

Navigating global trade isn’t for the faint-hearted. Between changing regulations, fluctuating tariffs, and complex supply chains, there’s no room for guesswork. We at Pearl Lemon Consulting, bring clarity and actionable solutions to the world of international trade, helping businesses handle compliance, duty recovery, and market entry strategies with confidence.
What We Do and How It Solves Problems
We identify inefficiencies, resolve compliance issues, and reduce costs in international trade to ensure smooth, penalty-free operations for your business.




Trade Compliance Consulting
Compliance with global trade regulations isn’t optional; it’s essential. Missteps can result in hefty fines, shipment delays, and reputational damage. Our compliance services ensure you don’t end up in the penalty box.
- Export Documentation Assistance: Whether it’s navigating the complexities of ITAR, EAR, or country-specific export controls, we guide your business in completing accurate and compliant paperwork.
- Regulatory Monitoring: Stay ahead of policy changes that could impact your operations, such as Section 301 tariff updates or evolving WTO standards.
- HTS Classification: Properly classifying goods under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule saves money and eliminates legal risks.
Service in Action:
A mid-sized electronics importer saved 18% annually in tariff costs by correcting misclassified goods under HTS codes.
Customs Duty Recovery
Overpayment of customs duties is a hidden cost many businesses fail to address. We help identify these overpayments, recover funds, and prevent similar issues in the future.
- Duty Drawback Programs: Recover up to 99% of duties paid on imported goods that are later exported.
- Tariff Engineering: Adjust product configurations to take advantage of lower duty rates legally.
- Valuation Assistance: Ensure accurate customs valuations, avoiding overpayment while staying compliant.
Service in Action:
One client reclaimed over $250,000 in overpaid duties after a thorough audit of their past five years of imports.




Export and Import Advisory
Whether expanding into new markets or navigating intricate logistics, a clear approach is critical to avoid costly missteps.
- Incoterms Guidance: Avoid shipment disputes by understanding and applying the correct Incoterms in your contracts.
- Market Entry Planning: From licensing requirements to duty structures, we map the trade landscape for your target markets.
- Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Reduce duties and access better terms through agreements like USMCA or ASEAN.
Service in Action:
A manufacturer saved $300,000 annually on exports to Canada by leveraging USMCA benefits.
Supply Chain Consulting
International supply chains require a well-oiled machine to keep goods moving efficiently and cost-effectively.
- Logistics Process Audits: Identify bottlenecks, errors, or inefficiencies in your existing supply chain.
- Trade Security Programs: Protect your supply chain by aligning with standards like C-TPAT or AEO certifications.
- Warehouse Strategies: Optimize storage and inventory management to cut costs and increase fulfillment speed.
Service in Action:
A retail chain reduced fulfillment costs by 15% by redesigning their inventory and shipment planning.


Training and Capacity Building
Compliance and strategy aren’t just about policies; they’re about understanding. Our training equips your team with the tools and knowledge to handle the complexities of international trade.
- C-TPAT Certification Prep: Learn how to align your supply chain security with industry standards.
- Custom Workshops: Build in-house expertise on HTS classification, valuation methods, and export controls.
- Export Compliance Training: Ensure your team knows the ins and outs of ITAR/EAR regulations.
Service in Action:
Post-training, a client reduced compliance errors by 70%, avoiding potential fines and shipment delays.
How Our Services Work to Solve Problems
We tackle the specific pain points your business faces in international trade with targeted solutions that deliver measurable results.
Slashing Tariff Costs
A chemical importer struggled with rising tariff costs, threatening profitability. We conducted a detailed review of their import classifications and implemented tariff engineering strategies to reconfigure their product entries. The result? Annual savings of $400,000, improving their margins significantly.



Reducing Clearance Delays
An automotive parts distributor faced repeated shipment delays due to incomplete documentation. By implementing a documentation checklist and automating key export processes, their average clearance time dropped by 50%.
Recovering Overpaid Duties
A textile exporter was unaware they were eligible for duty refunds under a drawback program. Our audit identified and recovered $500,000 in overpaid duties over two years.
Key Metrics and Insights
- Reduced Costs: Clients save an average of 15–20% annually on duty expenses through accurate classification and tariff optimization.
- Improved Compliance Rates: Post-consultation, businesses report a 90% reduction in compliance-related errors.
- Faster Shipment Times: Streamlined processes cut average clearance delays by 40%.
- Higher Recovery Rates: Up to 99% of duties refunded for eligible drawback claims.


Frequently Asked Questions
Incorrect classification can lead to overpaid duties, fines, or shipment delays. Proper classification requires expertise in interpreting complex tariff schedules and rulings.
Duty drawback programs allow businesses to reclaim duties paid on imported goods that are later exported. This can include raw materials, packaging, or finished products.
Yes, we provide detailed insights into market-specific regulations, tariffs, and logistics to ensure smooth entry into new regions.
C-TPAT certification enhances supply chain security, reduces inspections, and speeds up customs clearance for certified partners.
Absolutely. We customize workshops to address the unique compliance and logistical challenges of industries such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and automotive.
The Results You’ll See
Trade is a world of complexities, but with the right approach, it becomes a well-managed operation. Let us show you how straightforward and effective international trade can be.