Import guides

Import Company, Purchasing Agent or Customs Broker: Who Does What and How to Choose

Three different professionals involved in the same shipment. What each one does, where they overlap and who you need at each stage.

A new importer hears three terms and it isn't always clear who is responsible for what. A purchasing agent finds suppliers and manages the order, an international freight forwarder brings the goods, and a customs broker clears them.

A company that manages procurement and import brings the entire chain under one party. The difference matters when something goes wrong and you need to know who to call.

What the full guide will cover

  • Purchasing agent, international freight forwarder and customs broker: areas of responsibility
  • What a company that manages the whole process includes
  • What pricing looks like for each
  • Questions to ask before choosing

The full guide is being written. Have a question on this topic right now? Send us your product details and we'll get back to you with an answer.