Small customs brokerage office near a border or hub

Trucking companies, freight forwarders, manufacturers and regional importers and exporters who need fast, local help with border clearance.

Fees per entry and per shipment, plus charges for permits, advice and compliance services. More staff and more clients means more entries processed.

• Strong knowledge of customs rules and tariff classification
• Managing staff and deadlines
• Building relationships with carriers and shippers
• Staying calm when shipments are held up

• CBSA licensing and financial security (bond) requirements, which are significant, so check the current rules before committing
• Errors and omissions and commercial general liability insurance
• Check WCB or WSIB registration and payroll rules in your province once you hire
• Cash flow, since you may pay duties on a client's behalf before they pay you, so set clear payment terms
• Big brokerages compete on price, so you need a clear niche or better service

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on your office space, staffing, insurance and licensing needs. Cash flow matters too, since you may pay duties for clients before they pay you.

Check CBSA licensing and financial security (bond) requirements, which are significant, before committing. Also check errors and omissions and commercial general liability insurance, plus WCB or WSIB registration and payroll rules in your province once you hire.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on your clients, staff and shipment volume. Plan for at least about 40 hours a week, and find a clear niche since larger brokerages compete on price.