How SRT Freight Brokerage Moves Goods Across Borders

What SRT Freight Brokerage Does

SRT Freight Brokerage is a customs broker licensed to move freight across international borders on behalf of importers and exporters. The company handles the paperwork, tariff calculations, and regulatory compliance that federal law requires before goods can enter or leave the United States. Rather than shippers managing customs themselves, SRT acts as the intermediary between the shipper, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the carrier.

Customs brokers like SRT must hold a license issued by CBP and maintain a bond—a financial may provide that they will follow the law and pay duties owed. This bond protects both the government and the importer if something goes wrong during the clearance process. SRT's role is to know the rules for different product categories, file the correct documents, and move shipments through ports or land borders without delay.

The company typically works with businesses that import goods regularly—manufacturers, retailers, distributors—rather than one-time shippers. They charge a fee for their services, which varies depending on the complexity of the shipment, the port of entry, and the type of goods being cleared.

Key Takeaways

• SRT Freight Brokerage holds a CBP license and bond, meaning they are authorized to clear shipments through U.S. customs on your behalf.
• The broker handles tariff classification, duty calculation, and all required paperwork so you do not have to file directly with CBP.
• Brokers charge a fee for their services, and costs depend on shipment complexity, port location, and the goods being imported or exported.
• Using a licensed broker can speed up clearance and reduce the risk of penalties or shipment delays caused by filing errors.
• You remain responsible for the accuracy of product information and the payment of duties, even though the broker files on your behalf.

How SRT Clears a Shipment

When you ship goods internationally, SRT begins by gathering information about what you are sending: the product description, country of origin, weight, value, and intended use. This information determines the tariff code—a number that tells CBP what duty rate applies. A single misclassification can result in underpaid duties or a hold-up at the port.

SRT then prepares the entry documents, which include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any certificates or permits the product requires. For example, food imports need FDA documentation; textiles need country-of-origin labels; some electronics need FCC approval. SRT knows which documents each product category demands and submits them to CBP before or as the shipment arrives.

Once CBP reviews the entry, they either release the shipment or flag it for inspection. If duties are owed, SRT calculates the amount and arranges payment. The broker then notifies you of any additional fees or holds, and the shipment moves to its final destination. The entire process typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the port and whether CBP needs to physically examine the goods.

When You Might Use SRT Instead of Filing Yourself

Small businesses and one-time importers sometimes file their own entries with CBP using the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), the government's online system. However, this requires learning tariff codes, understanding duty rates, and knowing which documents each product needs. Mistakes can delay shipments or trigger penalties.

Businesses that import regularly—even a few times per year—usually find it cheaper and faster to hire a broker. SRT's knowledge of tariff classification, port procedures, and CBP requirements means fewer delays and lower risk of costly errors. If your shipment is complex (multiple product types, hazardous materials, or items requiring special permits), a broker becomes nearly essential.

You also benefit from SRT's relationships with port authorities and CBP officers. Brokers work at the same ports repeatedly and know the local procedures, which can speed up clearance. If a problem arises—a document is missing or a tariff code is questioned—the broker can often resolve it faster than you could on your own.

Costs and Fees

SRT charges a brokerage fee for each shipment, typically ranging from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the shipment's complexity and the port of entry. A straightforward import of one product type at a major port like Charleston or Savannah costs less than a multi-item shipment at a smaller port or one requiring special permits.

In addition to the broker's fee, you pay the actual duties and taxes owed on the goods. These are separate from the brokerage charge and are determined by the tariff code and the shipment's declared value. You may also pay port fees, inspection fees, or charges for storage if the shipment sits at the port waiting for clearance.

Ask SRT for a quote before shipping. They should be able to estimate the brokerage fee based on your product type and port of entry. Some brokers offer volume discounts if you import regularly, which can reduce your per-shipment cost over time.

SRT's License and Bond

SRT holds a Customs Broker License issued by CBP, which means the company has passed an exam on tariff law, CBP regulations, and entry procedures. The license is not permanent—brokers must renew it every two years and maintain continuing education. You can verify SRT's license status by searching the CBP Broker and Importer Bond List on the CBP website.

The company also maintains a Customs Broker Bond, a financial may provide that protects the government and importers if the broker fails to pay duties or violates regulations. If SRT goes out of business or commits fraud, the bond can be used to cover losses. This bond is a legal requirement for all customs brokers and is one reason you should only work with licensed brokers, not unlicensed freight forwarders.

What You Need to Provide to SRT

To clear your shipment, SRT will ask you for the commercial invoice (showing the buyer, seller, and price), the packing list (itemizing what is in each box), the bill of lading (the carrier's receipt), and the country of origin for each product. You should also provide any certificates, permits, or test results the product requires—for example, a Certificate of Analysis for chemicals or a phytosanitary certificate for plants.

You must declare the true value of the goods and the true country of origin. Undervaluing goods to avoid duties or misrepresenting where they come from is illegal and can result in penalties, seizure, or criminal charges. SRT cannot file accurate entries without accurate information from you, and you remain responsible for the truthfulness of what you declare.

If your product is new to you or you are unsure about its tariff classification, tell SRT. They can research the code or advise you to request a Binding Tariff Classification (BTC) from CBP before importing in volume. This protects you by locking in the tariff rate for that product.

Alternatives to Using a Broker

If you import only occasionally or in very small quantities, you might file your own entry through ACE. CBP offers free training on how to use the system, and the filing fee is lower than hiring a broker. However, you bear the full risk of errors, and CBP penalties for misclassification or underpaid duties can exceed the cost of hiring a broker in the first place.

Some companies use a freight forwarder instead of a customs broker. Forwarders arrange transportation and can coordinate with brokers, but they are not licensed to file customs entries themselves. If a forwarder offers to clear your shipment without mentioning a licensed broker, that is a red flag—they may be breaking the law.

Another option is to work with your carrier or shipping line. Many large carriers have in-house brokerage services or partnerships with brokers. This can simplify coordination, though you should still understand the fees and confirm the broker is licensed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if SRT is a real, licensed customs broker?

Search the CBP Broker and Importer Bond List on the CBP website (cbp.gov). Enter SRT's name or license number. If the company appears with an active license and bond, it is authorized to clear shipments. If it does not appear, do not use them—unlicensed brokers expose you to legal liability and loss of goods.

What happens if SRT makes a mistake on my entry?

CBP may assess additional duties or penalties if an entry is incorrect. SRT's bond covers some losses, but you may still owe money. Most brokers carry errors and omissions insurance as well. Ask SRT about their liability coverage and what happens if an error occurs. Get the terms in writing before you ship.

Can SRT help me if I am exporting goods from South Carolina?

Yes. Customs brokers handle both imports and exports. For exports, SRT files the Shipper's Export Declaration (or the electronic equivalent) and ensures your goods meet the regulations of the destination country. Export rules vary by product and destination, so a broker's knowledge is valuable here too.

How long does it take SRT to clear a shipment?

Most shipments clear within three to five business days if all documents are correct and CBP does not inspect the goods. Inspections or missing documents can add days or weeks. Ask SRT for a timeline based on your specific shipment and port of entry.

Do I have to use the same broker for every shipment?

No. You can use different brokers for different shipments, though working with the same broker over time can build efficiency and may lower your per-shipment cost. Some importers use one broker for routine shipments and another for complex or specialized goods.