GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 10, 2026

Import Agent

Distinct from an importer is the import agent – a customs-recognized or registered intermediary who conducts import procedures on behalf of foreign goods buyers.

Last updated: 10 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://www.shippinglearningcenter.com/glossary/import-agent

Category

Logistics Concept

Reading time

1 min

Words

110

Mentioned in

–

Distinct from an importer is the import agent – a customs-recognized or registered intermediary who conducts import procedures on behalf of foreign goods buyers. The import agent sourcing from overseas suppliers, obtains required documentation (certificates of origin, conformity certificates), lodges goods declarations with customs, calculates and arranges duty payment, and coordinates physical release and onward transport. In many jurisdictions, acting as an import agent requires licensing and adherence to stringent due diligence rules. Freight forwarders and customs brokers frequently serve as import agents, particularly when importers lack capacity or wish to outsource regulatory accountability. Import agent fees are negotiable and depend on shipment volume, transaction complexity and local market rates.

Next steps

Tools that match this term

Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Compare IncotermsClarify duties, cost and riskOpen Calculate transit timeEstimate duration per transport modeOpen

Related Terms

You might also be interested in these terms

Commissioning of a customs agent

Customs agents and customs brokers are licensed specialists engaged by importers, exporters, and freight forwarders to manage bord…

Learn more

Import Declaration

The import declaration is filed when goods cross the customs border of the destination country. The importer or their customs agen…

Learn more

import processing

Import processing distinguishes itself from mere goods entry in that it constitutes a complete service package: a freight forwarde…

Learn more

Import Control Process

When a customs declaration is submitted, the import control process begins: the importer or customs agent provides documentation (…

Learn more

Customs Agent Services

A customs agent service is the professional handling of import and export customs formalities by a licensed customs broker or agen…

Learn more

import tax collection

A process in logistics and customs where import taxes (including customs duties and import VAT) are collected by the sender, carri…

Learn more

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Weekly: Top news, industry facts and insights from the world of logistics – free.

Import Agent

Next steps

Related Terms

Commissioning of a customs agent

Import Declaration

import processing

Import Control Process

Customs Agent Services

import tax collection

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Community Questions & Answers