Customs Brokerage

Are you confident your imports are entering the United States quickly and efficiently? We’re here to make sure you’re the master of your imported goods. Of course we have licensed Customs Brokers available to answer any question you may have, but we also want to be a source of information for you so you can research on your own. Here are the top questions we receive from new importers and the basic information you need when getting started with a Customs Broker.

Four Documents You Need To Clear Imports Into The United States

Man pointing to documents
Customs Brokers can address your concerns, point out the proper documents and file it in an efficient manner.

What documents do I need to get started?

The customs clearance process for imports can be confusing for anyone. Customs Brokers can address your concerns and help you prepare and file the proper paperwork in an efficient manner. Proper document preparation can save you a monumental amount of time and aggravation. To get started, you need

The customs clearance process for imports can be confusing for anyone. Customs Brokers can address your concerns and help you prepare and file the proper paperwork in an efficient manner. Proper document preparation can save you a monumental amount of time and aggravation. To get started, you need

The customs clearance process for imports can be confusing for anyone. Customs Brokers can address your concerns and help you prepare and file the proper paperwork in an efficient manner. Proper document preparation can save you a monumental amount of time and aggravation. To get started, you need

The customs clearance process for imports can be confusing for anyone. Customs Brokers can address your concerns and help you prepare and file the proper paperwork in an efficient manner. Proper document preparation can save you a monumental amount of time and aggravation. To get started, you need four documents to clear imports into the United States. You can learn more about them from our blog and download them from our website.

Changes To The Importer Security Filing

What are these changes to the Importer Security Filing I keep hearing about?

The Importer Security Filing (ISF) is going through numerous updates and pending changes. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has even implemented a revised enforcement strategy to track violations of goods. There’s also no more grace period. Learn more about

The Importer Security Filing (ISF) is going through numerous updates and pending changes. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has even implemented a revised enforcement strategy to track violations of goods. There’s also no more grace period. Learn more about changes to the importer security filing and how to avoid harsher CBP penalties.

Clearing FDA Imports And Overview

How difficult is it to import goods regulated by the Food and Drug Administration?

All imports of FDA-regulated goods must adhere to the same requirements as domestic manufactured goods. Importers generally choose to employ licensed customs brokers when offering the goods for entry. All shipments of FDA-regulated goods are examined by the CBP and FDA. Goods can be refused entry to the U.S. if they don’t meet certain requirements, so read more about

All imports of FDA-regulated goods must adhere to the same requirements as domestic manufactured goods. Importers generally choose to employ licensed customs brokers when offering the goods for entry. All shipments of FDA-regulated goods are examined by the CBP and FDA. Goods can be refused entry to the U.S. if they don’t meet certain requirements, so read more about clearing FDA import hurdles here and make sure you know what’s required.

The Why And When Of Customs Bonds

Government Regulations and Policies compliance dial
Customs bonds are a type of financial guarantee

What is a customs bond and why do I need one?

Customs bonds are a type of financial guarantee insurance involving three parties: The CBP, the principal (person filing for the bond) and the insurance/surety company issuing the customs bond.

Customs bonds are a type of financial guarantee insurance involving three parties: The CBP, the principal (person filing for the bond) and the insurance/surety company issuing the customs bond.

You need a customs bond when importing goods into the U.S. for marketable use valued more than $2,500, or if your goods are subject to additional federal agency requirements. Do you need a recap of the types of customs bonds? We have everything you need to know about the why and when of customs bonds in our blog post here.

 ACE Transition Deadline Approaching

I keep hearing that we have to use the new Automated Commercial Environment system, but I don’t understand it. Explain.

The March 31 deadline for the transition to the new Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system will be here before you know it. ACE replaces the CBP system and has reorganized their processes. We have everything you need to know about the ACE Transition deadline approaching so it won’t slow the process for you.

How To Navigate The FDA Entry Process

I understand that the FDA regulates imports the same way it regulates domestic goods. But what about the entry process? Where do I start?

Knowing the ins and outs of the FDA’s data entry process is critical at a time when U.S. imports continue to increase steadily, by 10- to 15-percent per year for the last 10 years. Entries are submitted to the CBP first, which inspects and hands over approved entries to the FDA for its review. Goods to the U.S. will be delayed or even refused if specific information and documentation isn’t provided. We have a guide for you here on how to navigate the FDA entry process.

Let Customs Brokers Help

Customs Broker and an importer shaking hands
Getting started with a Customs Broker is the best way to ensure your documents are filled out correctly.

The customs clearance process can be confusing to anyone new to importing. Working with a Customs Broker is the best way to ensure your documents are correct, you are adhering to the rules and that your goods will pass through the CBP and FDA with no issues.

AFC International will oversee the entire import entry level process and make sure you stay compliant. Call us at 800-274-2329 today to get started!

AFC INTERNATIONAL: CUSTOM BROKERAGE SUPPORT