Customs Entry Clerk Onboarding Checklist

Customs Entry Clerk Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Customs Entry Clerk starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Logistics onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Customs Entry Clerk, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Customs Entry Clerk onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Customs Entry Clerk Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The customs entry clerk should receive a comprehensive overview of the company’s policies and procedures, including those related to customs clearance, documentation, and compliance. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

2. Familiarization with customs regulations: The customs entry clerk should undergo training to understand the specific customs regulations and requirements applicable to the industry and the countries they will be working with. This training is usually conducted by a senior customs entry clerk or a customs compliance manager.

3. Software and systems training: The customs entry clerk needs to be trained on the company’s customs software and systems used for processing customs entries, tracking shipments, and generating necessary documentation. This training is typically provided by the IT department or a designated software trainer.

4. Understanding import and export documentation: The customs entry clerk should receive training on the various import and export documents required for customs clearance, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and certificates of origin. This training is usually conducted by a senior customs entry clerk or a documentation specialist.

5. Learning customs entry processes: The customs entry clerk should be trained on the step-by-step process of preparing and submitting customs entries, including classification, valuation, and duty calculations. This training is typically provided by a senior customs entry clerk or a customs compliance manager.

6. Familiarization with customs tariffs and duty rates: The customs entry clerk should be educated on the customs tariffs and duty rates applicable to different types of goods and countries. This knowledge is crucial for accurate duty calculations and compliance. A customs compliance manager or a senior customs entry clerk usually provides this training.

7. Understanding customs compliance and audits: The customs entry clerk should receive training on customs compliance requirements, including record-keeping, reporting, and audit procedures. This training is typically conducted by a customs compliance manager or a designated compliance officer.

8. Building relationships with customs authorities: The customs entry clerk should be introduced to key contacts within customs authorities, such as customs officers or brokers, to establish a professional relationship and facilitate smooth customs clearance processes. This task is usually performed by a customs compliance manager or a senior customs entry clerk.

9. Shadowing experienced customs entry clerks: The new customs entry clerk should have the opportunity to shadow experienced colleagues to observe and learn from their day-to-day tasks, problem-solving techniques, and best practices. This task is typically organized by a customs compliance manager or a senior customs entry clerk.

10. Continuous professional development: The customs entry clerk should be encouraged to participate in relevant training programs, workshops, or industry conferences to stay updated on changes in customs regulations, procedures, and best practices. The responsibility for identifying and facilitating such opportunities usually lies with the human resources department or a customs compliance manager

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Customs Entry Clerk checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Customs Entry Clerk up to speed and working well in your Logistics team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.