The training required in order to become a customs broker varies from country to country. Within the United States, all eligible candidates must be licensed by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency. In Canada, all brokers must be licensed by the Canada Border Service Agency. Different countries in Europe have different tests and licensing requirements, as do other countries across the globe. The best way to determine how to become a customs broker in your country is to visit your government's website.
Universally, there are some character traits that any person must possess in order to become a customs broker. Since brokers facilitate the movement of goods in and out of a country, it is important that any broker be well-versed when it comes to communication. Not only do brokers have to work with various government agencies, but these individuals must also work with demanding customers who often have tight deadlines in-mind.
Customs brokers must also be able to handle a vast amount of stress relatively well. Within the brokerage world, it is not uncommon for problems to arise at the last minute. Therefore, you must be able to think quickly and precisely. Brokers who speak a variety of different languages are often in-demand, since goods come from a number of countries across the globe. Even though any broker must possess all of these character traits, none of these traits can be learned overnight.
Prior to attempting to gain a brokerage license, it is a wise idea to seek an apprenticeship with a customs brokerage firm. There are a number of different firms spread across the world, and many of these companies will hire new college graduates. Rarely do brokerage firms hire people who do not have college training, though this is not always the case. By gaining experience within a brokerage firm, you will have a better chance of learning how to become a customs broker on an individual level.
Once all necessary licensing exams have been successfully completed, you can become a customs broker in your country. Keep in mind that you may need additional licenses in order to operate as a broker in other countries. A person who chooses to become a customs broker must have all the attributes listed above in addition to proper hands-on training. Those people who are successful in this field often find the position of a customs broker rewarding and lucrative.