Customs Entry Writer
Location: Elk Grove Village, IL
Work Arrangement: 100% On-site | No Hybrid or Remote
Industry: International Freight Forwarding / Customs Brokerage / Import-Export Logistics
Job Type: Full-time | W2
Salary: up to $75,000 base
About the Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Customs Entry Writer to join my clients established customs brokerage team in Elk Grove Village, IL.
This is a hands-on opportunity for someone with proven experience writing ocean import customs entries who can take ownership of the process from initial documentation through Customs clearance and final delivery.
The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of customs entry procedures, HTS classification, PGA requirements, and import documentation, along with the ability to communicate effectively with customers, carriers, truckers, and government agencies.
What You'll Do
- Manage ocean import customs entries from start to finish, from initial file and document review through Customs clearance, release, and final delivery
- Review commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, arrival notices, and other import documentation for accuracy and completeness
- Prepare and submit customs entries accurately and in accordance with CBP requirements
- Research and assign HTS classifications and product codes as needed
- Handle PGA requirements involving agencies such as FDA, CPSC, EPA , and other government agencies
- Monitor Customs, FDA, and PGA releases and identify and resolve holds, issues, or entry/census errors
- Communicate with customers regarding Customs exams, holds, documentation issues, and shipment delays
- Track containers throughout the import process, including pre-entry, Customs clearance, and final delivery
- Prepare and send delivery orders to trucking companies once shipments are cleared
- Communicate with customers, truckers, carriers, and other parties to keep shipments moving and provide timely status updates
- Manage assigned files essentially A–Z through release and delivery , excluding billing
- Maintain a high level of accuracy while managing a high-volume workload
- Build and maintain strong customer relationships through consistent communication and follow-through
Required:
- 3–5+ years of hands-on customs entry writing / customs brokerage experience
- Proven experience handling ocean import customs entries
- Strong understanding of customs entry preparation and electronic filing
- Experience with HTS classification/product coding
- Hands-on experience with PGA requirements , including agencies such as FDA, CPSC, and EPA
- Experience monitoring Customs/PGA releases and resolving entry issues
- Strong import documentation review skills
- Experience tracking containers and coordinating final delivery
- Ability to communicate directly with customers, carriers, truckers, and government agencies
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to manage a high-volume, detail-oriented workload
- Stable work history and demonstrated longevity in previous roles
- Ability and willingness to work fully onsite
Compensation & Benefits
- up to $75,000 base salary , depending on experience
- Employee ownership through ESOP in lieu of 401K
- Medical insurance — company pays 100% of employee medical coverage
- Dental and vision coverage
- 2 weeks PTO to start
- Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM + Friday: 8:00 AM–3:00 PM
Why Join This Team
This is an opportunity to join a small, established, employee-owned company where your work has a direct impact on customers and day-to-day operations.
You won't be lost in a large organization. You'll have the opportunity to take ownership of customs entries and established customer relationships while becoming an important part of a highly experienced team.
The company has a strong history of employee longevity and internal growth , with leadership that has spent decades building their careers within the organization. As the business continues to evolve, this role offers the opportunity to step into meaningful responsibility and make a lasting impact.
If you're an experienced Customs Entry Writer looking for a stable, long-term opportunity where your expertise is valued and you can truly own your work, this could be an excellent fit.