About KPMG LLP
KPMG LLP holds a CBP customs broker license (filer code E5S) and operates a dedicated Trade and Customs practice out of Chicago, IL. The firm provides customs and trade compliance advisory services to multinational corporations and importers across a wide range of industries. Services span HTS code classification, duty drawback claims, import/export compliance program development, customs audits, and regulatory training. KPMG's trade practice is staffed by professionals with deep knowledge of CBP regulations, the ACE portal, and harmonized tariff schedule requirements. As part of one of the world's largest professional services networks, KPMG brings substantial resources to complex cross-border trade matters. Note that certain services may not be available to KPMG audit clients due to independence considerations.
KPMG LLP is a globally recognized professional services firm that maintains a licensed U.S. customs broker credential (filer code E5S) through its Trade and Customs practice, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Unlike traditional freight-forwarding customs brokers, KPMG's trade team functions as a strategic advisory practice, serving importers who face complex regulatory, classification, and compliance challenges across international supply chains.
The firm's Chicago-based Trade and Customs group advises clients on a broad range of import and export matters. This includes HTS code classification under the harmonized tariff schedule, assisting companies in conducting accurate hts code lookups to determine correct duty rates and avoid costly misclassification penalties. KPMG professionals regularly work within the CBP ACE portal to manage filings and monitor compliance standing for corporate importers.
A significant focus of KPMG's trade practice is duty drawback — helping companies identify and file duty drawback claims to recover duties paid on imported goods that are subsequently exported or destroyed. The duty drawback program represents a meaningful cost-recovery opportunity for manufacturers and distributors, and KPMG's specialists guide clients through the documentation and filing requirements to maximize recoveries.
KPMG also advises on Importer Security Filing (ISF) requirements, ensuring that clients meet the 24-hour advance filing rule and understand ISF filing requirements to avoid CBP penalties. The team assists with Section 321 de minimis eligibility analysis, tariff classification disputes before the USITC, and the development of internal trade compliance programs designed to withstand CBP audits.
With offices across major U.S. trade hubs — including Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Houston, and Dallas — KPMG's Trade and Customs practice is well-positioned to serve importers operating across multiple ports of entry. The Chicago office, reachable at 312-665-1022, serves as a hub for Midwest-based corporations managing cross-border supply chains.
Importers evaluating KPMG for customs brokerage and trade advisory services should note that due to professional independence standards, certain services may not be available to existing KPMG audit clients. Companies seeking classification assistance, duty drawback recovery, customs audit defense, or trade compliance program development will find KPMG's credentialed team a capable resource for high-complexity engagements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does KPMG LLP act as a traditional customs broker for routine import filings?
KPMG holds a CBP customs broker license (E5S), but its Trade and Customs practice primarily focuses on advisory services — such as HTS classification, duty drawback claims, and compliance program development — rather than routine transaction-based entry filings handled by freight forwarders.
Can KPMG help my company file a duty drawback claim?
Yes. Duty drawback recovery is a core service of KPMG's Trade and Customs team. They assist importers in identifying eligible drawback opportunities, preparing claims, and navigating CBP's requirements under the duty drawback program to recover duties on exported or destroyed goods.