Import and customs compliance consultant for online sellers

E-commerce sellers, small retailers, restaurants and contractors that import products and want to avoid delays, fines and surprise costs.

Project fees for import setup and landed cost reviews, plus monthly retainers for ongoing checks and supplier support.

• Understanding of duties, tariffs and import documents
• Attention to detail with paperwork
• Comfortable working with clients over video and email

• Customs brokers are licensed by the federal government, so check what you can do as a consultant and refer clients to a licensed broker for filing entries
• Consider professional liability insurance as well as general liability
• Tariffs and trade rules can change quickly, so keep your knowledge current and avoid guaranteeing outcomes
• Check your state and city for business license and tax registration requirements, and set up a contract that limits your responsibility

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $400 to $3,000, depending on your research subscriptions, website, training, contracts and insurance. Consider professional liability insurance alongside general liability, since clients rely on your guidance.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $5,000, depending on your client count, your fees and the complexity of each client's imports. Plan on at least about 6 hours a week to get going.

Customs brokers are licensed by the federal government, so check what you can do as a consultant and refer clients to a licensed broker for filing entries. Also check state and city business license and tax registration rules, and use a contract that limits your responsibility.