Guides

Know what you're paying for

Plain-language guides to customs brokerage fees, broker service and the costs that never show up on the quote, written by people who've worked in brokerage. Focused on Canada and the US, useful wherever you import.

7 min read Why did I get charged a brokerage fee? Courier fees explained You ordered something online, and the courier wants money before they'll hand it over. Here's what that bill is made of. 5 min read UPS brokerage fees in Canada: what you're actually paying for The UPS bill at your door is usually three or four charges rolled into one. Here's how to read it. 6 min read How to avoid brokerage fees from UPS, FedEx, DHL and Purolator You can't always avoid them. But you can often cut them down, or stop paying twice for the same work. 6 min read How much should a customs broker charge? There's no single normal price. But there is a normal structure, and a few signs that you're paying too much. 6 min read Import bonds and RPP security: what's a normal fee? It depends on your duties, your volume and who posts the security. We can check yours. 6 min read How to switch customs brokers, and choose the right one Switching is easier than most importers think. Choosing well is the part that takes care. 6 min read How customs brokerage fees add up The entry fee is the number you were quoted. It's rarely the number you pay. 5 min read How volume changes what you should pay your broker An importer clearing 60 trucks a month shouldn't be on the same rate card as one clearing three. 6 min read The hidden cost of a slow broker: trucks stuck at the border When your broker doesn't answer, your carrier waits. Then your carrier sends you the bill. 6 min read Classification audits: the work a lazy broker skips A wrong tariff code can cost you for years before anyone notices. A good broker goes looking. 5 min read Price isn't everything. But good brokerage shouldn't cost a fortune. The best broker for you is rarely the cheapest or the most expensive. It's the one charging a fair price for work they actually do.

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