Hunter Campbell’s Mastering Supply Chain series profiles jobs within the Supply Chain job family including jobs in demand, salaries, and employment prospects.
In this article, the role of Customs Broker is in the spotlight.
Purpose of the Role
New Zealand’s trade regulations can be complex and difficult to navigate. The purpose of a Customs Broker is to represent importers and exporters (on behalf of businesses) to secure the ‘clearance’ of their goods. This ensures full compliance with New Zealand customs regulations by reviewing import and export documentation, accurately classifying goods using an international tariff-coding system, managing cargo documentation, and coordinating with forwarders and transport providers to monitor the movement of goods during transit. The role of a Customs Broker is crucial to facilitating the smooth and compliant flow of goods in international trade and to protect New Zealand’s border security.
Recruitment Forecast 2025
Customs Brokers are in constant demand, as New Zealand heavily relies on the import and export of goods. Navigating compliance and regulatory requirements can be complex, making Customs Brokers essential for the efficient processing of cargo. While the shipping industry has seen a recent slowdown, the need for skilled and experienced Customs Brokers in New Zealand remains strong.
Career Prospects
A career as a Customs Broker in New Zealand opens multiple pathways. Customs Brokers may work for freight forwarders, shipping lines, customs brokerage firms, or as in-house brokers for importers and exporters. Independent contracting is another viable option. With experience, Customs Brokers can progress to senior roles, handling more complex import and export cases or pursuing management positions within Customs or Freight Forwarding. There’s also the opportunity to transition into government roles, contributing to customs policy development, trade facilitation, or customs law enforcement.
Key Skills Required
To become a Customs Broker, obtaining a Unique User Identifier (UUI) through the Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Federation (CBAFF) is essential. Achieving the CBAFF UUI Course Certificate requires completing four course blocks, with additional courses available for further advancement. Some companies and freight forwarders support career development by covering the cost of the CBAFF UUI Certificate for their employees.
Beyond the CBAFF UUI, a successful Customs Broker must have a sharp eye for detail to ensure all documentation and clearances are accurate, adaptability to stay current with changing regulations, and, most importantly, uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity to comply with New Zealand Customs regulations. Excellent time management is also crucial, as delays in clearance can lead to additional costs.
Salary Guide
This information is anecdotal and based on roles Hunter Campbell is currently recruiting or has previously recruited and relate to base salaries. They do not include any additional bonuses or benefits.
The salary for a Customs Broker varies based on experience and employment type. Further education and specialised courses within the industry also offer pathways for growth, allowing Customs Brokers to focus on specific commodities or advance their expertise. Some Customs Brokers progress to Senior Broker roles or pursue leadership or management positions, taking on greater responsibilities.
Below is a current salary guide, reflecting approximate market rates for Customs Brokers at various levels.
- Entry/Junior Customs Clerk – Working towards CBAFF UUI 0-2 years’ experience – $65,000 – $75,000
- Intermediate Customs Broker – CBAFF UUI qualified 2-5 years’ experience – $75,000 – $90,000
- Senior Customs Broker – 5+ years’ experience – $90,000 – $110,000 +
If you would like to find out more about the role of a Customer Service Representative (International Freight Forwarding), please contact consultant Sarah Kennedy. Sarah specialises in the recruitment of Distribution and Logistics. For more news and views, visit our website by clicking here, see what opportunities we have available here or follow us on LinkedIn.