Import compliance advisor for small businesses

Small importers, online sellers, product startups, and small manufacturers buying parts from abroad.

Fixed-price packages (such as a classification and duty review or a compliance check-up), hourly consulting, or a monthly retainer for ongoing questions.

• Comfortable reading regulations and the tariff schedule
• Clear written and spoken explanations
• Attention to detail with documents
• Background in freight, import/export or supply chain helps

• Handling customs business for others, such as filing entries or paying duties on a client's behalf, generally requires a customs broker license from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Check where the line is before you offer any service.
• Errors and omissions insurance, since wrong advice can cost clients money in duties or penalties
• Rules and tariffs change often, so keep up with CBP guidance and use written disclaimers
• Check your city or county for a business license and any home occupation rules or HOA limits

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your website, reference tools, insurance and business registration. Because you advise from home, premises costs are usually minimal.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $6,000, depending on how many clients you take, your rates and the complexity of their imports. You can start with about 8 hours a week.

Handling customs business for others, such as filing entries or paying duties for a client, generally requires a customs broker license from CBP, so check where the line is. Also check errors and omissions insurance and local business license rules.