Customs Brokers
O*NET 13-1041.08 · SOC 13-1041
Customs Broker is a solid career choice. Median pay is $81k a year with +3.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 32,700 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Classify imported goods using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule codes.
- →Prepare and file customs entry documents for imported shipments.
- →Calculate duties, taxes, and fees owed on imported merchandise.
- →Communicate with U.S. Customs and Border Protection on client shipments.
- →Advise importers on trade regulations and documentation requirements.
Education & How to Get In
Most Customs Broker positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Customs Broker involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Customs Broker?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Customs Broker Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Customs Brokers is projected to grow 3.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·58% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·31% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Customs Broker make?
The median Customs Broker earns $81k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Customs Broker jobs?
Our model puts Customs Broker at 52 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 58% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 31% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace.
Is Customs Broker a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 32,700 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Customs Broker?
Most Customs Broker roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Customs Broker?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Customs Broker career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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