How to Apply for an Exclusion from Trump’s Section 301 Tariffs on Chinese Products

  The USTR announced on Friday, July 6, 2018 the process for applying for exclusions from Trump’s first Section 301 Tariffs on products from China. The actual procedures for applying for the exclusion were later published in the Federal Register. Importers who have products on Trump’s first tariff list should make note of the following when considering whether they should apply for an…

What is a Customs bond?

Upon importation of merchandise, an importer assumes certain responsibilities to the U.S. Customs: making the goods available for inspection; labeling and packaging requirements; making records of transactions available for inspection; paying estimated, or any additional duties when and where applicable. U.S. Customs is authorized to take bonds to assure the performance of the responsibilities by…

Keep your shipment data private!

Every shipping vessel that enters and leaves the United States is required to submit shipping records that document its cargo. This information filed to Customs is called “Automated Manifest System”. Thanks to the Freedom of Information Act, most of this information is a matter of public record. Sites such as www.piers.com, www.zepol.com and www.importgenius.com retrieve…

Importing Electric Bicycles

Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative way to commute. Importing them requires knowledge of regulations from three different government agencies. 1. DOT (Department of Transportation)   The key question is whether or not the electric bicycle is considered an “on-road” or “off-road” vehicle. If a vehicle is not primarily manufactured for on-road use, it…