Customs Brokers Would Get More Flexibility to Share Client Info under CBP Proposal

(World Trade Interactive)

Customs brokers would have more flexibility to share client information with other entities under a new proposal from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

This proposed rule would allow brokers, with written consent from the client, to share client information with affiliated entities related to the broker so that they may offer non-customs business services to the broker’s clients. Brokers would also be allowed to use a third-party service provider to perform photocopying and scanning of client records, provided that the service provider enters into a non-disclosure agreement requiring it to keep confidential the contents and information contained in any records pertaining to the broker’s client.

Finally, brokers would be able to use a third-party messenger service for transporting and/or delivering client documents on the broker’s behalf if those documents are sealed so that the messenger cannot view, alter or amend them.

CBP states that these proposed changes are intended to codify its previously published rulings and to update its regulations to reflect modern business practices while protecting the confidentiality of client (importer) information. Comments on this proposal are due no later than Dec. 27.