Pre 9-11 Customs officer was assigned to the same station all the time looked at cargo & paper entrys all day. If you were a regular and something they were familiar with it was easy to clear. Now they clear at central offices via the internet sending the release back to the port of entry. Guy on station is mostly involved in inspection and enforcement. You get it right or go home, no help available like we used to see.
Hidden charge is demurrage. Shipment has so many "free days" take longer demurrage builds, Paperwork problem go into demurrage it can be over 80 bucks a day. Something is questionable "Intensive" exam is called and farmed out to sub-contractors. Intensive is real expensive. System flags new importers, far less exam with regular bonded importers.
Working in Ocean Shipping I have cleared a lot of ships, foreign repairs, supplies and cargo over the years. You can do our own; have to have a license to clear for someone else. Personal firearm I consign to a FFL licensed importer notify party on the bill of lading my designated licensed customs broker. Cheaper in the long run
Boats
