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10 Reasons to bring customs function in-house

International trade involves complex customs processes and regulations that can significantly impact the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of a trader’s operations. While some traders may choose to outsource their customs function to external service providers, there are compelling reasons why bringing the customs function in-house can be beneficial.

 

Traders involved in international trade often rely on customs brokers to navigate the complexities of customs clearance. However, challenges can arise in this process.

 

One common challenge is compliance and regulatory issues, as customs regulations are complex and subject to frequent changes. Communication and coordination issues may also arise, especially when dealing with language barriers or different time zones.

 

Limited visibility and control over the customs clearance process can pose challenges, as traders may not have real-time information or decision-making authority. 

 

Customisation and optimisation limitations may also be a challenge, as customs brokers may offer standardized services that may not fully align with a trader’s unique needs.

 

Cost considerations, data security and confidentiality concerns, and dependence on a single provider are also challenges that traders may face.  It is crucial for traders to be aware of these challenges and work closely with their customs brokers to address them, ensure compliant and efficient customs clearance, and optimize their international trade operations.

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10 Reasons why Traders should bring trade inhouse

  1. Cost savings: By bringing the customs team in house, you can save up to 70% on the cost of outsourcing customs services. An in-house team can often perform the same tasks at a lower cost.
  2. Increased control: Having an in-house customs team gives you more control over the process. You can set your own standards and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulations and internal policies.
  3. Better communication: An in-house team can communicate more effectively with other departments within the organisation. This can lead to smoother operations and fewer mistakes.
  4. Faster response times: An in-house team can respond more quickly to changes in regulations or other issues that may affect your shipments. This can help you avoid delays or other problems.
  5. Expertise: An in-house team can develop expertise in your specific industry and the customs regulations that apply to it. This can lead to more efficient and effective operations.
  6. Increased flexibility: An in-house team can adapt to your changing needs more quickly than an outsourced team. You can add or remove team members as needed, and adjust their roles and responsibilities as required.
  7. Improved security: An in-house team can help ensure the security of your data and customers’ data by maintaining strict control over the process. 
  8. Better customer service: An in-house team can provide better customer service by understanding your business and your customers’ needs. They can also respond more quickly to inquiries or concerns.
  9. Increased transparency: An in-house team can provide greater transparency into the customs process. You can have greater visibility into the status of your shipments and any issues that arise.
  10. Competitive advantage: By having an in-house customs team, you can differentiate yourself from competitors who rely on outsourced services. This can give you a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bringing the customs function in-house can offer traders numerous benefits, including increased cost control, compliance and risk management, enhanced visibility and control, faster response times, specialized expertise, improved communication and collaboration, data security, flexibility and scalability, and strategic advantage. Traders should carefully evaluate their specific needs and requirements to determine if bringing the customs function in-house is the right choice for their international trade operations.

About iCustoms

iCustoms is an all-in-one solution helping businesses automate customs processes more efficiently. With AI-powered and machine-learning capabilities, iCustoms is designed to streamline your all customs procedures in a few minutes, cut additional costs and save time.

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