Sheltered International LLC

Sheltered International LLC is a federally licensed U.S. customs broker and freight forwarder headquartered in Amelia Island, Florida — just north of Jacksonville near JAXPORT, one of the Southeast's most active deepwater ports. The firm operates under CBP filer code 9AY and was founded in 2015 by Andrew Ciccarone with a clear mission: bring modern technology to an industry that had long resisted it.

Ciccarone's background gives Sheltered International a practical edge. After managing an East Coast branch for an established customs brokerage and freight forwarder fresh out of college, he recognized that importers were underserved by outdated processes and opaque communication. SiShips — the company's proprietary logistics platform — addresses this directly, offering clients full shipment visibility from initial quote through final delivery, across ocean, air, rail, and truck modes.

For importers, Sheltered International handles the full range of customs compliance work. This includes customs entry preparation, Importer Security Filing (ISF 10+2), and classification support — helping importers navigate the difference between a Schedule B and HTS code, or identify the correct 10-digit HTS code for their goods. The firm also assists with import bond requirements, including both single entry bonds and continuous customs bonds, ensuring importers of record meet CBP's financial security obligations.

Given Florida's geographic position and trade corridors, Sheltered International serves importers bringing goods from the Caribbean, Latin America, and global ocean freight lanes through the Port of Jacksonville. The region's import mix commonly includes consumer goods, machinery, food and beverage products, and general merchandise — all areas where accurate customs classification and timely ISF filing are critical to avoiding delays and penalties.

The firm's technology-first model also positions it well for emerging customs programs. Importers interested in Section 321 de minimis entries, Type 86 entry filings for e-commerce shipments, or duty drawback programs — including unused merchandise drawback and manufacturing drawback — can consult with Sheltered International's licensed brokers on eligibility and filing strategy.

For importers searching for a customs broker near Jacksonville or along Florida's northeast coast, Sheltered International LLC offers a modern alternative to traditional brokerage — combining CBP licensing, freight forwarding capabilities, and a digital platform designed to reduce friction at every step of the import process. Contact the team at micheller@siships.com or +1-904-604-0000.