What do I need to file a US customs clearance entry?

What do I need to file a US customs clearance entry?

Customs Clearance Entry and Duties

A customs entry is a required official document for any commercial shipment entering the US.

Do I Need a Customs Broker?

Customs brokers are licensed through CBP to act as agents on behalf of importers. They may be independent or may also operate as a freight forwarder. Customs brokers assist importers in getting their freight into the US and lower the cost of duties and taxes. You don’t need to use a customs broker, but they can help significantly navigate the shipping process.

An customs entry form requires the following information:

  • Country of origin

  • Description of imported goods

  • Cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value

  • HS code

  • Expected duties

Different types of customs entries:

Formal entries apply to the import of commercial shipments valued at $2,500 or more.

Informal entries apply to the import of commercial or personal items valued at less than $2,500.

Section 321 or de minimis shipments contain parcel packages valued below the $800 customs threshold. These shipments are exempt from duties and taxes.

Additional requirements:

ISF (Imported Security Filing) on all ocean cargo coming into the US prior to cargo leaving origin.

AD/CVD, or Anti-Dumping & Countervailing Duties, apply to imported products that are considered to be unfairly subsidized or priced below fair market value.

If you are using a customs broker, you will need to sign a Power of Attorney in order for them to work on your behalf as an importer.

For formal entries and containerized ocean imports, importers must issue surety bonds against the duties owed:

A single-entry bond is taken out on each individual shipment. This can be time consuming if you are importing more frequently. In this case it is simpler to have a continuous bond.

An annual bond is automatically renewed and covers bonds on all shipments for a calendar year.

Required documents when importing goods into the US:

  • Shipping documentation (Bill of Lading)

  • Commercial invoice

  • Packing list

  • Arrival notice

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