Who We Are
A licensed customs brokerage built for fast-growing importers
Founded in 1995, Advante has 31+ years of in-depth CBP knowledge paired with a modern client portal, so customs clearance is never a guessing game.
Why Advante
Brokerage That Works Differently
Skip the call centers and the unexpected invoices — 31+ years of licensed brokerage, brokers who actually answer, and fees locked in before filing.
Your broker
Direct Access to Brokers
Talk directly with a licensed customs broker about any shipment or filing.
Operations
Round-the-Clock Filing
Filing and clearance run around the clock.
Pricing
Straightforward, Flat Fees
Flat brokerage rates with itemized invoices, so you always know what you owe and why.
What We Do
Logistics Support You Can Rely On
Import Customs Clearance
Quick, compliant entry filing for shipments coming into the country.
Export Clearance
Paperwork and filing handled for cargo headed out.
HS Classification
Correct tariff codes that keep you clear of costly mistakes.
Bonded Warehouse
Secure storage that defers duty until goods are released.
Freight Coordination
End-to-end logistics spanning air, ocean, and ground.
The Process
How Your Cargo Gets Cleared
Submit Your Documents
Send your commercial invoice, packing list, and Bill of Lading through the client portal.
Classification Handled For You
Our brokers determine the correct HS code, calculate duties, and put together your CBP entry.
Entry Goes to CBP
We submit electronically to US Customs and Border Protection and manage any exams or holds that come up.
Cargo Is On Its Way
Once released, your shipment moves forward — follow its status live from your dashboard.
Quick answers
Customs brokerage questions, answered
Direct answers importers ask first. For more, see the full FAQ.
What does a customs broker do, and is one required?
- A CBP-licensed customs broker files import entries, classifies goods, and calculates duties so cargo can clear U.S. Customs. A broker is not legally required for every shipment, but using one reduces delays, penalties, and exam risk. CBP licenses brokers under 19 C.F.R. Part 111.
How do I get started with Advante?
- Request a free quote or email a licensed broker. Onboarding is usually finished in under 24 hours: we assign a broker, set up your portal, and collect the documents needed to file.
Do I need a customs bond?
- Yes. CBP requires a customs bond on commercial shipments valued over $2,500. Choose a single-entry bond for one shipment or a continuous bond if you import regularly. Advante can secure either type for you.
What's an ISF, and when does it need to be filed?
- ISF (Importer Security Filing, also called 10+2) is required for ocean cargo bound for the U.S. and must be filed at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded at the foreign port. Late or missing ISF filings can trigger penalties of up to $5,000 per violation.
How are import duties figured out?
- Duties are a percentage of customs value, generally invoice amount plus insurance and freight. The rate depends on the 10-digit HTS code and country of origin. Chinese-origin goods may also owe Section 301 tariffs on top of the base rate.
How long does it take for customs clearance?
- Most entries with complete documents clear the same day, often within a few hours of filing. Air freight is commonly released in a few hours; ocean freight is typically pre-filed so CBP release is ready on arrival or the same day. A CBP exam can add 3–10 business days.
Where's Your Shipment Right Now?
Enter a master number (MAWB) or container number to pull up live CBP status.
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