Pei Jen Lee

Pei Jen Lee is an independently licensed U.S. customs broker based in Walnut, California, holding CBP filer code N3Y. Walnut is situated in Los Angeles County's San Gabriel Valley, placing this broker within practical reach of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach — collectively the largest port complex in North America and the primary entry point for consumer goods, electronics, textiles, apparel, and machinery imported from China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and other Asian trading partners. Importers in Southern California seeking a customs broker near them will find Pei Jen Lee's location and direct contact availability well-suited to their needs.

Working with a licensed customs broker is essential for navigating US import requirements, which include accurate HTS code classification, proper valuation, and timely filing of CBP entry documentation. Pei Jen Lee can assist importers in determining the correct HTS codes for their merchandise — whether that involves a customs compliance audit of existing entries, guidance on the difference between formal vs informal entry customs thresholds, or understanding CBP entry types explained across a range of shipment values and modes of transport.

For ocean freight shipments, importers are required to submit an Importer Security Filing (ISF) at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded at the foreign port. Pei Jen Lee can manage ISF filing on behalf of importers to avoid CBP penalties. Additionally, importers bringing in lower-value shipments may benefit from understanding Section 321 de minimis rules, which allow duty-free entry for qualifying shipments under $800.

Customs bond requirements are another critical area for importers. A continuous customs bond is typically required for importers who make multiple entries per year and is a prerequisite for formal entry filing. Pei Jen Lee can advise importers on bond requirements and connect them with surety providers as needed.

For businesses exploring cost-recovery options, understanding the duty drawback program can yield significant refunds on duties paid for goods that are subsequently exported or destroyed. Similarly, importers with complex supply chains benefit from knowing the distinction between Schedule B vs HTS codes when preparing export documentation versus import entries.

With partner government agencies customs requirements growing more complex — spanning FDA, USDA, EPA, and other regulators depending on the commodity — having a knowledgeable licensed broker review your import program is a practical step for any active importer. Contact Pei Jen Lee directly at 626-362-5162 or PJLCHB@GMAIL.COM to discuss your specific import needs.