About ROBERT LOUIS VAN VLEET
Robert Louis Van Vleet is a licensed U.S. customs broker based in Columbus, Indiana, operating under CBP filer code AX1. Affiliated with Foothill Brokerage, Van Vleet provides customs clearance and import compliance services to businesses in the Columbus area and throughout the Midwest. Indiana's position as a manufacturing and logistics hub means importers in the region frequently deal with machinery, automotive components, and industrial goods — all requiring precise tariff classification and entry preparation. Van Vleet can be reached directly by phone at (812) 988-6390 or by email at rvanvleet@foothillbrkg.com for consultations on customs matters and importer of record requirements.
Robert Louis Van Vleet is a CBP-licensed customs broker operating out of Columbus, Indiana, under filer code AX1 and affiliated with Foothill Brokerage. Columbus is a city with a strong industrial and manufacturing heritage — home to major engine and component manufacturers — making it a logical base for a broker serving importers who regularly bring in machinery, automotive parts, industrial equipment, and raw materials from overseas suppliers.
For businesses in central and southern Indiana, navigating U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements is a critical operational concern. Van Vleet assists importers with customs entry preparation, including understanding the distinctions between formal and informal entry thresholds, selecting the correct HTS code at the 10-digit level, and ensuring accurate Schedule B versus HTS code usage for both import and export documentation.
A key service area for any licensed customs broker is Importer Security Filing (ISF), sometimes called ISF 10+2 filing. This mandatory pre-shipment filing must be submitted to CBP at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded at a foreign port. Failure to comply can result in significant penalties, making timely and accurate ISF filing a top priority for ocean importers. Van Vleet helps clients meet these obligations without unnecessary exposure to fines.
Beyond entry filing, customs brokers affiliated with Foothill Brokerage typically assist with bond management — including both single entry bond customs arrangements for one-time shipments and continuous customs bond coverage for frequent importers. Understanding which bond type fits your import volume and risk profile is an important part of managing landed cost effectively.
Importers working with partner government agencies (PGAs) — such as the FDA, USDA, or EPA — face additional compliance layers beyond standard CBP requirements. Van Vleet can help coordinate multi-agency filings to avoid holds and delays at the port.
For qualifying importers, duty drawback programs represent a meaningful cost recovery opportunity. Whether you are exploring manufacturing drawback, unused merchandise drawback, or the Section 321 de minimis provision for lower-value shipments, understanding these programs can result in significant savings. Van Vleet is positioned to advise Indiana-based importers on whether their operations qualify and how to pursue these benefits effectively.
To discuss your import needs or learn more about customs broker services in Columbus, Indiana, contact Robert Louis Van Vleet at (812) 988-6390 or rvanvleet@foothillbrkg.com.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Robert Louis Van Vleet's CBP filer code?
Robert Louis Van Vleet's CBP-assigned filer code is AX1, used to identify entries filed on behalf of clients with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Does Robert Louis Van Vleet handle ISF filings for ocean shipments?
Yes. As a licensed customs broker affiliated with Foothill Brokerage, Van Vleet can assist importers with Importer Security Filing (ISF 10+2), which must be submitted at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded at the foreign port of origin.
Can Van Vleet help my company understand duty drawback opportunities?
Yes. Van Vleet can advise on duty drawback programs — including manufacturing drawback and unused merchandise drawback — to help importers recover duties paid on eligible goods that are subsequently exported or destroyed.