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Importing Basics
Almost all goods whether duty-free or dutiable,
and regardless of value, must enter the United States through a port of
entry. When the shipment arrives, the “importer of record” (e.g., the owner,
purchaser or licensed custom broker) must file entry documents for the goods
with the “port director.” These documents are required to secure the release
of the merchandise from Customs. In addition the documents will contain
information that will allow Customs to determine the amount of duty
assessment.
The importer of record has 15 days from the date that the shipment arrives
at the port of entry to file the entry documents. These documents must
include: (1) an Entry/Immediate Delivery Form (CF7533) or an Entry Manifest
(CF3461), (2) evidence of the right to make entry, (3) a commercial invoice,
(4) a packing list, if appropriate, and, any other documents necessary to
determine merchandise admissibility. The entry documents must be accompanied
by evidence that a bond or a deposit has been posted with Customs to cover
any potential duties, taxes and charges that may accrue. If the documents
are not filed in a timely manner, the goods will be placed in a
general-order warehouse at the importer’s risk and expense. When Customs
receives the documents it will either release the goods or examine and
inspect them.
There are many types of goods that are subject to license or permit before
they may be allowed into the United States. These goods generally include
food and medicinal drugs. The United States also has foreign control
restrictions that limit the import of goods from certain countries such s
Cuba, Iran and Libya.
The liability for all duties and fees rests on the importer. If not properly
remitted when due a lien may be placed on the goods. Paying a Custom Broker
does not relieve the importer of its liability for Customs charges therefore
all importers should give their brokers checks that are directly payable to
the U. S. Customs Service.
Some classes of goods may be admitted into the United States under bond,
without the payment of duty, if they are to be exported from the United
States within one year of importation (these are called “temporary free
importations”.
Here are few sites that offer more detailed information.
www.fita.com offers a valuable free
bi-weekly newsleeter.
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