Importer of Record

The IOR carries the liability for duties and penalties, even if a broker files the entry. Brands that sell DDP or use a supplier as IOR should confirm who holds that role and whose bond and number appear on the entry.

Can my overseas supplier act as importer of record?

Yes, a foreign company can act as importer of record if it gets an IOR number and a US customs bond, often through a resident agent and broker. The brand then has less control and visibility over classification, valuation, and duty costs.

• Customs BrokerA licensed professional who files entries with US Customs and Border Protection and calculates duties on behalf of importers.
• Customs BondA surety bond posted with US Customs and Border Protection that guarantees an importer will pay duties, taxes, and fees and comply with import rules, issued as a single-transaction or continuous bond.
• Delivered Duty PaidAn Incoterm, also used in cross-border ecommerce, where the seller pays all transport, duties, and taxes so the buyer owes nothing on delivery.
• 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.