# Tasks & work activities — import export specialist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 13-1041.08 (Customs Brokers).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Sign documents on behalf of clients, using powers of attorney.
- **[Core]** Provide advice on transportation options, types of carriers, or shipping routes.
- **[Core]** Post bonds for the products being imported or assist clients in obtaining bonds.
- **[Core]** Insure cargo against loss, damage, or pilferage.
- **[Core]** Obtain line releases for frequent shippers of low-risk commodities, high-volume entries, or multiple-container loads.
- **[Core]** Contract with freight forwarders for destination services.
- **[Core]** Arrange for transportation, warehousing, or product distribution of imported or exported products.
- **[Core]** Request or compile necessary import documentation, such as customs invoices, certificates of origin, and cargo-control documents.
- **[Core]** Stay abreast of changes in import or export laws or regulations by reading current literature, attending meetings or conferences, or conferring with colleagues.
- **[Core]** Quote duty and tax rates on goods to be imported, based on federal tariffs and excise taxes.
- **[Core]** Prepare papers for shippers to appeal duty charges.
- **[Core]** Pay, or arrange for payment of, taxes and duties on shipments.
- **[Core]** Monitor or trace the location of goods.
- **[Core]** Inform importers and exporters of steps to reduce duties and taxes.
- **[Core]** Confer with officials in various agencies to facilitate clearance of goods through customs and quarantine.
- **[Core]** Classify goods according to tariff coding system.
- **[Core]** Calculate duty and tariff payments owed on shipments.
- **[Core]** Apply for tariff concessions or for duty drawbacks and other refunds.
- **[Core]** Advise customers on import and export restrictions, tariff systems, insurance requirements, quotas, or other customs-related matters.
- **[Core]** Prepare and process import and export documentation according to customs regulations, laws, or procedures.
- **[Core]** Clear goods through customs and to their destinations for clients.
- **[Supplemental]** Suggest best methods of packaging or labeling products.
- **[Supplemental]** Maintain relationships with customs brokers in other ports to expedite clearing of cargo.

## Detailed work activities

- Advise others on business or operational matters.
- Advise others on financial matters.
- Advise others on legal or regulatory compliance matters.
- Advise others on logistics topics.
- Calculate data to inform organizational operations.
- Coordinate logistics or other business operations.
- Coordinate regulatory documentation activities.
- Develop business relationships.
- Estimate costs of goods or services.
- Examine product information to ensure compliance with regulations.
- Monitor inventories of products or materials.
- Negotiate contracts with clients or service providers.
- Obtain documentation to authorize activities.
- Oversee business processes.
- Pay charges, fees, or taxes.
- Prepare documentation for contracts, transactions, or regulatory compliance.
- Prepare regulatory or compliance documentation.
- Submit financial applications.
- Update knowledge of legal or regulatory environments.
