ACBC Principles Maria Bermudez & Patricia Compres

Fresh produce and imports customs brokers experts Patricia Compres and Maria Bermudez have announced the launch of their new Miami, Florida-based firm, Advance Customs Brokers & Consulting (ACBC).

Former principles of Customized Brokers, which was acquired by Crowley in 2009, Compres and Bermudez have returned to their field of expertise and a combined forty-five years of experience, after fulfilling their contractual agreement with Crowley.

“We are truly excited to return to the industry we love,” Compres stated. “So many from the trade community have inquired as to when we would return to the business, so we are really looking forward to reconnecting and redeveloping programmes with them.”

ACBC specialises in fresh produce commodities, but also handles other products such as fish, as well as dry and frozen cargo.

'As changes in industry import regulations continue, the need for knowledge and guidance is very evident to Compres, who pointed out that governmental regulations and related issues, such as Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), Importer Self Assessment (ISA) and various other regulations, are a growing challenge for importers.

Compres stated that their years of experience and network of established professional contacts associated with the various affiliated organisations would be invaluable to those immersed in the business of importing fresh produce and other cargo into the US.

“We are looking forward to getting back into the swing of things. We really do have a passion for this business,” Compres said. “When you love what you do, it’s hard to imagine doing anything else.'