logistics and supply chain operations.

How to become a customs clearance agent?

To become a customs clearance agent, you typically need to gain knowledge of import/export regulations, customs procedures, and relevant documentation. Many employers prefer candidates with a background in logistics, supply chain management, or related fields, and some regions require licensing or certification. Developing skills in customs software and understanding international trade laws can also enhance job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Customs Clearing Agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Customs Clearing Agent, you need a solid understanding of international trade regulations, customs procedures, and relevant documentation, often backed by a certification in customs brokerage or logistics. Familiarity with customs clearance software, electronic data interchange (EDI) systems, and government portals is typically required. Strong negotiation, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you manage clients and resolve clearance issues efficiently. These skills are crucial for ensuring timely, compliant cargo movement and maintaining strong client relationships in a highly regulated environment.

What are freelance customs clearing agents?

Freelance customs clearing agents are independent professionals who facilitate the import and export of goods by ensuring that shipments comply with all relevant customs regulations. They handle documentation, calculate duties and taxes, and coordinate with customs authorities to clear goods efficiently. Unlike agents employed by a specific company, freelancers offer their services to multiple clients, providing flexibility and a wide range of experience. They play a crucial role in preventing delays and avoiding costly compliance issues for businesses engaged in international trade.
More about Freelance Customs Clearing Agent jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Customs Clearing Agent jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Customs Clearing Agent job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Customs Clearing Agent jobs? The most popular types of Customs Clearing Agent jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Customs Clearing Agent jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Customs Clearing Agent jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Customs Clearing Agent jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Customs Clearing Agent jobs are:
Infographic showing various Freelance Customs Clearing Agent job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Customs Brokerage Customer Service

$21 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Expeditors rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 345 rated logistics


Job description

Company Description

Expeditors is a leader in the international transportation industry and has opportunities for motivated team players who are looking for a challenging and rewarding place to work. Expeditors culture of organic growth and promotion from within, combined with a strong management team and unique compensation structure, continuously attracts the highest caliber employees.

By recruiting, motivating and retaining the best personnel in the business, we feel we will keep our leadership position in the marketplace. Our business is quality customer service and our people are what make that happen. We hire individuals based on attitude and train them for the skills it takes to make a successful career here. As part of their career development and overall job evaluation, our employees are required to take a minimum of 52 hours of training per year.

Job Description

Scope of Position:

Ensure the proper and timely movement and clearance of freight, while providing an exceptional customer service within the Customs Brokerage department.

Major Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Ensure smooth and timely customs process flow.
  • Ensure accurate and timely client billing.
  • Understand all the elements of the import and export customs DLSOP (Desk Level Standard Operating Procedure) and correctly interpret this information to fulfill our customers' instructions and expectations.
  • Ensure accurate and timely data entry into our operating system.
  • Transpose customs declaration information from documents, or other sources into the customs entry system to allow for the build of a valid customs declaration.
  • Assist with verification of customs declaration information and the submission of such to the customs authority.
  • Track and trace Customs files.
  • Interact with customs authorities to address any issues/questions that may arise during the clearing process.
  • Attend any customs inspections or present documents to customs authorities when such are requested.
  • Act as the liaison between the customs authorities (or other government agencies and customers)
  • Ensure timely customs clearance of cargo to customer for Import and Export shipments.
  • Verify documents received for Import and Export customs purposes are compliant and correct.
  • Interact with our customers in arranging their international shipments, meeting customer service standards.
  • Contribute to maintain strong relationships with customs officers.
  • Ensure compliance at all times to regulations. This includes internal policies and procedures such as Operational Process Standards (OPS) and external government regulations (eg. OEA) or customer policies / requirements.
  • Understand department process flow, constantly looking for areas of improved efficiency.
  • Keep up to date on all regulatory requirements governing the import and export of goods. This includes but is not limited to customs procedures for imports and exports, other government agency requirements i.e. health, agricultural, police and military, export controls and prohibited and restricted goods.
  • Meet KPI standards, as per the company's procedures.
  • Overseas communications, timely responses to emails and requests (internal and external)
Qualifications
  • 6 months to 1 year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Good knowledge of customs brokerage processes and systems
  • Good knowledge of customs legislation, especially with regards to classification, valuation and origin.
  • Understanding of ocean and air documentation process.
  • Knowledge of air, road and ocean transport.
  • Good knowledge of incoterms
  • Effective interpersonal skills, including proven abilities to listen, comprehend, effectively communicate clearly and concisely to obtain positive results.
  • Pro-active, strong organizational skills.
  • Computer skills
  • Fluent in English
Additional Information

Expected base salary $21-$24 per hour

May be eligible for bonus following first year of continuous employment in position.

Expeditors offers excellent benefits:

  • Paid Vacation (first year prorated based off month of hire then eligible for 15 days)
  • Holidays (10)
  • Flexible Days (2)
  • Paid Sick Time (accrual rate of 1 hour of sick time per 30 hours paid)
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employer match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental & Vision Coverage
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (additional eligibility criteria)
  • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DC FSA)
  • Commuter Benefit
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Training and Personnel Development Program
  • Educational Assistance and Reimbursement

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO Guidelines.


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