ROBERT M KENNARD

Robert M Kennard holds an active CBP customs broker license and operates out of Doral, Florida, under filer code MQ8. Doral sits at the center of South Florida's international trade ecosystem, adjacent to Miami International Airport and within close range of PortMiami — two of the most active U.S. ports of entry for goods moving between North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Brokers based in this region routinely handle a high volume of consumer goods, perishables, textiles, and commercial cargo arriving from Central and South America.

As a licensed customs broker, Kennard is authorized to act as importer of record on behalf of U.S.-based businesses and foreign entities importing goods through CBP-regulated ports. This includes preparing and filing formal and informal customs entries, navigating the distinction between formal vs informal entry customs thresholds, and advising clients on the correct 10-digit HTS code classification for their merchandise. Accurate HTS code assignment is critical — it determines duty rates, admissibility, and compliance with partner government agency (PGA) requirements from agencies like the FDA, USDA, and EPA.

For shipments requiring advance cargo information, Robert M Kennard can assist with ISF 10+2 filing — the Importer Security Filing required by CBP for ocean freight at least 24 hours prior to vessel loading. Errors or late ISF filings can result in costly penalties, making experienced broker support essential for ocean importers.

Clients may also benefit from guidance on customs bond options. A continuous customs bond covers all entries filed within a 12-month period and is typically cost-effective for frequent importers, while a single entry bond customs option suits one-time or infrequent shipments. Kennard can help determine the appropriate bond type based on import volume and entry frequency.

Additionally, importers with qualifying goods may be eligible for duty recovery through drawback programs — including manufacturing drawback customs claims and unused merchandise drawback — allowing businesses to recoup duties paid on imported goods that are later exported or destroyed. For low-value shipments, understanding Section 321 de minimis rules can also reduce duty exposure on eligible consignments.

Doral's position as a South Florida trade hub means importers dealing with Latin American suppliers, Caribbean freight lanes, or Miami-routed air cargo have a locally knowledgeable resource available. Businesses looking for a licensed customs broker near Miami with CBP authorization and regional expertise are encouraged to contact Robert M Kennard at the phone number listed.