not a courier - this is importing, as in via a container ship. Not regular post or courier that still comes under basic importing laws..

Its over $1000, and bigger than a tea chest - part container. B/L, import declarations, invoices and contracts etc are mandatory. Its a food product with my own labelling, own packaging etc.

No disrespect meant at all, but to be honest Ive had a lot of people tell me its really difficult, get into trouble etc, all by people who havent actually done it, and the entire process is actually very simple.  Its literally laid out step by step on government websites, and customs actually helps (literally has a free service) first time importers of this nature (I havent needed it yet). No one needs an expert, unless they are importing something unusual or illegal (like weapons, animal products?) in large quantities (?). Its really not complicated.

I think I exaggerated my lack of knowledge in my first post a little lol ...

The only things I dont know are literally the questions in my post.  All I really wanted to know is do i call them or do they call me (Ive heard people do both), and does the import dec need to be lodged prior or on the day, and why would a customers broker be on the DL when I dont need one/ didnt ask for one (maybe its normal?).

It was late at night when I wrote that post and figured someone must know.. its ok Ill give them a call 🙂

Many thanks