Most importers only see two moments in the import journey: when a shipment leaves the supplier and when it arrives at their warehouse.

Everything in between feels like a black box.

But in 2025, that “black box” is where most risks actually live. With the end of the De Minimis era, increased enforcement, and new digital data requirements, understanding the true lifecycle of a U.S. import is no longer optional. Every missed detail, incorrect HS code, or vague invoice can trigger delays, penalties, or audits.

Here’s what really happens behind the scenes at U.S. Customs, and why importers need structured, scalable compliance to keep products moving.

It All Starts With Data — Long Before the Cargo Arrives

Infographic showing key data elements required by CBP before cargo arrival, including commercial invoice details, HS codes, country of origin, valuation, PGA information, importer of record details, and ACE entry data.

Key import data elements—commercial invoices, HS codes, origin, valuation, PGA documents, IOR details, and ACE entry data—must be sent to CBP before cargo arrives to prevent delays and holds.

The lifecycle of an import begins before your freight is picked up.

Brokers, carriers, and forwarders must submit key data sets to CBP in advance, including:

In the post–De Minimis environment, importers can no longer rely on couriers to correct or cover documentation errors. If you’re still adjusting your operations, see From Section 321 to Formal Entry.

Why this stage matters:
If any data is wrong, mismatched, or incomplete, CBP can flag the shipment before it even reaches the border.

Automated Risk Targeting & Digital Screening

Once your data hits the CBP system, it moves into one of the most powerful parts of modern customs enforcement: automated risk targeting.

CBP uses algorithms and advanced analytics to check for:

This is where most CBP holds begin — not at the border, but inside the risk-scoring system.

The DOJ/DHS Trade Fraud Task Force uses these same datasets to initiate audits.

Learn more here: DOJ/DHS Trade Fraud Task Force: Import Audits Explained

Manifest Review & Match Against Entry Data

CBP then cross-references:

Any mismatch — even minor — can trigger:

Example:
If the invoice says “homeware accessories” but the HS code corresponds to “steel kitchenware,” the system flags the discrepancy instantly.

Poor supplier documentation is the #1 reason for mismatches, especially for brands scaling volume. Consider updating templates using Clearit USA’s Quick Start Guide.

Partner Government Agency (PGA) Clearance

Products may require clearance from agencies such as:

If the PGA data is wrong or missing:

This stage affects importers shifting from DTC parcel shipping to full-scale importing, where PGA rules now fully apply. Many products that previously moved under Section 321 now require full PGA compliance.

Physical Inspection (When Ordered)

Only a small portion of shipments undergo physical inspection, but the probability increases if:

Inspection methods include:

Inspections can still occur even if your shipments previously moved through couriers. That’s why more brands are moving to structured import models with bulk freight and clear documentation, as described in IEEPA + USMCA refund planning.

Duty Assessment & Valuation Review

At this point, CBP evaluates whether the declared value is correct.

This is where many importers get into trouble — especially those sourcing from Asia or using middlemen.

CBP regularly challenges values when:

This is also where the First Sale Rule becomes extremely valuable for compliant importers: First Sale Rule Explained: How to Lower Declared Value Legally

Release — Or Hold, Detain, or Request for Information

Based on all prior steps, the shipment moves into one of the following statuses:

Released – Everything matched
Released with documents pending – Post-release corrections needed
Hold – Waiting for documents or explanations
Detention – Cargo under review
Examination – Physical inspection required
Request for Information (CBP Form 28) – More documentation required
Notice of Action (CBP Form 29) – CBP intends to adjust your entry
Seizure – For serious compliance issues

This stage determines whether your supply chain runs smoothly or grinds to a halt.

For many importers, scaling means increasing scrutiny, which is why it helps to understand how CBP uses data, risk scoring, and audit triggers.

Post-Release Monitoring & Audit Exposure

Even after release, CBP continues monitoring:

Post-release reviews can trigger:

Importers with inconsistent documentation face the highest risk, especially under the DOJ/DHS task force.

Why Understanding the Import Lifecycle Matters More in 2025

The end of De Minimis has exposed weaknesses in many import processes:

Importers who scale without understanding the lifecycle of an import face:

Now more than ever, success requires visibility into each step of the customs process, not blind reliance on carriers or automated systems.

Final Thoughts: Transparency Is Your New Competitive Advantage

Understanding what happens behind the scenes at U.S. Customs gives you the ability to:

2025 is the year U.S. importers must shift from reactive to proactive compliance.
If you’re scaling beyond courier parcel importing, start by reviewing your operational workflow using Clearit USA’s Quick Start Guide to Stress-Free Importing.

The more you understand the lifecycle of an import, the more control you have over your supply chain.

FAQs

1. What part of the import lifecycle causes the most delays?

Data mismatches during automated risk review — especially HS code or valuation inconsistencies.

2. Do small shipments get less scrutiny?

Not anymore. Every shipment now requires full documentation.

3. Can couriers still handle compliance?

No. They no longer act as compliance shields in the post–De Minimis era.

4. When does CBP decide to inspect a shipment?

When data anomalies, supplier risks, or valuation concerns are detected.

5. How long does CBP keep monitoring entries after release?

Up to 5 years is the length of the recordkeeping requirement.

The United States is one of the largest import markets globally. From electronics to apparel, billions of dollars’ worth of goods enter the country each month. However, with opportunity comes complexity. Every product has its own customs requirements, regulations, and challenges that importers need to manage.

In this article, we look at ten of the most commonly imported product categories and the customs issues businesses should watch out for.

1. Electronics

Items like smartphones, tablets, and computers are at the top of the import charts. While demand is steady, electronics come with their own set of customs concerns.

Key Challenges:

Refer to our guide on Key Documents for Importing Goods into the U.S. to ensure your shipment paperwork is complete.

2. Apparel and Textiles

Clothing, fabrics, and fashion accessories are major imports but come with strict labeling and tariff rules.

Key Challenges:

Our guide on Importing Textiles and Apparel into the U.S. covers these regulations in depth.

3. Machinery and Industrial Equipment

Construction equipment, engines, and tools are imported for business and infrastructure use.

Key Challenges:

Working with a licensed customs broker can streamline the process and minimize errors.

4. Vehicles and Auto Parts

From tires to electric scooters, this category is heavily regulated.

Key Challenges:

See our analysis on U.S. Tariff Changes and Their Impact for updated duty information.

5. Furniture and Home Goods

Home décor, lighting, and furnishings are consistently in demand.

Key Challenges:

6. Footwear

Footwear is a popular but tricky import category due to its varied material types and designs.

Key Challenges:

7. Toys and Games

With strict safety standards, toys are a high-risk import category.

Key Challenges:

8. Beauty and Personal Care Products

Products like cosmetics, skincare, and fragrances are popular imports that fall under FDA scrutiny.

Key Challenges:

9. Pet Products and Supplies

The U.S. pet market is booming, especially through eCommerce. Imports range from pet beds and carriers to food and grooming products.

Key challenges:

10. Sporting Goods

This includes gear, equipment, and accessories for a wide range of sports and outdoor activities.

Key Challenges:

Conclusion

Importing goods into the U.S. comes with exciting opportunities, but also unique challenges. By understanding your product’s classification, documentation, and compliance requirements, you’ll avoid delays, penalties, and confusion at the border.

If you want help navigating customs, partner with a broker who understands the industry inside and out.

Let Clearit USA Handle the Complexity

Whether you’re importing toys, textiles, electronics, or home goods, Clearit USA is here to help. 

Contact us today to get a quote.

In today’s fast-paced world, every delay in your supply chain can affect your business’s bottom line. Getting your products from the supplier to your warehouse on time is crucial. Yet, customs delays at the U.S. border often stand in the way.

Understanding and overcoming these hurdles is key to keeping your operations running smoothly. This article shares practical strategies for streamlining your supply chain and reducing customs bottlenecks.

Understanding Customs Bottlenecks

Customs delays may occur for several reasons. Some of the common causes include:

Incomplete or Inaccurate Paperwork

Even minor errors in invoices, packing lists, or certificates of origin can hold up shipments. For detailed guidance on the essential documents you need, check out our post on Key Documents for Importing Goods into the USA.

Inspections and Compliance Checks

Random or targeted inspections may delay clearance, especially if documents are not in order.

Frequent Regulatory Changes

New policies or updated trade agreements can affect clearance times without much warning. To learn more about how evolving trade rules impact your operations, explore our articles on US Trade Policy Impact on Customs Brokerage and US Import Tariff Changes Impact Customs Brokers and Importers.

Communication Gaps

A lack of clear, timely communication among suppliers, carriers, and customs can lead to misunderstandings and delays.

By understanding these potential challenges, you can start building a more resilient and efficient supply chain.

Key Strategies to Optimize Your Supply Chain

Improving your supply chain means looking at every detail—from when a product leaves the supplier to when it finally lands in your warehouse. Here are some practical steps to consider:

Plan Ahead

Start every process with a solid plan. Detailed planning helps you anticipate and manage delays.

Enhance Documentation

Accurate documentation is the backbone of a smooth customs process.

Optimize Transportation

Your choice of carrier and shipping methods plays a significant role in avoiding delays.

Leverage Technology

Technology can turn a complex process into a streamlined operation.

Improve Communication

Clear and constant communication is essential in every part of your supply chain.

Best Practices for Long-Term Success

Implementing the above strategies is a great start, but maintaining a smooth supply chain requires ongoing effort. Consider these best practices:

Conduct Regular Audits

Periodically review your supply chain processes. Identify weak spots and make adjustments as needed.

Invest in Team Training

Keep your staff up-to-date on best practices in documentation and customs procedures. A well-informed team is less likely to make errors.

Build Strong Relationships

Develop trust with your suppliers and carriers. Good relationships lead to smoother operations and quicker problem resolution.

Plan for the Unexpected

Have backup plans in place for when things go wrong. Being prepared can make all the difference, whether it is a sudden regulatory change or an unexpected shipment delay.

A resilient supply chain isn’t built overnight. Continuous monitoring, adaptation, and improvement are necessary to avoid potential issues.

The Benefits of a Streamlined Supply Chain

When your supply chain is running efficiently, the benefits extend across your business:

Even minor planning and communication improvements can lead to significant gains over time.

Conclusion

Streamlining your supply chain from supplier to warehouse is a continuous process that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a willingness to adapt. By focusing on better documentation, reliable transportation, innovative use of technology, and clear communication, you can significantly reduce customs bottlenecks.

Sometimes, even the best-laid plans can hit a snag. It might be time to get expert help if your internal strategies stop working. Professionals who specialize in customs clearance can offer tailored advice to optimize your documentation, communication, and shipping strategies. Their expertise can save you time and money.

Ready to improve your supply chain? Contact a trusted customs broker today to ensure your shipments move swiftly through customs.

Impact on US Imports and Accessibility Challenges

The closure of the Port of Baltimore due to the Key Bridge collapse presents significant challenges for US imports, particularly those destined for the East Coast. As one of the largest ro-ro ports in the United States, Baltimore handles a substantial portion of imports, with approximately 70% of its volume dedicated to inbound cargo. This closure disrupts the usual flow of goods into the region, affecting businesses and consumers reliant on timely imports.

With the port’s container terminals rendered inaccessible by the bridge collapse, importers face a critical logistical hurdle. The inability to unload incoming shipments directly at the Port of Baltimore disrupts supply chain continuity and complicates inventory management for businesses across various sectors.

Impact on Importers:

  1. Delayed Deliveries: Importers reliant on goods arriving through the Port of Baltimore are likely to experience delays in receiving their shipments. The rerouting of vessels to alternative ports, combined with potential congestion and increased transit times, prolongs the delivery process.
  2. Inventory Management Challenges: The unpredictability of delivery times and potential congestion at alternate ports pose challenges for importers in managing their inventory effectively. The inability to access goods as planned may disrupt production schedules and impact sales forecasts.
  3. Increased Costs: Rerouting cargo to alternative ports involves additional transportation expenses, such as trucking or rail fees. Importers may also face higher freight rates due to increased demand for transportation services and potential congestion-related surcharges.
  4. Supply Chain Disruptions: The disruption in the flow of imports can ripple through supply chains, affecting downstream operations and customer satisfaction. Industries reliant on just-in-time inventory systems or perishable goods may face heightened challenges in maintaining operations.

Addressing Accessibility Challenges:

To mitigate the impact of the Port of Baltimore’s inaccessibility, importers may explore alternative transportation routes and modes. This could involve diverting shipments to nearby ports with available infrastructure or leveraging intermodal transportation solutions, such as rail and trucking, to transport goods to their final destinations.

Additionally, close collaboration and communication with logistics partners and carriers are essential for devising contingency plans and adapting to evolving circumstances. Importers may need to reassess their supply chain strategies and prioritize flexibility to navigate the challenges posed by the temporary closure of the Port of Baltimore effectively.

Importing car parts into the USA involves several steps and adherence to regulations set by various federal agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Transportation (DOT), and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). 

Here’s an overview of the process and when specific forms such as the EPA and HS-7 forms are required.

Determine Applicability of Regulations

For commercial importers, it’s important to understand which federal regulations apply based on the type of parts (e.g., engine components, safety equipment) and their intended use.

Some exemptions may apply if you’re importing automotive parts for personal use, but it’s crucial to verify which regulations affect the import of your car parts.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Requirements

The EPA regulates the import of any vehicle or engine to ensure it meets U.S. emissions standards as set by the Clean Air Act.

The EPA Form 3520-1 is required for all vehicles and engines entering the United States. This includes both complete vehicles and engines intended for road use.

If you’re importing parts that include engines (for example, a replacement engine), the EPA’s regulations apply. You must prove that the engine meets EPA emissions standards, which often requires certification or proof of equivalence to U.S. models.

When importing engines from Canada, for example, while many Canadian vehicles are certified to the same standards as U.S. vehicles, importers must still be able to prove that the vehicle or engine meets emission standards by submitting a letter of compliance or verifying the presence of a vehicle emissions label stating that it is certified to EPA emission standards.

Certain parts not directly affecting emissions may not require EPA documentation, but it’s essential to check the latest EPA guidelines.

Department of Transportation (DOT) Requirements

The DOT oversees the safety standards for vehicles and their components.

The HS-7 form is required for the import of vehicles and equipment subject to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). If you’re importing car parts that affect the vehicle’s safety features (such as breaking systems, lighting, and tires), you’ll likely need to submit an HS-7 form at customs.

Some automotive parts may be exempt from DOT regulations, such as components not directly related to safety or unregulated parts for older vehicles not originally manufactured to meet FMVSS.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Requirements

All imports must clear U.S. Customs. You’ll need to provide the necessary documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and the EPA and DOT forms when applicable.

The HTS groups automotive part imports into six broad product categories: 

Be prepared to pay any applicable customs duties and taxes based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification of your parts.

Other Considerations

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Ensure the parts you’re importing do not infringe on any U.S. patents, trademarks, or copyrights. This involves conducting thorough due diligence to verify the authenticity and legality of the automotive parts before importing them.

State Regulations: Some states may have additional certification requirements or emissions standards beyond federal regulations. For example, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulates vehicle emissions and requires certain aftermarket automotive parts to be certified under the California Vehicle Code (CVC). New York, Massachusetts, Texas, and Washington are other examples of states that have their own emissions testing programs and regulations.

Tips for Successful Import

Research and compliance: Thoroughly research all applicable regulations and ensure full compliance to avoid delays or penalties. Stay up to date on changes to relevant import regulations, tariffs, and trade policies.

Classify products correctly: Determine the correct HTS code to ensure accurate assessment of duties and taxes.

Prepare accurate documentation: Ensure that all import documentation, including invoices, bills of lading, and certificates of origin, is complete and accurate, and be prepared to provide additional documentation if requested by customs.

Budget for duties and taxes: Calculate the estimated duties, taxes, and fees associated with importing, and budget accordingly to avoid unexpected costs and delays in customs clearance.

Plan logistics and shipping: Choose reliable shipping methods and consider factors such as transit times, reliability, and insurance coverage.

Consult with experts: Consider consulting with a customs broker like Clearit or a legal expert specializing in import regulations for personalized advice and assistance.

This overview provides a basic framework, but regulations can change, and specific situations may require additional steps or documentation. Always refer to the latest guidelines from the EPA, DOT, and CBP for the most accurate and detailed information.

In today’s interconnected global marketplace, businesses who need to navigate their goods through customs must be aware of ever-changing customs regulations, trade policies, and compliance requirements to optimize efficiency and mitigate risks.

To help businesses thrive, we’ve curated 10 expert tips from seasoned trade professionals. From active engagement in industry networks to meticulous documentation review and proactive discrepancy resolution, these strategies offer actionable insights to enhance customs compliance and streamline trade operations.

1. Active Engagement in Industry Organizations

Joining customs and trade organizations and actively participating in events is a great way to network and stay updated on regulatory changes and industry trends. These organizations often host seminars, workshops, and networking events where professionals can exchange insights, share best practices, and gain firsthand knowledge of emerging issues. 

2. Regular Information Review

If you want to stay informed about evolving customs regulations and trade policies, it’s essential that you set aside the time to regularly review news releases, official updates, and publications from government agencies and industry news sources. Subscribing to newsletters and regularly visiting websites will provide a steady stream of timely information. 

3. Thorough Documentation Review

It’s crucial to meticulously scrutinize all documentation related to your shipment to ensure compliance with customs regulations. Each document, including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, shipping documentation, and the final customs declaration form must be reviewed for accuracy, consistency, and completeness. Implementing a robust documentation review can streamline the verification process and minimize the risk of compliance issues.

4. Proactive Discrepancy Resolution

If you do discover discrepancies in any of your customs documents, including details about the buyer and seller, the origin of the goods, their value, the currency of the sale, and commodity codes, make sure to resolve these inconsistencies promptly to prevent delays in the goods clearing customs. Resolving the discrepancies may involve cross-referencing information across multiple documents, verifying data accuracy with suppliers or shippers, and taking the necessary corrective actions. 

5. Prioritize Compliance Training

Investing in ongoing training and/or education programs for staff members is fundamental to maintaining a high level of customs compliance expertise within an organization. Training sessions can cover topics including tariff classification, valuation methods, import/export regulations, and customs clearance procedures.

By equipping employees with up-to-date knowledge and skills, businesses are empowering them to identify compliance issues, navigate regulatory complexities, and proactively address potential risks. Regular training sessions, supplemented by relevant resources and case studies, foster a culture of compliance and continuous improvement.

6. Ensure Tariff Classification Accuracy

Accurate tariff classification is paramount for determining the correct customs duties, taxes, and regulatory requirements applicable to imported goods. It involves assigning the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code based on the product’s characteristics, composition, and intended use. Achieving precise tariff classification requires a deep understanding of the HS code structure, product specifications, and relevant customs regulations.

Businesses should invest in training programs, reference materials, and classification tools to ensure consistent and accurate classification of goods, thereby minimizing the risk of customs compliance errors.

7. Optimize Valuation Methods

Businesses may be able to save on shipment duties by exploring different valuation methods, such as transaction value, transaction value of identical goods, or computed value, to determine the most advantageous approach for their shipments. This involves carefully considering various factors, including the declared value of imported goods, currency exchange rates, and applicable customs valuation rules.

Additionally, leveraging programs and rules provided by importing countries, such as the “first sale rule,” can help minimize declared value and reduce customs duties legally.

8. Maximize Duty and Tax Minimization Strategies

Collaborating with customs brokers and trade experts can help businesses implement effective strategies for minimizing taxes. By leveraging available programs, exemptions, and preferential trade agreements, businesses can optimize tax savings while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

Examples of duty minimization strategies include utilizing free trade agreements, duty drawback programs, bonded warehousing facilities, and customs duty deferral schemes.

9. Prepare Thoroughly for Audits and Inspections

Businesses should maintain organized records of all relevant documents, including commercial invoices, packing lists, shipping documents, and customs declarations. By centralizing document storage and ensuring accessibility, businesses can streamline the audit process and facilitate prompt responses to audit requests.

Additionally, fostering clear communication channels with customs authorities and proactively addressing any potential issues or discrepancies can help expedite audit procedures and mitigate compliance risks. By adopting a proactive approach to audit preparation, businesses can instill confidence in their customs compliance practices and uphold the integrity of their trade operations.

10. Utilize Expertise of Customs Brokers

Customs brokers have specialized knowledge and experience that can help a business navigate complex customs regulations and procedures. Customs brokers serve as trusted intermediaries between businesses and government authorities, offering invaluable guidance on classification, valuation, documentation requirements, and compliance best practices.

By engaging a reputable customs brokerage firm like Clearit, businesses gain access to a wealth of expertise, personalized support, and tailored solutions to optimize their customs clearance processes and mitigate compliance risks.

By implementing these expert tips, businesses can enhance their customs compliance efforts, streamline trade processes, and optimize efficiency in trade. With a proactive approach, strategic planning, and collaboration with customs brokers and industry stakeholders, businesses can navigate the complexities of customs regulations with confidence.

Ready to streamline your customs clearance process and ensure hassle-free imports? Take the first step towards efficient logistics management today by initiating your customs clearance journey with us. Let’s get your imports moving smoothly – click here to start now. 

 

The information provided in this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, business, or financial advice. Clearit makes no guarantees, representations, or warranties regarding the accuracy or reliability of the contents of this article, as they are based on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions, which may be subject to change. We cannot guarantee the occurrence or absence of various anticipated or unanticipated events that may impact the information presented. Neither Clearit nor its advisors or affiliates shall be held liable for any losses incurred as a result of relying on the information contained in this article.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is running a test to allow for the payment of certain commercial vessel taxes and fees with electronic methods, including credit cards. Payment can be made through the existing Mobile Collections & Receipts (MCR) system’s payment portal at eCBP or at the port of entry for any commercial vessel arriving at a maritime port of entry.

The test will begin no earlier than Jan. 16, 2024 and will continue for two years.

Participation in the test is voluntary, and CBP will continue to accept payments by cash or check at the ports of entry.

This test marks the start of Phase Two of the MCR Pilot. Phase One was announced in 2017, and allowed for certain commercial vessel taxes and fees to be paid electronically through the MCR system.

Specifically, the 2017 MCR Pilot permitted online payment and electronic receipts for the following taxes and fees:

The 2017 MCR Pilot was limited to commercial vessels arriving at one of four designated ports of entry: Los Angeles-Long Beach, California; New Orleans, Louisiana; Gulfport, Mississippi; and Mobile, Alabama.

In Phase Two of the MCR test, CBP will test the feasibility of accepting electronic payment options for five categories of commercial vessel taxes, allowing vessel owners, operators, and agents to take full advantage of the MCR system.

According to CBP, using the MCR system will result in a reduction in the number of mistakes in the calculation of taxes and fees due because the MCR system can implement any changes to the fee calculations quickly and efficiently for all ports. Additionally, the MCR system eliminates the need for CBP employees to manually enter information into CBP’s systems or to perform other tasks necessary to maintain the security or inventory of the paper versions of CBP Forms 368 and 1002, which means they can spend less time on administrative tasks and more time focusing on higher priority mission support activities.

Like Phase One, payment through electronic methods will be voluntary and CBP will continue to accept cash or check payments consistent with current requirements and practice. The collection of payments under Phase Two will operate largely the same as in the initial 2017 MCR Pilot, except that Phase Two will allow for electronic payments for vessels arriving at any maritime port of entry (as opposed to the four ports of entry designated in the 2017 MCR Pilot) and will include online payments and using an EMV card reader at the port.

Comments concerning this notice and all aspects of the test may be submitted at any time during the test.

For more info, view the full Notice at the Federal Registry.

To stay informed on trade news and other important updates, stay connected with a customs broker.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will begin collecting import fees on pecans and Christmas trees on Nov. 5 after the issue that had been preventing the fee updates in ACE CERT has been resolved.

The impacted tariffs are as follows:

Pecans

Handlers will collect assessments from producers based on pounds of pecans received and importers will pay assessments on pecans when they enter the United States.

Importers who import less than 50,000 pounds of inshell pecans, 25,000 pounds of shelled pecans, or a combination of the two, on average for four fiscal periods will be exempt from paying assessments and can apply for the exemption through the American Pecan Promotion Board.

Christmas trees

The fee for Christmas trees is $0.15 per tree regardless of the variety.

Importers who import less than 500 trees in a fiscal period can claim an exemption from paying the fee by filing an application for a certificate of exemption from the Real Christmas Tree Board.

To stay informed on trade news and other important updates, stay connected with a customs broker.

Taking no chances with what appears to be increasingly likely a federal government shutdown starting Oct. 1, the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) is leading an effort among 40 other trade associations to develop a comprehensive strategy with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) to ensure that legitimate trade is permitted to efficiently enter and exit US ports during a shutdown.

Specifically, the trade community requests:

  1. Private Sector Communication with the CBP “War Room” — The establishment and staffing of a CBP War Room that will work with the private-sector trade community to establish a direct line of communication for the private sector to inform the War Room in real-time on issues that must be resolved in a timely fashion to keep trade moving throughout any shutdown.
  2. PGA presence in the CBP War Room — PGA staff should be fully integrated into the CBP War Room, especially those agencies with hold authority, including FDA, USDA, FWS, EPA, and CPSC, that must clear goods before they can enter the stream of commerce, along with the TSA due to its important border security responsibilities. As well, continuing to provide technical support to ensure ACE is operating normally during any potential shutdown.
  3. CBP HQ, ports, and Centers must coordinate — During prior shutdowns, the private-sector trade community experienced breakdowns in communication between CBP HQ, the local ports, and the Centers (formerly CEEs), which caused needless inefficiencies in moving trade. To prevent this from happening again, CBP should pre-plan coordination with the Centers and the local ports.
  4. CBP daily briefings with the private sector — In past lapses of government funding, CBP did an incredible service to the trade by holding daily briefings. CBP should restart this best practice, so that any issues can be swiftly identified and resolved. PGAs with hold authority should attend these daily briefings in order to ensure that all parties are working together in a coordinated manner to keep trade moving.
  5. Trade must flow both ways — The trade community emphasizes that trade must continue moving in both directions for the duration of any lapse in government funding. Export operations and related processes, including licenses, inspections, impractical to screen cargo, and the like, must be able to flow inbound as well as outbound across the borders during a shutdown.
  6. All tangential trade functions must be considered essential — All Tangential Trade Functions Must be Considered Essential — The government is urged to consider tangential trade functions when deciding which employees are exempt. Examples include the issuance of steel and aluminum licenses via the Department of Commerce, EPA inspection sites, all PGA staff who conduct document reviews or technical staff to resolve automation issues, UFLPA focused-employees who review and release detained shipments, personnel who process paper checks at the ports, personnel who conduct inspections for self-propelled used vehicle exports, and USDA certificate personnel for U.S. exports. These should be deemed essential so that trade can continue to move.

“While we remain hopeful that a government shutdown can still be avoided, the current political environment in Washington is making us take a cautious approach,” said NCBFAA President Jose D. “JD” Gonzalez. “That is why it’s imperative for us to take action with CBP and the PGAs now in order that we can work with these agencies to keep our nation’s trade moving efficiently and securely.”

NCBFAA has already developed a special Government Shutdown webpage on its NCBFAA.org website in which timely informational updates related to trade from CBP and the PGAs for customs broker, freight forwarder and NVOCC members and their customers will be available.

“NCBFAA will keep its members informed with real-time information about what they need to know in order to perform their day-to-day business activities during the shutdown,” said NCBFAA Executive Vice President Megan Montgomery. “It’s all-hands-on-deck in our association.”

Who is the NCBFAA?

Established in 1897, the NCBFAA represents more than 1,200-member companies in international trade -the nation’s leading freight forwarders, customs brokers, ocean transportation intermediaries (OTIs), NVOCCs and air cargo agents, serving more than 250,000 importers and exporters. Through its various committees, counsel and representatives, the Association maintains a close watch over legislative and regulatory issues that affect its members.

To stay informed on trade news and other important updates, stay connected with a customs broker.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is proposing to significantly increase the fees for its AQI program, which assures that cargo and passenger baggage entering the country is inspected for plant pests and potential sources of animal diseases that could affect U.S. agriculture, trade and commerce.

Fees for the AQI program were last updated in 2015 based on data from 2010 through 2012, making the fee structure almost a decade out of date. According to APHIS, the outdated fee structure, combined with recent changes in international travel and shipping, means that current fees do not generate enough revenue to cover the costs of the AQI services provided.

To develop the proposed rule, APHIS conducted a comprehensive review of the AQI program to determine the actual costs incurred by APHIS and CBP (who administer the program jointly) to deliver AQI services.

The updated cost model accounts for inflation, capital improvements, and additional staffing needs. For example, for 2017 through 2019, the AQI program ran an average annual deficit of over $166 million. From 2010 to 2021, agricultural cargo imports grew over 61% by volume, and AQI staffing dedicated to conveyance and cargo clearance was not able keep pace with this growth. Workload per frontline employee increased 25% by volume from 2010 to 2021.

At the same time, changes in the size of conveyances (ships, trains, trucks) and the amounts they transport have resulted in more work being done with less funding because APHIS fees are tied to the number of conveyance arrivals, not the volume of cargo contained within them.

Proposed fee changes

Fee Service Activity Current  Proposed
January 1, 2024 October 1, 2024 October 1, 2025 October 1, 2026 October 1, 2027
Commercial Vessel (per vessel arrival) $825 $3,219.29 $3,302.23 $3,386.23 $3,471.18 $3,557.18
Commercial Truck (per truck arrival)2 $7.29 $11.40 $12.40 $13.45 $14.50 $15.55
Commercial Rail (per railroad car arrival) $2.00 $5.81 $6.51 $7.23 $7.97 $8.72
Commercial Aircraft (per aircraft arrival) $225.00 $288.41 $309.00 $330.07 $351.64 $373.68
Air Passenger (per passenger arrival) $3.83 $4.29 $4.44 $4.60 $4.76 $4.93
Cruise Vessel Passenger (per passenger arrival) $1.68 $1.20 $1.25 $1.29 $1.34 $1.39
Treatments (per hour) $237 (per treatment) $232.97 $253.19 $273.90 $295.12 $316.83

 You can leave your feedback on the proposal by Oct. 10, 2023 by visiting www.regulations.gov.

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