Licensed Customs Brokerage.
Every Entry Type.
Kesco’s licensed customs brokers handle ISF filing and formal and informal entry preparation across all US ports. Your imports clear without the back-and-forth.
- CBP-Licensed Broker
- All US Ports
- 35+ Years
- How It Works
From Pre-Arrival Filing to Cargo Release
Four steps where Kesco manages every customs touchpoint on your behalf, from ISF through delivery release.
1
ISF Filing
Importer Security Filing submitted at least 24 hours before vessel loading. We pull the required data from your commercial documents and file directly in ACE.
2
Entry Preparation
We prepare the entry, classify goods against the HTS, calculate applicable duties, and confirm all supporting documentation is complete before filing.
3
CBP Review
CBP reviews the entry and issues a release, requests additional information, or selects the shipment for examination. We coordinate and respond on your behalf.
4
Release and Handoff
Cargo release is confirmed and passed to your drayage team. We retain all entry documents and handle any post-entry corrections or protests.
Typical Formal Entry Clearance
1-
0
Days
No exam required, complete documentation
Active CBP Filing History
0
+ Years
Every major US port of entry
- What We Cover
All Entry Types.
All US Ports.
Formal and informal entries handled by licensed brokers with 35+ years of CBP filing history.
Formal Entry Filing
Full-service formal entry preparation for commercial shipments, including HTS classification, duty calculation, and all CBP-required documentation.
- ISF and AMS filing
- HTS classification and duty calculation
- CBP exam coordination
Low-Value and E-Commerce Entries
Formal and informal entry filing for low-value and high-volume shipments, processed through ACE. High-volume e-commerce programs supported now that Section 321 de minimis no longer applies.
- ACE portal entry filing
- HTS classification required
- High-volume e-commerce programs supported
Compliance and Post-Entry
AD/CVD screening, trade program eligibility, CBP penalty response, and post-entry amendments handled by licensed brokers.
- Antidumping and CVD screening
- Post-entry amendments and protests
- Trade program eligibility (FTA, GSP)
- Low-value and e-commerce entries
Low-Value and E-Commerce Entry Filing
The Section 321 de minimis exemption was closed by executive order, so shipments valued under $800 no longer clear duty-free. Those goods now require a formal or informal entry, and Kesco files these for importers running high-volume low-value goods, e-commerce return programs, and sample shipments.
- Related Services
Customs Brokerage Connects to the Full Trade Picture
Pair brokerage with classification, drawback, and insurance for complete trade financial coverage.
- Customs Services
Duty Drawback
If your imported goods are later exported or destroyed, Kesco manages the drawback claim to recover up to 99% of duties paid.
- Customs Services
HTS Classification
Accurate 10-digit HTS codes across your commodity catalog, with AD/CVD screening before goods arrive at port.
- Overview
Customs & Financial Services
See how all four services work together under one licensed team with no handoffs to outside brokers.
- FAQ
Customs Brokerage Questions
How licensed brokerage works and clearance timeframes.
A customs broker is a CBP-licensed professional who prepares and files import entries, ISF filings, and compliance documentation on behalf of importers. Licensed brokers are regulated by federal law and act as the intermediary between the importer and US Customs and Border Protection, ensuring goods are classified correctly, duties are calculated accurately, and all regulatory requirements are met.
Informal entries for low-value shipments typically release quickly when documentation is complete. Formal entries for commercial shipments typically release within 1 to 5 business days when no exam is required. Exam holds vary by port and exam type but average 2 to 5 additional business days.
The Section 321 de minimis exemption was closed by executive order, and CBP's Type 86 entry type went with it. Shipments valued at $800 or less are no longer duty-free and now need a formal or informal entry. Kesco files those entries so low-value and e-commerce shipments keep clearing under the current rules.
An Importer Security Filing (ISF), sometimes called 10+2, must be submitted at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto a vessel destined for the US. It includes importer, seller, buyer, and commodity information. Late or inaccurate ISF filings can result in CBP penalties of up to $5,000 per violation.
Yes. Kesco's CBP license covers all US ports of entry, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York/New Jersey, Savannah, Houston, Chicago, and others.
Ready to Clear with a Licensed Broker?
Tell us about your import program, entry types, and ports of entry. We’ll show you how Kesco’s customs team fits.