Today, we bring you critical insights from a global customs expert who's worked with DHL and the World Customs Organization. Learn how businesses can navigate complex trade regulations, avoid costly penalties, and strategically manage international shipping challenges. Greg Pilkington reveals insider strategies for compliance, tariff management, and global trade survival.

Contact Greg:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpilkington/

Main Points/Takeaways:

1. Customs Compliance Essentials

• Accurate goods description is critical
• HS code precision can mean the difference between 0% and 31% duty rates
• Country of origin declaration is mandatory at the line-item level

Key Quote: "If you don't know the country of origin, you're basically saying, 'I want to pay the highest rate I can.'" - Greg Pilkington

2. Tariff Strategy and Risk Management

• Small businesses most vulnerable to tariff changes (est. 5 million impacted)
• Tariff engineering requires:
  • Product master file tracking
  • Component-level origin tracking
  • Flexible sourcing strategies

Key Insight: Tariffs impact lower-cost goods more significantly than high-value items

3. Strategic Organizational Approach

• Customs is no longer a back-office function
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential
• Need for a chief compliance officer with customs expertise

Key Quote: "If your boardroom doesn't have at least a chief compliance officer familiar with customs brokerage, you're behind."

4. Global Trade Adaptation

• Globalization 1.0 is struggling
• Companies must be nimble and quick
• Sourcing patterns shifting (e.g., increased Asia-to-Asia trade)

Recommended Action: Conduct immediate audit of import/export operations to understand tariff implications

#InternationalBusiness #TradeCompliance #LogisticsTips

In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬

Recommended Resources:

Check out these courses we offer here at GTC! 👀🌎

📩Importing https://globaltrainingcenter.com/importing-procedures/

😵‍💫Tariff Classification https://globaltrainingcenter.com/tariff-classification/

🗺️Country of Origin https://globaltrainingcenter.com/country-of-origin/ 👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community! https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/

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Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

Credits:

Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/

Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/

Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/