Glossary

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Customs TermsDefinitions
ISF Continuation BondA bond that extends ISF coverage for multiple shipments.
ISF No BondA type of ISF filing that doesn't require a bond.
ISF Importer NumberThe unique identification number assigned to an importer by CBP.
10+2 RuleThe original name for the ISF regulations, referring to the 10 data elements from the importer and 2 data elements from the carrier.
Bonded WarehouseA secure facility for storing imported goods while customs duties are unpaid.
CBP Form 3461The Entry/Immediate Delivery form used to request customs clearance.
Entry Type 86An entry type used for the ISF-only filing.
Continuous Bond RiderAn extension of the ISF bond to cover additional continuous customs bonds.
ISF Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII)An inspection of cargo by scanning or X-ray to ensure compliance with ISF data.
ISF Manufacturer (Supplier) Name and AddressInformation about the entity that manufactured or supplied the goods.
ISF Notify PartyThe party to be notified of any ISF discrepancies or issues.
Prohibited GoodsItems that are not allowed to be imported into a country.
Restricted GoodsItems that require special permits or meet certain conditions to be imported.
Valuation MethodsApproaches used to determine the customs value of goods, such as transaction value and deductive value.
Anti-Dumping DutyA tariff imposed on imports sold below fair market value.
Countervailing DutyA tariff imposed to offset subsidies provided to foreign producers.
DrawbackA refund of import duties for goods subsequently exported.
Informed ComplianceThe expectation that importers will understand and follow customs regulations.
CBP Form 3461The Entry/Immediate Delivery form used to declare goods to customs.
Entry TypeA code indicating the purpose of the customs entry, e.g., consumption, warehouse, or temporary.
Customs BondA financial guarantee to ensure compliance with customs regulations.
Country of Origin MarkingThe requirement to label products with their country of origin.
ISF Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII)An inspection of cargo by scanning or X-ray to verify ISF data.
ISF 5-Day RuleThe requirement to submit ISF data at least 5 days before the cargo is loaded.
ISF Bill of LadingInformation about the vessel and the voyage.
ISF Container Stuffing LocationThe place where the cargo was loaded into the container.
ISF ConsolidatorThe party responsible for submitting ISF data for consolidated shipments.
ISF House Bill of Lading (HBL)A document issued for consolidated shipments by a freight forwarder or NVOCC.
ISF Master Bill of Lading (MBL)A document issued by the carrier detailing cargo onboard.
ISF Shipment Reference NumberA unique reference for the ISF filing.
ISF Stow PlanDetails about the cargo's location and stowage on the vessel.
ISF Supplier's Reference NumberThe supplier's reference for the shipment.
ISF Vessel Voyage NumberIdentifies the specific vessel and voyage for the cargo.
Free Trade Agreement (FTA)An agreement reducing or eliminating import duties on certain goods.
Prohibited GoodsItems not allowed to be imported into a country.
Restricted GoodsItems requiring special permits or conditions for import.
Valuation MethodsApproaches to determine the customs value of goods, such as transaction value and deductive value.
Anti-Dumping DutyA tariff on imports sold below fair market value.
Countervailing DutyA tariff to offset subsidies provided to foreign producers.
DrawbackA refund of import duties for goods later exported.
Informed ComplianceImporters' understanding and adherence to customs regulations.
Country of Origin MarkingRequirement to label products with their country of origin.
Customs ExaminationPhysical inspection of goods by customs authorities.
Freight Forwarding AgentA representative of the freight forwarder responsible for coordinating shipments.
FCL (Full Container Load)Shipping goods in a dedicated container.
LCL (Less than Container Load)Shipping goods in a shared container with other shippers.
Freight RateThe cost of transporting goods based on factors like weight, volume, and distance.
Customs DocumentationThe paperwork required for customs clearance, including the commercial invoice and packing list.
DemurrageCharges for delays in returning containers to the shipping line.
DrayageTransport of goods over a short distance, typically from a port to a nearby warehouse.
Import LicenseA permit required for certain types of imported goods.
Import PermitAuthorization from relevant authorities for importing specific products.
Port of EntryThe location where goods enter a country for customs clearance.
Importer of RecordThe entity responsible for ensuring customs compliance for imported goods.
Freight ForwarderA company that arranges and manages the transportation of goods on behalf of importers and exporters.
Bill of Lading (B/L)A document issued by the carrier as evidence of receipt and contract of carriage.
NVOCC (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier)An entity that provides ocean transportation without owning vessels.
Ocean FreightThe cost of shipping goods via sea.
Air FreightThe cost of shipping goods via air.
Door-to-Door ServiceFreight forwarding services from the point of origin to the final destination.
Customs BrokerageServices to facilitate customs clearance and compliance.
Cargo InsuranceCoverage for potential loss or damage to goods during transportation.
IncotermsInternational rules defining responsibilities and costs for buyers and sellers in international trade.
ISF (Importer Security Filing)A mandatory electronic submission of import data to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) prior to vessel departure.
AMS (Automated Manifest System)A system that receives and processes ISF data for CBP.
Late ISF FilingSubmitting the ISF after the prescribed deadline, potentially resulting in penalties and delays.
Importer of RecordThe party responsible for ensuring ISF compliance and customs clearance.
Vessel Stow PlanInformation about the cargo's location and stowage on the vessel.
Container Status Messages (CSMs)Notifications that convey container movements and changes in status.
Master Bill of Lading (MBL)A document issued by the carrier detailing the cargo onboard.
House Bill of Lading (HBL)A document issued by a freight forwarder or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) for consolidated shipments.
ISF BondA financial guarantee to ensure compliance with ISF requirements.
Harmonized System (HS) CodeA standardized system for classifying goods for customs and trade purposes.
Dutiable ValueThe customs-assessed value of imported goods, used for calculating import duties.
Tariff ClassificationThe process of assigning the correct HS code to goods for customs purposes.
Import DutyTaxes imposed on imported goods by the customs authority.
Customs BrokerA licensed professional who assists in clearing goods through customs.
Certificate of OriginA document that verifies the country of origin of the goods.
Free Trade Agreement (FTA)An agreement between countries to reduce or eliminate import duties on certain goods.
Importer Security Filing (ISF)Required submission of import data to CBP before vessel departure.
Customs EntryThe formal declaration of imported goods to customs authorities.
10+2 RuleThe initial name for ISF requirements, including 10 data elements from the importer and 2 data elements from the carrier.
ISF Importer NumberA unique identifier assigned to importers for ISF compliance.
ISF BondA financial guarantee to cover ISF compliance obligations.
ISF Late FilingSubmitting the ISF after the deadline, leading to potential penalties.
ISF Continuation BondExtends ISF coverage to multiple shipments.
ISF Importer of RecordThe responsible party for ensuring ISF compliance.
ISF Notify PartyThe party to be notified of ISF discrepancies or issues.
Import DutyTaxes imposed on imported goods by customs authorities.
Customs BrokerA licensed professional who facilitates the customs clearance process.
Customs Entry Summary (CBP Form 3461)A form used to declare goods to customs.
Importer of RecordThe party responsible for customs clearance.
Certificate of OriginA document verifying the country of origin of the goods.
Customs BrokerA licensed professional who assists in customs clearance and ensures compliance with customs regulations.
Harmonized System (HS) CodeA standardized classification system used to identify and categorize goods for customs and trade purposes.
TariffA schedule of import duties and taxes imposed on various categories of goods.
Ad Valorem DutyA duty calculated as a percentage of the customs-assessed value of the imported goods.
Specific DutyA duty calculated based on a specific unit, such as weight, quantity, or volume, regardless of the value of the goods.
GSP (Generalized System of Preferences)A program that allows duty-free entry for certain goods from developing countries.
Anti-Dumping DutyA duty imposed on imported goods that are sold below their fair market value, harming domestic industries.
Countervailing DutyA duty imposed to offset subsidies provided to foreign producers, putting domestic producers at a disadvantage.
Customs BondA financial guarantee required by customs authorities to ensure compliance with customs regulations.
Importer of Record BondA specific type of customs bond that covers an importer's obligations to customs.
Continuous BondA customs bond that covers multiple importations over a specified period, often used by frequent importers.
Single-Entry BondA customs bond that covers a single importation.
PrincipalThe party (importer or entity) required to obtain a customs bond.
ObligeeThe party to whom the principal must provide the customs bond, typically customs authorities.
SuretyThe company or entity that issues the customs bond and guarantees the principal's compliance.
Bonded WarehouseA secure facility where goods can be stored without paying import duties until they are released for domestic consumption.
CBP Form 301The application form for a continuous bond, submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
PenaltyA punitive action or fine imposed by U.S. customs authorities for violations of import regulations.
Civil PenaltyA financial penalty levied for non-criminal violations of customs laws or regulations.
Criminal PenaltyLegal actions, including fines and imprisonment, for serious violations of customs laws or import regulations.
Monetary PenaltyA fine or financial sanction imposed on an importer for customs violations.
ForfeitureThe legal process of confiscating and taking ownership of goods due to import violations.
Bond ForfeitureThe loss of a customs bond due to non-compliance with import regulations.
SeizureThe action of confiscating and taking possession of goods by customs authorities due to violations.
Informed ComplianceA customs compliance approach in which importers are expected to understand and follow import regulations.
ISF Late Filing PenaltyFines imposed for submitting the Importer Security Filing (ISF) after the specified deadline.
In-Transit BondA customs bond used for goods temporarily entering a country without customs duties, typically for re-export.
Airport Security BondA customs bond required for goods arriving at an airport for customs clearance.
ISF BondA specific customs bond required to cover obligations related to the Importer Security Filing (ISF) program.
Bond RiderAn extension of an existing customs bond to cover additional obligations or time periods.
Bonded CarrierA transportation company authorized to transport goods in bond under customs supervision.
Entry Type 3 BondA specific customs bond for merchandise transported from the first point of arrival to the customs exam site.
T&E Bond (Transportation and Exportation Bond)A customs bond used for goods transported through the U.S. without being entered for customs purposes.
ACE Secure Data PortalThe online platform used to manage customs bonds and related documents.
Customs Bonded CartmanA bonded carrier specializing in the transport of goods under customs bond.
Duty Drawback BondA customs bond used to cover potential claims for duty drawback, a refund of import duties on goods subsequently exported.
Customs Broker BondA bond required for licensed customs brokers to ensure they comply with customs regulations.
Warehouse Entry BondA customs bond used when goods are placed in a bonded warehouse for an extended period.
Vessel Repair BondA bond for covering duties on imported vessel parts undergoing repair while in a U.S. port.
Entry BondA bond that allows imported goods to enter the commerce of the United States.
FROB Bond (Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) Removal of Goods Bond)A bond for the removal of goods from an FTZ without paying duties.
Aircraft Operator BondA bond required for operators of international flights to guarantee compliance with customs and immigration laws.
IR Bond (Immediate Delivery Bond)A bond used to obtain immediate release of goods upon arrival in a U.S. port.
Bonded Container Freight Station (CFS)A facility where goods in bond can be consolidated and deconsolidated.
Import SpecialistA customs agent who reviews customs bonds and ensures compliance with regulations.
IPR Bond (Intellectual Property Rights Bond)A bond used to protect against potential trademark or copyright violations.
Remote Location Filing BondA bond required when a customs entry is filed at a location other than the port of arrival.
Exemptions and ExclusionsSpecial conditions under which certain goods may be exempt from import duties or taxes.
Free Trade Agreement (FTA)An agreement between the U.S. and other countries to reduce or eliminate import duties on specified goods.
Country of Origin MarkingA requirement to label products with their country of origin for customs purposes.
Duty DrawbackA refund of import duties for goods subsequently exported or used in manufacturing.
Binding RulingA formal decision by customs authorities on the classification, valuation, or origin of goods for import purposes.
Transaction ValueThe customs value of goods based on the price paid or payable for the imported merchandise.
Valuation MethodsApproaches used to determine the customs value of goods, including transaction value, deductive value, computed value, etc.
Importer of RecordThe party responsible for ensuring customs compliance and payment of duties.
Valuation DatabaseA database maintained by customs authorities to assist in determining the customs value of imported goods.
Exemption ThresholdThe value below which goods may be exempt from import duties, such as the de minimis threshold for informal entries.
Bonded WarehouseA secure facility for storing imported goods without paying import duties until they are released for domestic consumption.
Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB)A customs procedure for temporarily importing goods for specific purposes without paying duties.
Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT)A voluntary program for importers and carriers aimed at enhancing supply chain security and customs compliance.
Estimated DutiesAn approximation of import duties owed, often required for bond purposes.
Duty RateThe percentage or fixed amount imposed on imported goods based on their classification and origin.
Drawback BondA bond used to cover potential claims for duty drawback, which is a refund of import duties on goods subsequently exported.
Estimated Entry SummaryA document submitted to customs authorities to estimate the import duties and fees owed for a shipment.
Valuation CertificateA document that provides detailed information about the value of the imported goods, often required for customs clearance.
Prohibited GoodsItems that are not allowed to be imported into the United States due to safety, health, or legal reasons.
False Entry PenaltyPenalties for providing false or inaccurate information in customs declarations.
Undervaluation PenaltyPenalties for intentionally undervaluing goods to reduce customs duties.
Smuggling PenaltySevere penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment, for illegal importation of goods.
False Claims Act ViolationCommitting fraud or making false statements in the customs context, resulting in legal actions.
Failure to Pay Import Duties PenaltyPenalties and interest charges for failing to pay required customs duties and taxes.
CDSOA Violation (Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act)Violating this law results in the forfeiture of anti-dumping and countervailing duties collected on imported goods.
Violations of FDA RegulationsBreaching regulations imposed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), leading to penalties and goods seizures.
Non-Compliance with Labeling RequirementsViolating requirements for product labeling, which can result in fines and corrective actions.
Failure to Comply with Anti-Dumping and Countervailing DutiesViolating duties imposed to counteract unfair trade practices, leading to additional penalties.
Import of Restricted or Prohibited GoodsImporting goods not permitted or subject to limitations, which can result in penalties and seizures.
Compliance Assessment PenaltyPenalties for failing to meet compliance assessments, such as Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) requirements.
Bond ViolationBreaching the terms of a customs bond, leading to penalties and potential bond forfeiture.
Violation of Free Trade AgreementsFailing to meet the rules of origin or other terms of free trade agreements, which can lead to duty assessments and penalties.
Trademark InfringementImporting counterfeit or unauthorized trademarked goods can result in penalties, seizures, and legal actions.
Violation of Export Control RegulationsBreaking export control laws can lead to penalties and restricted trading privileges.
Failure to Maintain Accurate RecordsPenalties for failing to maintain accurate records related to import transactions.
Country of Origin MisrepresentationProviding false information about the country of origin can result in penalties and loss of trade benefits.
Import Security ViolationsFailing to meet the security requirements can lead to penalties and potential cargo holds.
Customs Entry ViolationA breach in the process of formally declaring imported goods to customs authorities.
Forced Labor ViolationImporting goods produced with forced or child labor can result in penalties and bans.
Penalty MitigationThe process of reducing or negotiating penalties through various means, such as compliance improvements or settlements.
International TradeThe exchange of goods, services, and capital between countries.
ExportsGoods or services produced in one country and sold to foreign markets.
ImportsGoods or services bought from foreign markets and brought into a country.
Trade BalanceThe difference between a country's exports and imports, leading to a surplus or deficit.
Trade SurplusWhen a country exports more than it imports, resulting in a positive trade balance.
Trade DeficitWhen a country imports more than it exports, resulting in a negative trade balance.
Trade TariffsTaxes imposed on imports or exports to raise revenue or protect domestic industries.
Trade AgreementA formal agreement between countries to facilitate trade by reducing trade barriers.
Free Trade Agreement (FTA)An agreement that reduces or eliminates trade barriers between participating countries.
Customs DutiesTaxes or tariffs imposed on imported or exported goods by customs authorities.
Trade FacilitationEfforts to streamline and simplify international trade processes to reduce costs and delays.
Trade LiberalizationThe process of reducing trade barriers to promote free trade.
ProtectionismPolicies aimed at protecting domestic industries through trade barriers like tariffs and quotas.
World Trade Organization (WTO)An international organization that deals with global trade rules among nations.
DumpingSelling goods in foreign markets at prices below production costs or domestic market prices.
Countervailing DutiesTariffs imposed to counteract subsidies given to foreign producers.
Anti-Dumping DutiesTariffs imposed on imports sold at prices lower than fair market value.
QuotaA limit on the quantity of specific goods that can be imported or exported.
Rules of OriginCriteria used to determine the origin of goods for customs and trade purposes.
Customs BrokerA licensed professional who facilitates customs clearance for importers and exporters.
Bill of LadingA document that details the shipment of goods, their destination, and ownership.
Incoterms (International Commercial Terms)A set of standardized terms used in international trade contracts.
Currency Exchange RateThe value of one country's currency compared to another, affecting trade prices.
Balance of PaymentsA record of a country's economic transactions with the rest of the world.
Trade FinanceFinancial tools and services that support international trade, including letters of credit.
Export Credit Agency (ECA)Government or private organizations that provide export financing and insurance.
Trade DisputeA conflict between countries or trading partners regarding trade issues.
SanctionsRestrictions imposed on a country for political or economic reasons, affecting trade.
Market AccessThe ability to enter and participate in foreign markets.
Trade ComplianceAdherence to international trade laws and regulations.
Trade PromotionEfforts to encourage and support companies in entering foreign markets.
Import LicenseA government-issued permit allowing the importation of specific goods.
Safeguard MeasuresTemporary trade restrictions imposed to protect domestic industries.
Trade Agreement NegotiationThe process of reaching and formalizing trade agreements between countries.
Letter of CreditA financial instrument used to guarantee payment in international trade.
Trade Finance RiskRisks associated with international trade, including credit, currency, and political risks.
Economic SanctionsTrade restrictions imposed for political or security reasons, targeting specific countries or entities.
Export SubsidyGovernment support provided to domestic producers to enhance their competitiveness in foreign markets.
Export Credit InsuranceInsurance to protect exporters against non-payment by foreign buyers.
Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA)An agreement aimed at simplifying and expediting international trade procedures.
Market Access BarriersObstacles or restrictions that limit entry into foreign markets.
Trade BlocA group of countries that form a trading agreement, often reducing trade barriers within the bloc.
Trade Promotion Authority (TPA)Legislation that grants the President of the United States authority to negotiate trade agreements.
Market ResearchThe process of gathering information about foreign markets to make informed trade decisions.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)Investment in foreign businesses, often linked to international trade.
Trade RemedyLegal actions, such as anti-dumping measures, taken in response to unfair trade practices.
Ex-Works (EXW)An Incoterm indicating that the seller's responsibility ends when the goods are made available for pick-up at their premises.
Intrastate TradeTrade that occurs within the borders of a single country.
Customs ValuationThe process of determining the customs value of imported goods for
General ExaminationA routine inspection of goods to verify compliance with import regulations.
Intensive ExaminationA more thorough inspection of goods, often including a physical inspection.
Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII)Examination using scanning or X-ray technology to assess cargo without opening containers.
Physical InspectionA hands-on examination of the cargo, often conducted in a bonded warehouse.
Radiation Detection InspectionScanning for radioactive materials in cargo.
Agricultural InspectionExamination to prevent the introduction of harmful pests and diseases.
Environmental InspectionExamination of goods to ensure compliance with environmental protection regulations.
Quarantine InspectionInspection to prevent the spread of diseases, particularly in agricultural or animal products.
Customs Broker AuditAn audit of a customs broker's records and practices to ensure compliance.
ISF ExaminationVerification of the Importer Security Filing (ISF) data, including the stow plan.
ISF Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII)Inspection using scanning or X-ray technology for ISF compliance.
Container ExaminationInspection of the container itself to ensure it meets safety and compliance standards.
Bonded Warehouse ExaminationInspection of goods stored in a bonded warehouse to ensure compliance with regulations.
Anti-Dumping Duty ExaminationExamination of goods to assess if they are being sold below market value.
Countervailing Duty ExaminationExamination to determine if goods benefit from unfair subsidies.
Trade Enforcement ExaminationInspection to enforce trade laws and agreements.
Quality Control InspectionExamination of goods to verify they meet quality and safety standards.
Textile ExaminationInspection to ensure textiles meet textile labeling and fiber content requirements.
FDA InspectionExamination of food, drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics to ensure compliance with FDA regulations.
USDA InspectionInspection of agricultural products, meat, and poultry for compliance with USDA regulations.
Fish and Wildlife InspectionExamination to ensure compliance with regulations on endangered species and wildlife products.
Transportation Security InspectionExamination to verify security and compliance with transportation security regulations.
Phytosanitary InspectionExamination of plants and plant products to prevent the spread of plant pests and diseases.
Chemical Safety InspectionExamination of chemical imports to ensure safety and compliance with environmental regulations.
Narcotics InspectionExamination to prevent the illegal importation of narcotics and controlled substances.
Hazardous Materials InspectionExamination of goods that may pose a danger to health, safety, and the environment.
Firearms and Explosives InspectionExamination to prevent the illegal importation of firearms and explosives.
Customs Compliance ReviewAn overall review of customs compliance practices.
Security and Contraband InspectionExamination to prevent smuggling and the importation of illegal items.
Valuation Verification ExaminationInspection to verify the accuracy of the customs value declared for goods.
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