Many freight forwarders can be customs brokers as well (or have access to brokerage services), but not every customs broker is a freight forwarder. Customs brokers focus on the import side of an international transaction. For exporters, the customs broker is a foreign country conversation.
Do I need a customs agent to import?
There is no legal requirement for you to hire a Customs Broker to clear your goods. However, many importers opt to do so for the convenience. Customs Brokers are licensed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to conduct CBP business on behalf of importers.