Customs Compliance Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Customs Compliance Specialist will be a part of our Corporate Logistics team and has extensive knowledge of HTS codes. This position is responsible for classification of arts and crafts products under the harmonized tariff schedules. This individual will ensure the company maintains import compliance with all laws and regulations.

Responsibilities:

• Perform classification functions including maintenance of applicable databases by reviewing product build of materials and images of craft components and activity kits to classify under the US & Canada, LATAM, EUR and Asian HTS schedules.
• Research & verify duty rates and classifications for products for multiple countries.
• Communicate with customs brokers on any documentation or classification issues to ensure the proper and timely filing of customs entries.
• Provide instructions to overseas offices/agents concerning classification and/or documentation issues, trade developments established by government agencies and related compliance measures.
• Research trade websites to stay abreast of trade developments and negotiations. Communicate updates to production and logistics departments as required.
• Work closely with HGU global offices for US and International HTS/Duty related support.
• Responsible for documentation requirements in accordance with FDA (including Product Codes), TSCAs, LADs, and any other government partnering agencies (GPAs) relating to our product lines.
• Respond to customs audits and trade compliance verification programs issued by Customs.
• Conduct periodic internal reviews or audits to ensure that compliance procedures are followed.
• Ability to work with internal stakeholders to minimize any adverse impact from US tariff changes.
• Accurately classify imported products under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and applicable International Tariff Schedules.
• Apply GRI’s, Explanatory Notes, and Customs rulings (i.e., CROSS) to determine and document correct classifications.
• Maintain up-to-date expertise on HTSUS changes, rulings, and legal notes to ensure full compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
• Determine tariff classifications for complex, multi-component, and custom-built products using GRIs 1-6 and CBP guidelines.
• Research and analyze CBP Binding Rulings (CROSS) to validate and support classification.
• Maintain and apply detailed knowledge of Section 301 (China Tariffs), Section 232 (Steel/Aluminum/Copper) including applicable exclusions and compliance requirements, and any other applicable tariffs related to our product base.
• Assess product eligibility for tariff exclusions and work with cross-functional teams to implement duty mitigation strategies.
• Monitor and analyze changes in global tariff schedules, trade remedies, and trade agreements (i.e., USMCA, EU TARIC).
• Collaborate with internal teams to collect and review specifications for classification purposes.
• Support IL Manager with classification reviews as part of import audits and reviews.
• Contribute to the development of internal classification standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training materials for broader compliance awareness.

Skills and Qualifying Experience:

• Extensive knowledge of product classification and tariff schedules (HTS code knowledge is required).
  • Knowledge of Section 301, 232, and Reciprocal Tariffs required.
  • Toys and/or arts & crafts product classification experience HIGHLY preferred.
• Knowledge and active usage of US HTS website required.
• Strong knowledge of HTSUS, GRIs, Explanatory Notes, and CBP classification regulations.
• 5+ years of experience in HTS classification required.
• Experience in Global Trade Compliance and classification.
• US Licensed Customs Broker a plus.
• Effective interpersonal communication skills required (oral and written) with ability to relate with multiple internal (i.e., Buying Office, Finance, Product Development, etc.) and external (i.e. brokers, US and/or Canadian government agencies, etc.) stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and PC skills required, with an emphasis on Microsoft Office products (i.e. Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Detail-oriented, able to multi-task critical classification priorities, and possess a sense of urgency to consistently complete assignments on-time.

*Please note, this role can be located anywhere in the U.S.*