About WHL CUSTOMS BROKER SERVICE, INC.
WHL Customs Broker Service, Inc. is a CBP-licensed customs brokerage (Filer Code: BLJ) based in Gardena, California, serving importers who move goods through the Los Angeles and Long Beach port complex — among the busiest cargo gateways in the United States. Located in the South Bay area, WHL is well-positioned to assist importers with customs entry preparation, tariff classification, and regulatory compliance for goods arriving from Asia and the Pacific Rim. Whether you are a first-time importer navigating CBP requirements or an established company managing high-volume commercial entries, WHL Customs Broker Service offers licensed expertise to help you clear goods accurately and in compliance with U.S. customs law.
WHL Customs Broker Service, Inc. operates out of Gardena, California, a city strategically situated between the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach — the primary entry point for a massive share of U.S. imports, particularly from Asia. With CBP Filer Code BLJ, WHL is authorized to file commercial entries on behalf of importers across a wide range of commodity types, including electronics, consumer goods, textiles and apparel, and machinery.
For importers shipping through LA/Long Beach, timely and accurate customs clearance is critical. Delays at port can result in storage fees, cargo holds, and supply chain disruptions. WHL Customs Broker Service works to ensure that import documentation — including CBP Form 3461 (Entry/Immediate Delivery), commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading — is properly prepared and submitted ahead of vessel arrival.
Importer Security Filing (ISF), commonly known as the 10+2 filing, must be submitted at least 72 hours before a shipment departs its foreign port. WHL assists clients with ISF filings to help avoid CBP penalties and cargo exams. For importers carrying ongoing shipment volumes, WHL can also advise on continuous customs bond coverage, which simplifies the bonding process compared to single-entry bonds.
HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code classification is a foundational element of every customs entry. Correct tariff codes determine the applicable duty rates, admissibility requirements, and potential trade remedies — including Section 301 tariffs on goods of Chinese origin. WHL's familiarity with the HTS and commodity-specific classifications for electronics, apparel, and other goods common to LA/Long Beach imports helps importers avoid costly misclassification.
Importers concerned about overpaid duties may also benefit from exploring duty drawback programs. Under 19 U.S.C. § 1313, qualifying importers may recover up to 99% of duties paid on goods that are subsequently exported or destroyed. WHL can discuss whether a duty drawback refund strategy is appropriate based on your import and export patterns.
For businesses new to importing, WHL offers the kind of hands-on guidance that first-time importers need to understand commercial entry requirements, CBP compliance expectations, and how to work within the Section 321 de minimis threshold for low-value shipments. Experienced importers, meanwhile, can rely on WHL's licensed knowledge to navigate focused assessment inquiries and prior disclosure considerations should compliance issues arise.
Reachable by phone at 310-670-8339, WHL Customs Broker Service, Inc. is a locally based option for South Bay and greater Los Angeles importers seeking a customs broker close to the port.
Specialties
Services
Ports Served
Frequently Asked Questions
What ports does WHL Customs Broker Service primarily serve?
WHL is located in Gardena, CA, placing it directly between the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. These are among the largest container ports in the U.S. and the primary gateway for Asia-origin imports, making WHL well-suited to handle clearances at both facilities.
Can WHL help with ISF filing for ocean shipments?
Yes. Importer Security Filing (ISF) is required for all ocean cargo entering the U.S. and must be submitted at least 72 hours before the shipment departs its foreign port. WHL Customs Broker Service can prepare and submit ISF filings on behalf of importers to help avoid CBP penalties and cargo examinations.
Does WHL Customs Broker Service assist first-time importers?
WHL can guide new importers through the commercial entry process, including obtaining a customs bond, understanding HTS classification, and meeting CBP documentation requirements. Call 310-670-8339 to discuss your specific import situation.
What is WHL's CBP filer code?
WHL Customs Broker Service, Inc. operates under CBP Filer Code BLJ, which is used to identify the broker when filing entries with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.