FAQs

The Customs Modernization Act of 1993 is the popular name given to Title VI of the North American Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act [P.L. 103-182, 107 Stat. 2057], which became effective on December 8, 1993)

This service covers the calculation of the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), which is a charge imposed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, on an ad valorem (according to value) basis. MPF is 0.3464% of the entered value; Minimum $25, maximum $485. Calculation of the Merchandise Processing Fee is included in the base price.

A good used in the production of another good (e.g. raw materials or components).

The physical marking on a product that indicates the country of origin where the article was produced.

An entry document required to secure the release of imported merchandise that is either valued less than $2,000, or if valued in excess of $2,000, would otherwise be released on an informal entry (e.g., personal effects & household goods)

A good used in the production, testing or inspection of a good but not physically incorporated into the good, or a good used in the maintenance of buildings or the operation of equipment associated with the production of a good, including the following: fuel and energy; tools, dies and molds; spare parts and materials used [...]

Importer of Record is defined as the owner or purchaser of the goods, or when designated by the owner, purchaser, or consignee, a licensed Customs broker.

CBP must release all imported merchandise, with some exceptions, before it can be received by the importer/consignee. The CBP 3461, Immediate Release, is the form used to obtain the proper release from CBP.

For the purposes of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, and for determining a FTA Rule of Origin, the “Heading” refers to the first four digits of the HTS number (e.g. “3923”).

An organized numerical listing of goods and their duty rates which are used as the basis for coding merchandise. The HTS code determines the rate of duty, and whether the goods are subject to quotas, restraints, embargoes or other restrictions. All goods entering the territory of the United States must be classified according to the [...]