Customs Entry Writer

1.0 Position Summary

The Customs Entry Writer is responsible for the end-to-end handling of import files from initial file opening through entry filing, compliance auditing, and invoicing. This position will include Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) admissions (e214) and weekly consumption entries, Importer Security Filing (ISF), shipment tracking, and documentation follow-up. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage a high volume of files across multiple stages of the import lifecycle.

This role operates in a brokerage or logistics office setting, balancing recurring FTZ filing cycles with day-to-day file intake, tracking, documentation follow-up, and invoicing support across all modes of transportation – Air/Ocean FCL/Ocean LCL/Truck/Rail.

2.0 Reporting

Reports to VP of Regulatory U.S. Operations; Works Remote

Current FLSA Status: Exempt

HR FLSA Status Recommendation: Non-Exempt

3.0 Essential Functions, Job Duties, and Responsibilities

1. File Intake & Setup
   1. Open new files
   2. Track down and follow up on required shipping documents — Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Arrival Notices, etc.
   3. Pre-key files to prepare entries for review and filing
2. ISF (Importer Security Filing)
   1. File ISF (10+2) submissions accurately and within CBP-required timeframes prior to vessel loading
   2. Open and manage files associated with ISF filings, ensuring supporting documentation is collected and organized
3. Tracking & Documentation
   1. Track and trace files through each stage of the shipment/entry lifecycle, proactively identifying delays or missing information
   2. Attach arrival notices to files, ensuring firms code and updated container/vessel/air/in-bond tracking information are correctly recorded
   3. Maintain up-to-date file status for internal visibility and client communication
4. FTZ Admissions (e214)
   1. Prepare and file electronic Zone Admission entries (e214) via ABI/ACE for merchandise entering a Foreign Trade Zone
   2. Verify admission documentation against zone inventory records prior to filing
   3. Confirm merchandise status at admission (Privileged Foreign, Non-Privileged Foreign, or Domestic)
   4. Follow up with concurrence messaging and piece count verifications
5. FTZ Weekly Entry Processing
   1. Consolidate weekly zone withdrawals for consumption into weekly entry filings
   2. Apply compliance data (Section 301, ADD/CVD, SPI, FDA, USDA Lacey Act, EPA TSCA, NOP)
   3. File completed weekly entries via ABI/ACE within required CBP timeframes
6. Audit & Invoicing
   1. Audit files prior to invoicing to confirm accuracy of charges, duty calculations, and documentation completeness
   2. Pay arrival notices and non-urgent invoices in a timely manner
   3. Flag discrepancies between billed charges and file documentation before invoices are finalized
7. General Compliance & Coordination
   1. Ensure entries comply with standard entry requirements under 19 CFR Parts 141/142 and FTZ under 19 CFR 146
   2. Monitor for Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirements and confirm necessary licenses/permits are on file
   3. Respond to CBP requests for information (CBP Form 28/29), holds, or exams as needed
   4. Support post-summary corrections (PSCs) and protests
   5. Maintain records in accordance with CBP's 5-year recordkeeping requirement
   6. Communicate with importers, freight forwarders, carriers, NVOs, and internal zone personnel to resolve documentation, tracking, or billing issues
8. Performs all other duties or projects as assigned.

Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (BA) from four-year college or university; 0-3 years of experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

5.0 Minimum Skills, Knowledge, and Ability Requirements

1. Strong knowledge of compliance and documentation in both ocean and air freight forwarding.
2. Experience with customs entry filing, ISF, or FTZ operations preferred
3. Working knowledge of HTS classification, valuation, and country-of-origin rules
4. Familiarity with ABI/ACE filing systems
5. Proficiency in Excel (INDEX/MATCH, SUMIF, and similar formula-based tools) for entry data reconciliation
6. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage a high volume of files simultaneously
7. Ability to show passion for customer service endeavoring flawless execution.
8. Ability to multi-task and keep up with a fast-paced environment.
9. Ability to focus on problem solving with the ability to work with others in a fast-paced environment.
10.  Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
11. Ability to use time efficiently and to set challenging goals and objectives.
12. Desired but not required:
    • BILINGUAL- ENGLISH AND SPANISH. 
    • Working knowledge of CargoWise

6.0 Work Conditions, Physical and/or Mental Requirements

1. Sedentary physical activity requiring reaching, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, feeling, repetitive motions, talking, and hearing.
2. Visual requirement is for close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.
3. 90% or more time is spent looking directly at a computer.
4. Employee is frequently required to stand, walk (or otherwise be mobile).
5. Employee is frequently required to lift and carry a minimum of 10 pounds.
6. Ability to deal with stressful situations as they arise.

Duties are primarily performed in an office environment. Minimal physical effort is required. Lifting and carrying requirements of up to 15 pounds. Occasional or frequent ability to move boxes from one location to another. 

These physical and/or mental requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related requirements may be added by the Company on an as-needed basis. Reasonable accommodations, where required by law, will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.