Recent increases in inspection rates by US customs have led to stringent checks on import violations, significantly delaying logistics and causing prolonged detentions of up to a month for some shipments.
In today’s tutorial, we have compiled expert knowledge on US customs clearance, offering insights for navigating customs efficiently and safely.
Methods of customs clearance in the USA
1. Clearance under the name of the U.S. consignee
The U.S. consignee provides a POA to their freight forwarder’s U.S. agent and a necessary customs bond.
2. Clearance under the name of the Chinese shipper
The Chinese shipper provides a POA to the freight forwarder at the port of departure, who then coordinates with the U.S. agent to handle U.S. customs registration, also requiring a customs bond purchase.
Due to the complex nature of the customs bond process, shippers are advised to arrange this well in advance to avoid clearance failures. For more information about customs bonds, click here.
US customs clearance process
1. Declaration
Upon receiving goods, the customs broker prepares necessary documents and declares them to customs, either electronically via the Automated Commercial System (ACS) or through paper filings.
2. Inspection
Customs checks the completeness and accuracy of the importer’s documents before deciding to release or inspect the goods.
3. Release
Once cleared by customs, the consignee can arrange transport from the port.
Essential documents preparations
1. Cargo Manifest:Includes details such as product name, quantity, unit price, total price, origin, transportation mode, and destination.
2. Power of Attorney:Requires accurate company information, tax ID, and address.
3. Import Security Filing (ISF): Importers must declare ten import details to customs 24 hours before loading, and the shipping company must submit additional information 24 hours before the ship reaches the destination port.
4. Country of Origin Marking:Goods must prominently display the country of origin in English.
5. AMS (Automated Manifest System):Declare all goods shipped to the United States to customs 24 hours before loading.
For more related documents you should prepare for US customs clearance, check out this article.
Challenges you should know
Transporting sensitive items like flammable, explosive, or perishable goods can be challenging due to strict inspections.
Shippers need thorough documentation beforehand, including manifests, safety certs, and permits.
In addition, customs will scrutinize high-value items more closely, so detailed value proofs are vital.
Misdeclaration, like under-declaring or false declaration, invites scrutiny and clearance delays. Always declare goods accurately regarding quantity, value, and composition.
The Rise in inspection rates at US customs
Recent increases in customs inspections are driven by concerns over intellectual property rights, particularly in apparel, cosmetics, and counterfeit goods.
Peak season demands, from March to May and September to December, also lead to heightened inspections to ensure compliance and market stability.
Generally, U.S. Customs focuses inspections on products related to infants and children, such as toys, pigments, crayons, and carpets, as well as high-value goods, including footwear, electronics, and automotive products. This stringent scrutiny underscores the heightened attention to child safety and high-value item regulations.
Strategies for seamless customs clearance
Compliance certifications
Before exporting, ensure that products meet the regulations and standards of the target market, such as the US FDA and FCC certifications.
Accurate declaration
It is crucial to fill out all customs documents correctly, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. Inaccuracies or omissions in documentation can lead to suspicions and inspections.
Proper packaging
Use appropriate packaging materials and methods to protect goods during transit. Well-planned and organized packaging can reduce the likelihood of inspections.Choose a reliable freight forwarder
Selecting a trustworthy logistics channel is vital in international trade, enhancing control and certainty while reducing operational costs and risks.
Airsupply, with ten years of experience, understands the intricacies of customs regulations and trade policies, providing precise and efficient logistics services to clients.
Our professional team can swiftly assist clients in correcting product classifications and optimizing declared values to ensure safe and compliant declarations.
A robust logistics network and advanced digital systems enable real-time monitoring of the transportation status, ensuring that goods arrive safely and on time at their destination.
