Customs Bond

A bond is required for most formal entries and for filing ISF. A continuous bond covers all entries for a year and is set at the greater of $50,000 or 10% of the duties, taxes, and fees paid in the prior 12 months, so rising tariffs can force a larger bond.

Should I get a single-entry or continuous customs bond?

A single-transaction bond covers one entry and suits importers with only a few shipments a year. If you import regularly, a continuous bond is usually cheaper overall and simplifies ISF and entry filings.

• Importer of RecordThe party legally responsible for an import into the US, including correct classification, valuation, and origin, payment of duties, and compliance with all import laws.
• Importer Security FilingA US filing, also called 10+2, that ocean importers must submit to CBP at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded on the vessel abroad.
• Entry SummaryThe CBP Form 7501 filing, usually submitted electronically through ACE by a customs broker, that declares classification, value, origin, and duties for an import and accompanies the duty payment.
• Customs BrokerA licensed professional who files entries with US Customs and Border Protection and calculates duties on behalf of importers.