Custom Brokerage Secure & Reliable

As North America’s largest independently owned and operated customs broker, Nippy provides comprehensive logistics and customs brokerage services at key entry points along the North American borders.

Our specialists expedite critical customs clearances for you, with our offices staffed by licensed customs brokers, with 40% of our operational staff having an industry designation (CCS, PFF). With operations that comprise an extensive network of affiliates which provide compliant clearance solutions, you can ship your goods with peace of mind.

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Custom Brokerage FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the shipping rates so volatile?

  • The primary is market demand.  Traditionally from Dec through April for imports, especially from Asia to the U.S., it is called the “slow season.” Because the retail market slows down after Christmas.  However from mid January through early February there is an upsurge of cargo moving to beat the Chinese New Year deadline whereby factories all over China shut down for weeks.  This usually keeps rates high as there is always space problems for cargo getting on vessels.  From May through November this would be the “peak season” where there is a big demand for cargo moving into the U.S., so the Carriers raise the rates during this period, with the GRI (general rate increase), and PSS (peak season surcharge).
  • Another factor is fuel, or what is called the Bunker Fuel factor.  This is a floating surcharge that the Carrier’s can change when oil prices rise or fall. It is called the BAF.

What are the usual methods of freight payment?

Most freight payments are done with a Company check. But here at Nippy Shipping we also accept Bitcoin payment. However you can also pay with wire transfer or credit card (subject to administrative fee). Payment is sent right around the time the freight is due to arrive, clear customs and be released.

Do you handle international household moves?

At Nippy Shipping, we understand how stressful household goods moving can be; having all your cherished personal effects packed up and shipped off to cross the ocean in a plane or aboard a ship. As part of our commitment to helping you ensure your employees have a smooth transition to their new homes, we provide services whose quality and level of personalization no other company can match

How and where can we pick up the cargo at destination?

You simply go to the warehouse (in the case of Nippy Shipping) or the port (for containers) where your goods are and pick them up. If you are picking up Nippy Shipping Freight, the warehouse may charge you $25-50 for a dock fee which is often only payable in cash, so bring cash with you just in case.

How long will it take for my cargo to clear through Customs?

The time taken to clear goods is dependent on certain information provided to Customs on the import declaration. Upon arrival into the UK, for example, UK Customs (HMRC) will assign a ‘route’ to the entry. Below is a list of the most common routes, and the approximate time it takes for clearance to be issued.

Route 1 – This is a full documentation check whereby customs require sight of original paperwork for a detailed check of the declaration, this can take up to three working hours to clear. The time starts when customs receive your paperwork.

Route 2 – This is a customs examination as well as document check. Customs require original paperwork before they request the container be presented and out-turned for examination. There is no time limit allocated to this routing as customs rely on the port service providers to present the container.

Route 3 – This route sees clearance being given within approximately 10 minutes. Customs still require us to present original paperwork within 24 hours. Although this type of clearance can be issued within 10 minutes we request customers allow one hour for clearance to be issued.

Route 6 – Instant clearance pending funds being in place for Duty and VAT. Usually clearance is issued within 10 minutes of the declaration being accepted. Customs do not require presentation of any documentation.

Who are customs and what is their role?

A The role of Customs is extremely varied, ranging from checking of documents for accuracy to physical examination of cargo and preventative controls to check on the movement of drugs etc.
Their remit includes:

  • Controlling the movement of imports and exports.
  • Collecting revenue from traders on imported goods.
  • Protecting society from prohibited or explicit materials.
  • Acting on behalf of other government departments with import/export trade.
  • Undertaking law enforcement where necessary.

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What duty will i have to pay?

The rate of duty applicable will be dependent on the commodity code of the goods you wish to import and the country of origin. All this information can be found using the following LINK:
http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/taric/taric_consultation.jsp?Lang=en.

I can't what i'm looking for on this website. Pleases who else can i contact?

If you’re unable to find the information you require, simply call your local Nippy Shipping office and ask for the department that’s most relevant to your enquiry (reefer, breakbulk, transport, etc.). Or you can simply chat with the online support.