Resident Agent vs. Customs Broker vs. Registered Agent
A resident agent under 19 CFR 141.18 accepts service of process for a nonresident corporation that imports in that port state. A customs broker, licensed under 19 CFR 111, prepares and files entries, classifies and values goods and handles duties. A state registered agent accepts legal papers for a company registered to do business in that state. You may need all three.
Resident agent (us)
- Accept service of process, scan the same day, forward within 1 business day with translation
- Never files entries, classifies, values or pays duties
Customs broker
- Licensed; performs "customs business" (19 CFR 111.1)
Registered agent
- Required only if your company registers to do business in a state
Related: FDA renewal deadline calendar · Do I need a U.S. Agent? · US Agent Desk pricing
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Last reviewed October 21, 2026.