Locate suitable candidates through a nearby Commerce Department Export Assistance Center or local international trade council. Make sure the company has been licensed by the International Air Transport Association, Federal Maritime Commission or U.S. Customs Service as appropriate. Check the company's length of time in business, financial stability, and reputation in the industry. Basically, they're two different animals doing somewhat different things. Fortunately, both services are frequently provided by the same company.
Customs brokers handle importing.
Freight forwarders are exporters, whether the goods are going to another state or to a foreign country. While American customs brokers work for domestic and foreign companies, the most frequent customers are foreign manufacturers or shippers seeking to move product into the United States. These agents are familiar with the import rules and regulations of foreign countries, the export regulations of the U.S. government, the methods of shipping and the documents related to foreign trade. D.C. While many of its members are both brokers and forwarders, some work just one side of the street. Inquire about fees.