Blinn partners with national association to launch customs specialist training program

One-semester program prepares students for careers as customs entry writers

September 21, 2023

The Blinn College District is partnering with the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cross-Border Threat Screening and Supply-Chain Defense (CBTS) to place students on the path to high-wage, high-demand careers as customs brokers.

This one-semester, non-credit program is self-paced and completed online. It is the industry’s premier continuing education program designed to assist trade professionals in the import industry to become knowledgeable in fundamental import regulations. Students who complete the program are qualified for careers as customs entry writers, which represents the first professional step toward becoming a customs broker.

Customs entry writers review import and export documents, ensure that all customs invoices and shipment papers are present, and prepare paperwork for clearance. These professionals use specialized software to track inventory, apply for drawbacks and refunds, sign documents, organize customs rejections, answer client questions, complete clerical duties, and monitor the processing of goods going through customs. They may also plan shipment routes, check for hazardous qualifications, review transit time, security, and cost, and arrange a booking with carriers and customers.

To become a customs broker, individuals must pass an examination and background investigation prior to becoming licensed. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, compliance officers such as customs brokers earn a median salary of $76,980.

Enrollment in the program is $750 and scholarships may be available. For more information, visit www.blinn.edu/customs-specialist or email enrollment@ncbfaa.org.