Customs Specialist, Entry Writer

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: Customs Specialist, Entry Writer 🔹 Company: DSV 🔹 Location: South San Francisco, California, United States 🔹 Job Type: On-site 🔹 Category: Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage 🔹 Date Posted: July 15, 2025 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: - Ensuring compliance with customs regulations - Preparing and submitting accurate customs documentation - Collaborating with clients, government agencies, and internal teams - Minimizing customs-related delays and ensuring efficient transportation operations ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of international trade and customs procedures, as well as the ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines. 📋 Key Responsibilities ✅ Prepare and submit customs documentation, including entry forms, invoices, and other required documents. ✅ Classify goods according to customs regulations and determine appropriate duty rates. ✅ Coordinate with clients, carriers, and government agencies to gather necessary information for customs clearance. ✅ Ensure compliance with customs laws and regulations, including tariff classifications, valuation, and country of origin requirements. ✅ Track and monitor customs entries to ensure timely processing and resolve any issues or delays. ✅ Communicate with customs officials, brokers, and other stakeholders to resolve any customs-related inquiries or problems. ✅ Maintain accurate records of customs transactions and documentation for audit purposes. ✅ Stay up-to-date with changes in customs regulations, trade agreements, and industry practices. ✅ Collaborate with internal teams, such as transportation and logistics, to ensure smooth movement of goods across borders. ✅ Provide guidance and support to colleagues on customs-related matters. ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: - No formal education requirements specified Experience: - 2+ years of experience in customs brokerage or a related field - Experience with import and export documentation and customs clearance procedures - Familiarity with international trade and transportation processes Required Skills: - Strong knowledge of customs regulations and procedures - Proficiency in using customs brokerage software and systems - Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in preparing customs documentation - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Effective communication and interpersonal skills - Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines - Familiarity with international trade agreements and requirements - Knowledge of transportation and logistics operations - Proficiency in using Microsoft Office suite Preferred Skills: - Bachelor's degree in international trade, supply chain management, or a related field - Customs broker license or certification - Experience working with a variety of commodities and industries - Familiarity with Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) and other customs clearance systems - Experience with specialized customs processes such as bonded warehousing, drawback, or temporary importation ASSUMPTION: While a bachelor's degree and customs broker license are preferred, they are not strictly required for this role. Relevant experience and strong knowledge of customs regulations are more important. 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $22.50 - $35.00 per hour - The expected base pay is $22.50 - $35.00 per hour. Actual base compensation will be determined based on various factors including job-related knowledge, geographical location, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Benefits: - DSV offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off. For a detailed list of benefits, please visit the DSV careers website. Working Hours: 40 hours per week - This role follows a standard full-time work arrangement with no specified remote or hybrid components. ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for this role, experience level, and location. Actual compensation may vary based on the factors mentioned above. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage - DSV operates in a dynamic and competitive industry, focusing on global transport and logistics solutions. The company works with a wide range of clients, from small family-run businesses to large global corporations, providing and managing supply chain solutions. Company Size: 10,001+ employees - As a large organization, DSV offers numerous opportunities for career growth and development. Working at DSV provides exposure to diverse teams and projects, fostering a dynamic environment for learning and advancement. Founded: 1976 - With nearly five decades of experience, DSV has established a strong reputation in the industry, built on a foundation of expertise, innovation, and customer focus. Company Description: - DSV keeps supply chains flowing in a world of change, providing and managing supply chain solutions for thousands of companies every day. The company's reach is global, yet its presence is local and close to its customers. DSV aspires to lead the way towards a more sustainable future for its industry and is committed to trading on nature’s terms. Company Specialties: - Global transport and logistics - Air freight - Sea freight - Road transport - Rail freight - Special project transport - Contract logistics - Warehousing - Supply chain - Healthcare logistics - Automotive logistics - Technology logistics - Renewable energy logistics - Industrial logistics - Retail/fashion logistics - Green logistics - Full load - Part load - Groupage - Value added services Company Website: dsv.com ASSUMPTION: DSV's extensive industry experience and global presence make it an attractive employer for professionals seeking a stable and forward-thinking work environment. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: Mid-level - This role requires a solid understanding of customs regulations and procedures, as well as relevant industry experience. It is suitable for professionals with 2-5 years of experience in customs brokerage or a related field. Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Customs Manager or a similar supervisor within the customs or logistics department. Work Arrangement: On-site - This role is based in South San Francisco, California, with no remote or hybrid work arrangement specified. Growth Opportunities: - With DSV's extensive industry presence and diverse range of services, there are ample opportunities for career growth and development within the company. This role provides a strong foundation for advancing into more senior customs or logistics positions, as well as potential transitions into related fields such as supply chain management or operations management. ASSUMPTION: DSV's commitment to employee development and growth makes it an ideal place for ambitious professionals looking to advance their careers in the logistics industry. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: Corporate office - DSV's South San Francisco office is a corporate environment, with a professional and collaborative work atmosphere. Office Location(s): South San Francisco, California, United States - The office is located in the South San Francisco area, providing easy access to major transportation hubs and nearby amenities. Geographic Context: - South San Francisco is a suburban area located just south of San Francisco, California. It offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with easy access to the city's cultural attractions, entertainment, and dining options. The area is known for its mild Mediterranean climate, with cool summers and mild winters. Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours - This role follows a standard full-time work schedule, with no specified flexibility in working hours or days. ASSUMPTION: The work environment at DSV's South San Francisco office is likely to be dynamic and collaborative, with a strong focus on teamwork and customer service. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: - The application process for this role may include an initial phone or video screening, followed by one or more in-depth interviews with hiring managers and/or team members. A final round of interviews may be conducted with senior leadership or other relevant stakeholders. Key Assessment Areas: - Customs regulations knowledge and expertise - Attention to detail and accuracy in preparing customs documentation - Analytical and problem-solving skills - Communication and interpersonal skills - Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines - Familiarity with customs brokerage software and systems Application Tips: - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills in customs brokerage, international trade, and logistics. Emphasize any specific experience with customs documentation, clearance procedures, and relevant software tools. - Be prepared to discuss your understanding of customs regulations, trade agreements, and industry trends during the interview. - Research DSV's company culture and values to demonstrate your fit with the organization and its mission. ATS Keywords: Customs Regulations, Customs Documentation, Customs Clearance, International Trade, Logistics Operations, Customs Brokerage Software, Attention to Detail, Problem-Solving Skills, Communication Skills, Customs Compliance, Tariff Classifications, Valuation, Country of Origin Requirements ASSUMPTION: DSV's hiring process is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, industry knowledge, and cultural fit with the organization. Successful applicants will demonstrate a strong understanding of customs regulations and procedures, as well as the ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Customs brokerage software (e.g., Brokerware, CustomsNow, etc.) - Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) - Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) - Other customs clearance systems (e.g., Automated Broker Interface, etc.) ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with relevant customs brokerage software and systems is essential for success in this role. Candidates should be comfortable using these tools and able to quickly learn and adapt to new platforms as needed. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: - Integrity: DSV conducts its business with integrity, respecting different cultures and the dignity and rights of individuals. - Inclusivity: DSV fosters inclusivity and diversity, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. - Sustainability: DSV is committed to trading on nature’s terms and aspires to lead the way towards a more sustainable future for its industry. Work Style: - Collaborative: DSV's work environment is collaborative, with a strong focus on teamwork and customer service. - Dynamic: DSV is a dynamic organization that fosters growth and development opportunities for its employees. - Performance-driven: DSV values performance and aims to shape the future of logistics by delivering high-quality services and meeting customers' needs. Self-Assessment Questions: - How do your personal values align with DSV's company values, particularly in terms of integrity and inclusivity? - How do you approach working collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders, both internally and externally? - Can you provide an example of a time when you had to work under pressure to meet a tight deadline, and how did you handle it? ASSUMPTION: Candidates who demonstrate a strong fit with DSV's company values and work style will be more likely to succeed in this role and contribute to the organization's continued growth and success. ⚠️ Potential Challenges - Customs regulations changes: The customs brokerage industry is subject to frequent changes in regulations, trade agreements, and industry practices. This role requires staying up-to-date with these changes and adapting to new requirements as needed. - High-pressure environment: This role involves working in a high-pressure environment, with tight deadlines and a constant need to ensure customs compliance. Candidates must be able to handle stress and maintain accuracy under pressure. - Technological changes: The logistics and supply chain industry is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and tools being introduced regularly. This role may require learning and adapting to new software and platforms as they become available. - Location-specific challenges: Working in the South San Francisco area may present unique challenges, such as traffic congestion, high cost of living, and competition for talent in the technology and logistics industries. ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will be able to navigate these challenges effectively, demonstrating adaptability, resilience, and a strong commitment to continuous learning and improvement. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison - Customs Compliance Specialist: This role is similar to a Customs Compliance Specialist role, with a focus on ensuring compliance with customs regulations and minimizing customs-related delays. However, the Customs Compliance Specialist role may have a broader scope, including responsibility for developing and implementing customs compliance programs and conducting internal audits. - Customs Broker: A Customs Broker role is similar to this role, with a focus on preparing and submitting customs documentation and ensuring customs compliance. However, the Customs Broker role may involve more direct interaction with customs officials and brokers, as well as responsibility for negotiating customs duties and taxes on behalf of clients. - Supply Chain Analyst: This role is similar to a Supply Chain Analyst role, with a focus on analyzing supply chain data and identifying opportunities for improvement. However, the Supply Chain Analyst role may involve more strategic planning and data-driven decision-making, with less direct involvement in customs clearance and documentation processes. ASSUMPTION: Each of these roles shares some similarities with this role, but also has unique aspects that set it apart. Candidates should consider their career goals and personal preferences when comparing these roles and deciding which one is the best fit for them. 📝 Sample Projects - Customs Clearance Project: Develop and implement a project to streamline customs clearance processes for a specific client, reducing clearance times and minimizing customs-related delays. - Tariff Classification Review: Conduct a comprehensive review of a client's tariff classifications to ensure accuracy and compliance with customs regulations, resulting in potential duty savings and improved customs clearance efficiency. - Customs Documentation Standardization: Standardize customs documentation processes across multiple clients, ensuring consistency and accuracy in customs documentation preparation and submission. ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the types of initiatives that a Customs Specialist, Entry Writer might undertake to improve customs clearance processes, minimize customs-related delays, and enhance overall supply chain efficiency. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview - Role Responsibilities: - Can you describe a typical day or week in this role, and how my responsibilities might evolve over time? - How does this role collaborate with other departments, such as transportation and logistics, to ensure smooth movement of goods across borders? - Team Structure: - How is the customs team structured, and how does this role fit into the broader organizational hierarchy? - Who are the key stakeholders that this role will interact with, both internally and externally? - Company Culture: - How does DSV's company culture support the success of its employees, particularly in this role? - What are some examples of DSV's commitment to employee development and growth? - Customs Regulations: - How does DSV stay up-to-date with changes in customs regulations, trade agreements, and industry practices? - What resources and support are available to help employees stay current with these changes? - Career Growth: - What opportunities exist for career growth and development within DSV, particularly for someone in this role? - How has DSV supported the career advancement of employees in similar roles? ASSUMPTION: These key questions help candidates better understand the role, the team, and the company, enabling them to make informed decisions about their fit with the organization and their potential for growth and success in the role. 📌 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: - Submit your application through the following link: https://jobs.dsv.com/job/South-San-Francisco-Customs-Specialist%2C-Entry-Writer-CA-94080/1225167501/ - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills in customs brokerage, international trade, and logistics. Emphasize any specific experience with customs documentation, clearance procedures, and relevant software tools. - Prepare for your interview by researching DSV's company culture, values, and industry trends. Be ready to discuss your understanding of customs regulations, trade agreements, and industry best practices. - Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative after your interview to express your interest in the role and reiterate your qualifications. - If you are selected for a final round of interviews, be prepared to provide additional information or clarify any aspects of your application or interview performance. ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.