tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-361193844794643082024-09-13T03:54:03.811-07:00Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-63955497618450342812011-04-04T13:55:00.000-07:002011-04-04T13:55:00.664-07:00 <p>Purchasers should also be aware that some products might be considered contraband and cannot be brought into the United States under any circumstances. This includes the obvious, such as narcotics and child pornography, as well as less obvious items such as tainted food products, and other items, a list of which can be found in “Importing Into the United States.” Such merchandise can be seized by Customs, and attempts to import it may subject the importer to civil or even criminal sanctions. If you have any question at all about your purchase, you should contact your closest Customs port and get an opinion before you complete the transaction.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/how-to-import-internet-purchases-prohibited-merchandise.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-16910077466517409252011-04-04T09:39:00.000-07:002011-04-04T09:39:00.838-07:00 <p><a href="about:www.itintl.com/Customs_Form_7501_Entry_Summary.pdf">Download Customs Form 7501 (.pdf)</a></p><p>US Customs Form 7501 is one of two essential forms required for an import transaction. Form 7501 details origin and importer information, but its main purpose is to act as a receipt for US Customs. Blocks 27 through 40 are used for an imported item’s Harmonized Tariff Classification, the amount and quantity imported, and the value of the goods. With this information, US Customs can confirm the total amount dutiable and request payment from the importer.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/customs-form-7501-entry-summary.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-81625770453531426672011-04-04T02:11:00.000-07:002011-04-04T02:11:00.355-07:00 <p>Information and materials downloaded from the Internet are not subject to duty. This applies to any goods or merchandise that are electronically transmitted to the purchaser, such as CDs, books, or posters. However, the unauthorized downloading of copyrighted items could subject you to prosecution. Downloading child pornography is also a crime. U.S. Customs Service has the authority to investigate and prosecute persons involved in this and other illegal activities.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/how-to-import-internet-purchases-electronic-transmissions.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-2689139068759345162011-04-03T22:53:00.000-07:002011-04-03T22:53:00.406-07:00 <p>If you are sending goods to someone outside the United States, you should be aware that most countries have similar regulations governing the importation of goods into their territory. If you are selling goods on a “Payment on Delivery” basis, you might want to contact the Customs authority of the country where the goods are being shipped to make sure they can legally be imported into that country. In addition, some commodities sold for export are subject to enforcement requirements of the Customs Service and other U.S. government agencies. In particular, cars and goods with potential military applications, including some electronics and software, must be cleared through Customs before they are exported. And if you export goods worth more than $2,500, you will have to follow formal export procedures.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/how-to-import-internet-purchases-exporting.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-31928198992982798482011-04-03T18:54:00.000-07:002011-04-03T18:54:00.854-07:00 <p>(Monday, September 20, 2004)</p><p>Washington, D.C. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Robert C. Bonner today announced the success of a pilot that will allow CBP to collect duties and fees on a monthly basis. In the first three months, nearly $32 million were collected from importers and brokers using the monthly statement and payment capabilities in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), the new CBP technology system for imports. Customs and Border Protection is transforming the way the federal government collects duties for imported goods,” said Commissioner Bonner. “For the first time in 215 years, importers and brokers can make a single monthly duty payment on all imported goods instead of paying duties on them one entry at a time. ACE is successfully modernizing the import business process, while improving efficiency and security for both CBP and the importing community.”</p><p>The ACE is enhancing processing and communications with the trade community, and providing quicker, more comprehensive reporting and information gathering capabilities to all users. ACE users can now develop up to 60 different reports, query accounts, integrate ledgers, create on-line account action plans, receive shipment alerts or notifications, view import transactions on a national basis, review a monthly listing of their daily account statements, and make monthly electronic duty payments.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/us-customs-and-border-protection-new-import-technology-simplifies-duty-collection.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-7196406003547496782011-04-03T15:10:00.000-07:002011-04-03T15:10:01.011-07:00 <a title="View all posts in Government" href="http://www.itintl.com/category/government" rel="category tag">Government</a> <br>If I have some technical data that I’d like to place in the public domain, how can I do it?<p>By obtaining approval by the cognizant U.S. Government department or agency, or the DoDs Directorate for Freedom of Information and Security Review.</p>How can I tell if a piece of information is really technical data?<p>The information in question may be technical data if it:<br>(a) contains quantitative information<br>(b) is not found in the public domain, either in whole or in part<br>(c) was generated by Independent R&D for military application<br>(d) was generated under a DoD contract<br>(e) is a genuine engineering scale drawing, not a cartoon<br>(f) provides understanding of sensitive capabilities (e.g., stealth characteristics), or vulnerabilities (e.g., EMI problems);<br>(g) provides meaningful insight in the areas of design or manufacturing<br>(h) contains answers to questions involving how to and why<br>(i) is extracted unabridged from technical documents directly relating to defense articles or defense services<br>(j) goes beyond general scientific, mathematical or engineering principles commonly taught in universities<br>(k) otherwise appears as though it might be technical data.</p>Is technical data the only kind of information controlled under the ITAR?<p>No. Information used in military training of foreign forces, for example, may not contain any technical data but is ITAR controlled nonetheless.</p>Can technical data be temporary exported?<p>No. All exports of technical data are considered to be permanent.</p>What is the meaning of the term temporary import?<p>Temporary import means bringing into the United States from a foreign country a defense articles that is to be returned to that country or is in transit to another country.</p>This entry was posted on Monday, November 12th, 2007 at 12:19 am and is filed under <a title="View all posts in Government" href="http://www.itintl.com/category/government" rel="category tag">Government</a>. You can follow any responses to this entry through the <a href="http://www.itintl.com/state-department-questions-6.html/feed">RSS 2.0</a> feed. You can <a href="about:blank#respond">leave a response</a>, or <a href="http://www.itintl.com/state-department-questions-6.html/trackback" rel="trackback">trackback</a> from your own site.<br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/state-department-questions-6.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-57070199574160865452011-04-03T11:23:00.000-07:002011-04-03T11:23:00.399-07:00Translate Request has too much data<br />Parameter name: request<br /> <P>U.S. Customs and Border Protection is addressing the terrorist threat 24-hours a day. We have a multi-layered approach that encompasses working with our foreign counterparts, employing intelligence, technology, advanced information in the field and the most professional workforce worldwide. We are aware of the terrorist threat and are evolving hourly to face it and keep America safe. CBP uses various strategies and employs the latest in technology to accomplish its goals. We have extended our zone of security beyond our physical borders through the use of bilateral and private-sector partnerships, targeting and scrutinizing advance information on people and products coming into this country. We are cultivating smart borders through the use of technology and have established a layered defense strategy. And we have created one face at the border, a unified, recognizable presence at the border that combines and capitalizes on the authorities and skills of our diverse workforce. CBP has achieved much since its creation in March 2003. Some of the most significant accomplishments are as follows:</P><P>Strengthening control of the United States borders</P><P>Technology</P><P>Augmented Integrated Surveillance Intelligence System (ISIS), that uses remotely monitored night-day camera and sensing systems to better detect, monitor, and respond to illegal crossings, on both the Northern and Southern borders.</P><P>Deployed radiation detection technology including Personal Radiation Detectors (PRDs) to more than 10, 400 CBP officers and agents, and Radiation Isotope Identification Detection System (RIIDS) to over 60 Border Patrol field locations.</P><P>Increased the amount of Remote Video Surveillance Systems (RVSS) which are pole mounted cameras that provide coverage 24 hours a day/7 days a week to detect illegal crossings, on both our Northern and Southern borders.</P><P>Deployed two Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) to support the Arizona Border Control Initiative. UAVs are equipped with sophisticated on-board sensors that provide long-range surveillance and are useful for monitoring remote land border areas where patrols cannot easily <A href="http://www.seabreezelodge.org/">travel</A> and infrastructure is difficult or impossible to build.</P><P>Implemented a Geographic Information System (GIS), a Southwest border initiative, which tracks illegal migration patterns to better deploy personnel and resources to establish control of our border.</P><P>Increased use of radiation portal monitors. These detection devices provide CBP with a passive, non-intrusive means to screen trucks and other conveyances for the presence of nuclear and radiological materials.</P><P>Encourage use of smart and secure containers. In order to qualify as a smart box container, it must use a seal or other type of high-security, tamper-evident technology that meets the standards of the International Organization for Standardization. The containers must also have to be equipped with tamper-proof or tamper-evident container security devices.</P><P>Increased Border Patrol aircraft and helicopter and marine operations on the northern, southern and coastal areas to enhance our ability to protect and secure our waterways. Resources and Initiatives</P><P>Tripled the number of Border Patrol Agents on the Northern Border before 9/11, bringing the total number of agents to 1,000 assigned to the U.S border with Canada. Currently, there are about 11,200 Border Patrol agents nationwide.</P><P>Reassigned 200 CBP Border Patrol Agents to the high-threat smuggling corridors of the Arizona-Mexico border. CBP is continuing deployments of special units including the Border Patrol Tactical Unit, Special Response Teams, and the Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue Team in these areas. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will maintain and expand coordinated, heightened security efforts under the Arizona Border Control Initiative (ABCI) to establish operational control over the weakest and most vulnerable area of our Southwest Border where more than 40 percent of illegal aliens are apprehended.</P><P>Established additional Border Patrol checkpoints in strategically-located zones of egress from border areas to improve border security by strengthening our defense in depth.</P><P>Deployed specially trained explosive and chemical detector dogs to conduct inspections at our Border Patrol Checkpoints.</P><P>Implemented the Interior Repatriation Program in July 2004. Interior repatriation is a voluntary program that repatriates Mexican nationals who are apprehended to Mexico City or Guadalajara, Mexico and then to their point of origin instead of to the closest port of entry into Mexico. This program is designed to save lives and break the cycle of smuggling into the United States through the Tucson, Arizona corridor.</P><P>Developed a set of policies and practices to ensure that when CBP does encounter an individual, package or conveyance that presents a potential national security risk the proper anti-terrorism procedures are followed. These procedures are designed to ensure that anti-terrorism responses involve appropriate coordination and information sharing among all relevant law enforcement and intelligence agencies, and required CBP to improve communication and coordination with other agencies such as the FBI and ICE.</P><P>Worked with national intelligence agencies to share data on suspicious activity and share information with CBP personnel on the front lines.</P><P>Expanded the use of expedited removal, already available at ports of entry, to areas between ports of entry patrolled by CBP Border Patrol Agents. This permits aliens apprehended after illegally entering the U.S. to be more efficiently and expeditiously removed from the United States.</P><P>Secure traveler programs</P><P>Implemented NEXUS, an alternative inspection system, which allows pre-screened, low-risk travelers to be processed in an expedited manner by CBP, via a dedicated commuter lane at several Canadian land borders.</P><P>Used the Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) at ports of entry along the U.S. -Mexico border. Dedicated commuter lanes and an automated system allow motorists at selected southern land border ports to enter the United States faster.</P><P>Improved selectivity, screening, and targeting</P><P>National Targeting Center was established on October 21, 2001before September 11, no national level targeting of people or goods crossing our borders existed. The NTC is the centralized coordination point for all of CBPs anti-terrorism efforts. Utilizing sophisticated targeting methodology it analyzes, screens, and targets for intensive anti-terrorism inspection all passengers and cargo before arrival in the United States.</P><P>Established the 24-hour rule, which requires that CBP receive detailed electronic information on all U.S.-bound sea cargo before the cargo is loaded at the foreign port, which provides for improved targeting capability.</P><P>CBP uses advance information from the Automated Targeting System (ATS), Automated Export System (AES), and the Trade Act of 2002 Advance Electronic Information Regulations to perform transactional risk assessments, evaluate potential national security risks, and identify cargo that may pose a threat.</P><P>U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CBP personnel are working side by side at the NTC to protect the U.S. food supply by screening high-risk imported food shipments and implementing provisions of the Bioterrorism Act of 2002. CBP and FDA are able to react quickly to threats of bio-terrorist attacks on the U.S. food supply or to other food related emergencies.</P><P>The Aviation Transportation Security Act of 2001 (APIS) and the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Reform Act of 2002, mandated the electronic transmission of passenger and crew manifest for inbound and outbound commercial air and sea carriers to the APIS system.</P><P>The Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS) was implemented in August 2003. It is an Internet/Intranet based system operated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement that electronically captures, maintains, and monitors information relevant to each foreign student, exchange visitor, and their dependents. SEVIS provides CBP with a mechanism to facilitate the entry of bonafide students and exchange visitors and quickly identify possible status violators.</P><P>The Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) continues to make electronic risk management far more effective. The ACE Secure Data Portal provides a single, centralized on-line access point to connect CBP and the trade community. CBP’s modernization efforts enhance border security while optimizing the ever-increasing flow of legitimate trade.</P><P>Pushing Our Zone of Security Outward</P><P>Established the Container Security Initiative (CSI) ( Container Security Initiative (CSI) ) . CSI allows CBP to target, and with our foreign counterparts, screen containers, prior to the container being laded on ships destined for the United States. Teams of CBP officers have been assigned to 25 overseas ports to target and screen containers that pose a potential risk for terrorism destined for the United States. Nineteen countries have committed to participation in CSI. There are 37 ports within those nineteen countries that are in various stages of CSI implementation.</P><P>Instituted the Immigration Security Initiative (ISI) pilot program that places teams of CBP officers at key foreign hub airports working with foreign law enforcement and airline officials to inspect high-risk passengers prior to boarding U.S. bound aircraft. The first two foreign airports to participate in the program are Amsterdam, Holland and Warsaw, Poland. Private/public sector and international partnerships</P><P>Established Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) ( Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) ) to work with importers, carriers, brokers, and other industry sectors to emphasize a seamless security-conscious environment throughout the entire commercial process, from manufacture through transportation and importation to ultimate distribution. Begun in November, 2001, C-TPAT now has more than 7,000 members and is the largest public/private partnership in federal government in U.S. history. C-TPAT provides a forum for the business community and CBP to exchange anti-terrorism ideas, concepts and information to further secure the entire commercial process.</P><P>Established the Free and Secure Trade Program (FAST) ( FAST Application Information ) , an expedited processing program to speed the movement of secure truck shipments across our shared borders.</P><P>Expanded the Border Safety Initiative (BSI), whose primary objective is the reduction of injuries and prevention of deaths in the southwest border region and the creation of a safer border environment. BSI is a bi-lateral agreement with the Mexican government to inform potential migrants of the hazards of crossing the border illegally and to respond to those who are in a life-threatening situation.</P><P>Established Smart Border Action Plans, which are cooperative agreements with Canada and Mexico to protect our common borders as well as our shared economic prosperity. The plans provide for additional security personnel to protect our shared borders.</P><P>One Face at the Border</P><P>Successfully integrated four different organizations from three different departments of government into CBP with no interruption in operations.</P><P>Named a single port director for unified CBP operations at each of the more than 300 ports of entry.</P><P>Established a short, clear chain of command from the field to headquarters that encompassed the customs, immigration, and agriculture responsibilities of the new agency.</P><P>Issued new DHS badges to CBP officers, CBP agriculture specialists, and CBP Border Patrol agents. The new badge is the visible, unifying symbol of the entire CBP frontline workforce, and represents DHS and CBPs commitment to preserve and protect our nation.</P><P>Expanded coverage of the Customs Officer Pay Reform Act (COPRA) to bring fairness to inspector overtime pay. To address the inequities created by numerous overtime systems for frontline inspectors transferring to CBP, the agency proposed that based on its advantages, COPRA, which has been in effect since 1994, be used for all inspectors.</P><P>Converted over 18,000 Customs, Immigration, and Agriculture Inspectors to two new positions — Customs and Border Protection Officer (1895 Series) and Agriculture Inspector (0401 Series). This initiative fully integrates the inspectional functions of CBPs legacy inspectors, enhancing the agencys ability to perform its anti-terrorism and traditional missions.</P><P>Implemented shared HRM services to optimize service and efficiency to its customers. HRM has established a new shared services organization that fully integrates additional staff from legacy agencies. The new service provides the tri-bureaus of ICE, USCIS, and CBP with high-quality HR service as well as service to other DHS clients.</P><P>Established CareerFinder as the agencys online vacancy system. Careerfinder will be used to fill all tri-bureau vacancies (USCIS, CBP, ICE), excluding only entry-level positions that require testing.</P><P>Initiated an innovative Border Patrol relocation expense program. The new program reduces the average cost of voluntary moves for Border Patrol Agents from approximately $72,000 to $12,000 per move.</P><P>Training</P><P>Improved anti-terrorism training for all CBP personnel. CBP has implemented anti-terrorism training for all personnel with a special focus on training related to weapons of mass effect. This includes identifying and intercepting potential instruments of terrorism using non-intrusive inspection technology and radiation detection equipment.</P><P>Produced an agriculture fundamentals module for classes of new CBP Officers as their initiation to the agriculture component of their new training. A new agriculture procedures module will be delivered to all current CBP Officers at the nation’s ports of entry.</P><P>Keeping our borders and our future safe and secure CBP will continue its efforts to defend our borders against terrorists and their weapons through innovative use of detection technology, advanced information systems, risk-management, and collaborative ventures with the trade and foreign governments while maintaining a vigorous and welcoming tourism and commercial trade posture.</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/factsheet-us-customs-and-border-protection-actions-taken-since-911.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-80616426930037499872011-04-03T00:12:00.000-07:002011-04-03T00:12:00.204-07:00 <a title="View all posts in Import" href="http://www.itintl.com/category/import" rel="category tag">Import</a> <br><p>Below are most of the initial HTS classification categories that precious stones and gems will fall into.</p>68042100.–Millstones, grindstones, grinding wheels and the like, nesoi, of agglomerated synthetic or natural diamond–01/01/199968042100.–Millstones, grindstones, grinding wheels and the like, nesoi, of agglomerated synthetic or natural diamond–01/01/199970181020.–Glass imitation precious or semiprecious stones (except beads)–01/01/199971021000.–Diamonds, unsorted, whether or not worked–01/01/198971021000.–Diamonds, unsorted, whether or not worked–01/01/198971022110.–Miners’ diamonds, unworked or simply sawn, cleaved or bruted–01/01/198971022110.–Miners’ diamonds, unworked or simply sawn, cleaved or bruted–01/01/198971022130.–Industrial diamonds (other than miners’ diamonds), simply sawn, cleaved or bruted–01/01/199971022130.–Industrial diamonds (other than miners’ diamonds), simply sawn, cleaved or bruted–01/01/199971022140.–Industrial diamonds (other than miners’ diamonds), unworked–01/01/198971022140.–Industrial diamonds (other than miners’ diamonds), unworked–01/01/198971022900.–Industrial diamonds, worked, but not mounted or set–01/01/198971022900.–Industrial diamonds, worked, but not mounted or set–01/01/198971023100.–Nonindustrial diamonds, unworked or simply sawn, cleaved or bruted–01/01/198971023100.–Nonindustrial diamonds, unworked or simply sawn, cleaved or bruted–01/01/198971023900.–Nonindustrial diamonds, worked, but not mounted or set–01/01/198971023900.–Nonindustrial diamonds, worked, but not mounted or set–01/01/198971031020.–Precious stones (o/than diamonds) & semiprecious stones, unworked–01/01/198971031020.–Precious stones (o/than diamonds) & semiprecious stones, unworked–01/01/198971031020.–Precious stones (o/than diamonds) & semiprecious stones, unworked–01/01/198971031040.–Precious stones (o/than diamonds) & semiprecious stones, simply sawn or roughly shaped–01/01/200471031040.–Precious stones (o/than diamonds) & semiprecious stones, simply sawn or roughly shaped–01/01/200471031040.–Precious stones (o/than diamonds) & semiprecious stones, simply sawn or roughly shaped–01/01/200471039100.–Rubies, sapphires and emeralds, worked, whether or not graded, but n/strung (ex. ungraded temporarily strung), mounted or set–01/01/198971039910.–Precious or semiprecious stones, nesoi, cut but not set and suitable for use in the manufacture of jewelry–01/01/199971039950.–Precious or semiprecious stones, nesoi, worked, whether or not graded, but n/strung (ex. ungraded temporarily strung), mtd. or set–01/01/200471042000.–Synthetic or reconstructed precious or semiprecious stones, unworked or simply sawn or roughly shaped–01/01/200471049010.–Synthetic or reconstructed precious or semiprecious stones, cut but not set & suitable for use in the manufacture of jewelry–01/01/199971049050.–Synth.or reconstruct. precious or semiprecious stones, wkd, whether or not graded, but n/strung (ex.ungraded temp. strung), mtd./set,nesoi–01/01/200471051000.–Diamond dust and powder–01/01/198971051000.–Diamond dust and powder–01/01/198971059000.–Natural or synthetic precious (except diamond) or semiprecious stone dust and powder–01/01/199971059000.–Natural or synthetic precious (except diamond) or semiprecious stone dust and powder–01/01/199971059000.–Natural or synthetic precious (except diamond) or semiprecious stone dust and powder–01/01/199971162005.–Jewelry articles of precious or semiprecious stones, valued not over $40 per piece–01/01/200471162015.–Jewelry articles of precious or semiprecious stones, valued over $40 per piece–01/01/200471162030.–Semiprecious stones (except rock crystal), graded and strung temporarily for convenience of transport–01/01/200471162035.–Semiprecious stone (except rock crystal) figurines–01/01/200471162040.–Semiprecious stone (except rock crystal) articles (other than jewelry and figurines)–01/01/200471162050.–Precious stone articles,nesoi–01/01/199998178201.–Certain mounted tool and drill bit blanks of polycrystalline diamond & mounted tool blanks of polycrystalline diamond (of certain headings)–01/01/199698178201.–Certain mounted tool and drill bit blanks of polycrystalline diamond & mounted tool blanks of polycrystalline diamond (of certain headings)–01/01/199699032710.–Ukraine goods: Diamonds, unsorted (provided for in subheading 7102.10.00)–01/23/200299032710.–Ukraine goods: Diamonds, unsorted (provided for in subheading 7102.10.00)–01/23/200299032711.–Ukraine goods: Diamonds, nonindustrial (provided for in subheading 7102.31.00 or 7102.39.00)–01/23/200299032711.–Ukraine goods: Diamonds, nonindustrial (provided for in subheading 7102.31.00 or 7102.39.00)–01/23/2002This entry was posted on Monday, November 12th, 2007 at 1:43 am and is filed under <a title="View all posts in Import" href="http://www.itintl.com/category/import" rel="category tag">Import</a>. You can follow any responses to this entry through the <a href="http://www.itintl.com/us-gem-importing-how-to-import-gems-to-the-us-classifications.html/feed">RSS 2.0</a> feed. You can <a href="about:blank#respond">leave a response</a>, or <a href="http://www.itintl.com/us-gem-importing-how-to-import-gems-to-the-us-classifications.html/trackback" rel="trackback">trackback</a> from your own site.<br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/us-gem-importing-how-to-import-gems-to-the-us-classifications.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-75244623042349866952011-04-02T20:40:00.000-07:002011-04-02T20:40:00.458-07:00 <p>Textiles products have the benefit of inexpensive overseas production sources as well as a large US market demand and can be a highly profitable and popular import commodity. Due to the over-saturation of overseas textile manufacturers and the US socio-political agenda, however, the United States has developed a complicated system designed to regulate the importation of textiles. If you are looking to import textiles into the United States, this guide is for you. Webster’s Dictionary defines Textile as: Pertaining to weaving or to woven fabrics; as, textile arts; woven, capable of being woven; formed by weaving; as, textile fabrics.”</p><p>For import purposes, this definition extends to a wide variety of clothing, bedding, and fabric related products. Articles of nightwear, hosiery, sportswear, and apparel are all considered textile products.</p><p>Textiles and textile products are listed in their own section in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States found (as of 10/18/04) here:</p><p>The HTS is the source used by the United States Government and US Customs to determine duty rates.</p>The end use of the textile product.<p>Once the initial category for your textile has been determined, it is the importer’s responsibilty to consult the USHTS to determine the specific classification and duty rate of their product.</p><p>First time importers are encouraged to contact a freight forwarder or licensed US Customs broker for assistance with filing import entries and arranging transportation. When dealing with a freight forwarder or broker, it is important to research your product and its import regulations. As the importer, you will ultimately be responsible for all facets of your import shipment.</p><p>62032210.–Men’s or boys’ judo, karate and other oriental martial arts uniforms, not knitted or crocheted, of cotton–01/01/2004<br>62032230.–Men’s or boys’ ensembles, not knitted or crocheted, of cotton, other than judo, karate and other oriental martial arts uniforms–01/01/2004<br>62042210.–Women’s or girls’ judo, karate and other oriental martial arts uniforms, not knitted or crocheted, of cotton–01/01/2004<br>62042230.–Women’s or girls’ ensembles, not knitted or crocheted, of cotton, other than judo, karate and other oriental martial arts uniforms–01/01/2004</p><p>61152010.–Women’s full-length or knee-length hosiery, measuring per single yarn less than 67 decitex containing 70% or more by wt of silk, knit/croc–01/01/2004<br>61152090.–Women’s full-length or knee-length hosiery, measuring per single yarn less than 67 decitex containing under 70% by wt of silk, knitted/croc–01/01/2004<br>61159100.–Hosiery nesoi, knitted or crocheted, of wool or fine animal hair–01/01/2004<br>61159914.–Hosiery nesoi, of artificial fibers, containing lace or net–01/01/2004<br>61159918.–Hosiery nesoi, knitted or crocheted, of artificial fibers, other than those containing lace or net–01/01/2004</p><p>61072920.–Men’s or boys’ nightshirts and pajamas, knitted or crocheted, of wool or fine animal hair–01/01/2004<br>61072950.–Men’s or boys’ nightshirts and pajamas, of textile materials (ex cotton, mmf or wool), containing 70% or more by wt of silk, knitted or croc–01/01/2004<br>61072990.–Men’s or boys’ nightshirts and pajamas, of textile materials (ex cotton, mmf or wool), containing under 70% by wt of silk, knitted or croc–01/01/2004<br>61083100.–Women’s or girls’ nightdresses and pajamas, knitted or crocheted, of cotton–01/01/2004<br>61083200.–Women’s or girls’ nightdresses and pajamas, knitted or crocheted, of man-made fibers–01/01/2004</p><p>39262090.–Articles of apparel & clothing accessories, of plastic, nesoi–01/01/2004<br>40159000.–Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, excluding gloves, of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber–01/01/2004<br>42031020.–Articles of apparel, of reptile leather–01/01/2004<br>42031040.–Articles of apparel, of leather or of composition leather, nesi–01/01/2004<br>43031000.–Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, of furskins–01/01/2004</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/how-to-import-textiles-into-the-us.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-54818473703521888612011-04-02T16:52:00.000-07:002011-04-02T16:52:00.319-07:00 <p>The US International Trade Commission updates the <a href="about:/publications/us-harmonized-tariff-schedule">Harmonized Tariff Schedule</a> on a yearly basis to reflect new legislation, trade practices, and adjusted tariff rates. In addition to yearly updates, interim updates are published throughout the year to reflect current international trade standards and practices.</p><p>Effective September 1, 2006 the following major changes have been made to the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule:</p>Presidential Proclamation 8039 (71 F.R. 43635) of July 27, 2006, To Implement The United States-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement, and for Other Purposes, effective August 1, 2006 Federal RegisterPresidential Proclamation 8033 (71 F.R. 38255) of June 30, 2006, To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized System of Preferences, effective July 1, 2006 Federal Register NoticePresidential Proclamation 8034 (71 F.R. 38509) of June 30, 2006, To Implement the Dominican Republic-Central American-United States Free Trade Agreement with Respect to Guatemala, effective July 1, 2006Determinations Under the African Growth and Opportunity Act-United States Trade Representative Notice to add the Republic of Chad to the List of Countries Eligible Under AGOA (71 FR 24762)Presidential Proclamation 7995 – To Extend Nondiscriminatory Treatment for Products of the Ukraine (71 FR 16969)Presidential Proclamation 7996 – To Implement the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement With Respect to Honduras and Nicaragua (71 FR 16971)Modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to Implement the Dominican Republic – Central American – United States Free Trade Agreement with Respect to Honduras and Nicaragua (USITC Pub. 3845, March, 2006)Presidential Proclamation 7987 – To Implement the Dominican Republic – Central America – United States Free Trade Agreement (71 FR 10827)Modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to Implement the Dominican Republic – Central American – United States Free Trade Agreement with Respect to El Salvador (USITC Pub. 3829, March 1, 2006)<br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/updates-and-changes-to-the-us-harmonized-tariff-schedule.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-47986861942953590482011-04-02T05:12:00.000-07:002011-04-02T05:12:00.256-07:00 <p>This question came in response to the post entitled <a href="http://www.itintl.com/what-is-a-foreign-trade-zone.html">What is a Foreign Trade Zone?</a></p><p><strong>Sandra asks</strong></p><blockquote readability="6"><p>This customs thing is very confusing to me, but I keep reading more and more to try to understand.I am going to be very up front. I like to sell mirror image designer handbags like LOTS of other people do.I just do’t understand how they get shipments thru customs without getting caught. But this letter may explain some of it. Can anyone put imports in a FTZ warehouse? How does that work?</p></blockquote><p><strong>My response</strong></p><p>If you’re trying to sell knock-off purses that infringe on someone else’s trademark, then your shipments are probably going to get seized by Customs. One of the duties of the CBP is to protect against counterfeit goods and an FTZ is not a way around that. An FTZ is more of a quarantined holding area for special case shipments. The goods are allowed into the special US warehouse where you can work with them to some degree, but the are not allowed into the commerce of the United States (aka sold in the US) until they pass through the Customs process.</p><p>I can’t tell you 100% where the bags you see people selling are coming from, but I imagine that they either slip by Customs, are smuggled in, or are different enough from the trademark holder that they are allowed in.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/importing-knock-off-purses.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-64105776598739389452011-04-01T16:58:00.000-07:002011-04-01T16:58:00.181-07:00 <a title="View all posts in Export" href="http://www.itintl.com/category/export" rel="category tag">Export</a> <br><p>View announcements from qualified international companies looking to source U.S. products and services and advertise government tender projects through our trade leads database. All of our trade leads are pre-screened by our U.S. embassy or consulate staff overseas and are provided as a free service for U.S. exporters.</p><p>Billions of dollars worth of international projects are funded every year through the World Bank and the various multilateral development banks (MLDBs). Learn what projects are upcoming in your industry and region of interest.</p>This entry was posted on Monday, November 12th, 2007 at 1:31 am and is filed under <a title="View all posts in Export" href="http://www.itintl.com/category/export" rel="category tag">Export</a>. You can follow any responses to this entry through the <a href="http://www.itintl.com/trade-leads-resources.html/feed">RSS 2.0</a> feed. You can <a href="about:blank#respond">leave a response</a>, or <a href="http://www.itintl.com/trade-leads-resources.html/trackback" rel="trackback">trackback</a> from your own site.<br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/trade-leads-resources.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-71827639531931002562011-04-01T00:20:00.000-07:002011-04-01T00:20:00.505-07:00 <p>Goods imported for commercial purposes must comply with a variety of special requirements, such as marking of country of origin, which vary depending upon the particular commodity. Please see our publication, “Importing Into the United States,” for more detailed information. Be particularly aware that an invoice should always accompany commercial shipments.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/how-to-import-internet-purchases-for-commercial-purposes.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-13158836438332624252011-03-31T19:30:00.000-07:002011-03-31T19:30:00.268-07:00 <p>An international freight forwarder is an agent for the exporter in moving cargo to an overseas destination. These agents are familiar with the import rules and regulations of foreign countries, the export regulations of the U.S. government, the methods of shipping, and the documents related to foreign trade. Export freight forwarders are licensed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to handle air freight and the Federal Maritime Commission to handle ocean freight.</p><p>Freight forwarders assist exporters in preparing price quotations by advising on freight costs, port charges, consular fees, costs of special documentation, insurance costs, and their handling fees. They recommend the packing methods that will protect the merchandise during transit or can arrange to have the merchandise packed at the port or containerized. If the exporter prefers, freight forwarders can reserve the necessay space on a vessel, aircraft, train, or truck. The cost for their services is a legitimate export cost that should be included in the price charged to the customer (see Chapter 11 of the Basic Guide to Exporting for pricing information.).</p><p>Once the order is ready for shipment, freight forwarders should be review all documents to ensure that everything is in order. This is of particular importance with letter of credit payment terms. They may also prepare the bill of lading and any special required documentation. After shipment, they can route the documents to the seller, the buyer, or to a paying bank. Freight forwarders can also make arrangements with customs brokers overseas to ensure that the goods comply with customs export documentation regulations. A customs broker is an individual or company that is licensed to transact customs business on behalf of others. Customs business is limited to those activities involving transactions related to the entry and admissibility of merchandise; its classification and valuation; the payment of duties, taxes, or other charges assessed or collected; or the refund, rebate, or drawback thereof.</p><p>Finding a Local Freight Forwarder Freight forwarders are located in most metropolitan areas. Yellow pages often have a freight forwarder, or transportation, heading. Additionally, the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America will provide exporters with information on their members. They can be reached at 1200 18th Street, NW, Suite 901,Washington, DC 20036, (202) 466-0222, or http://www.ncbfaa.org/.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/what-is-a-freight-forwarder.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-25098873638688940492011-03-31T10:59:00.000-07:002011-03-31T10:59:00.589-07:00 <p>Here’s a new HTS lookup service for anyone who’s ever had problems finding HTS tariff codes for their import or export shipments.</p><p>Basically, you can use it to look up tariff rates for any item with a keyword search, or by typing in the HTS number directly. There are a few software packages that you can buy to do this kind of lookup, but this one is free and you don’t have to signup or give out your email. I also imagine that they keep it up to date with the latest HTS versions, so no worrying about that.</p><p>Here’s the link to <a href="http://findhts.com/">find hts codes</a></p><p>The free service is cool, but on top of that they also offer a downloadable version of the same database that powers their site. I’ve seen this same product go for $400+, and they have it listed for about that half price. If you need that kind of data for a larger import business or some other application (I use it on this site), then it’s a pretty good deal. Here’s the link to <a href="http://findhts.com/tariff/order">download the HTS database</a>. If you find any other good uses for that data, let me know and I’ll list them on our sit</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/find-hts-codes.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-66878936008346082902011-03-31T07:48:00.000-07:002011-03-31T07:48:00.774-07:00 <p><strong>What’s the maximum amount of money Customs can fine a person for negligence in importing (if the circumstances were not disclosed beforehand to Customs)?</strong></p><p>According to 19 CFR 162.73(a)(3)(ii), an importer can be penalized 20% of the dutiable value of the goods.</p><p><strong>Are fines with Customs set in stone? Do they have any room to work with importers for special circumstances?</strong></p><p>Customs can work with penalties and mitigate fines at their discretion if</p>The importer is inexperienced, and the fine/penalty is a result of that inexperienceThe importer in violation takes steps to correct the source of the penalty (remarking goods, repackaging, fumigation, etc.)The importer has a long-standing history of violation-free imports.An error was made by Customs.<p><strong>What would cause Customs to seize merchandise?</strong></p><p>According to 19 CFR 171 Appendix B G, Customs decision to seize merchandise can be influenced if:</p>The commodity is prohibited for import.There is an import restriction on the merchandise.The importer has stopped paying required duties and taxes on their imported merchandise.Customs believes they must seize an importer’s goods in order to ensure they receive payment.<p><strong>After making a verbal report to Customs about an import violation, how long do I have to provide a written statement?</strong></p><p>According to 19 CFR 162.74(a)(2), an importer has 10 days from the time the oral report is made to provide a written statement to the Fines, Penalties and Forfeitures Officer.</p><p><strong>I’ve made an error with Customs in the amount of duty I have to pay and have been penalized, but Customs has agreed to a reduced amount to cover everything I owe. How can I make sure it’s official?</strong></p><p>This is known as “an offer in compromise.” In order for it to be official, you must receive notification in writing from CBP that they received the offer.</p><p><strong>We imported a commodity that displayed a trademark which we do not own and Customs seized the shipment. The trademark owner gave us written permission to import the merchandise fourteen days after we were notified of the seizure. How long do we have to get the seizure and penalty reversed?</strong></p><p>You have thirty days from the date the notice of seizure was mailed to petition for relief.</p><p>Please note: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not specific legal advice. As an importer, it is your responsibility to meet all the legal requirements for importing goods.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/fines-penalties-and-forfeitures.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-55732231318628919822011-03-31T03:57:00.000-07:002011-03-31T03:57:00.450-07:00 <p>Many import regulations only apply to goods imported for commercial – business or resale – purposes. For instance, most goods imported for personal use are not subject to quota. The one exception to this is made-to-measure suits from Hong Kong, which are subject to quota restrictions regardless of the use they are imported for. On the other hand, import restrictions that are based on health, safety and protecting endangered species apply across the board. <strong>Note:</strong> Customs is authorized to make judgment calls about what qualifies as personal use. Several suits that are identical or a number of very similar handbags will have a hard time passing the credibility test as items for personal use.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/how-to-import-internet-purchases-personal-vs-commercial-use.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-52581555266942685612011-03-30T23:42:00.000-07:002011-03-30T23:42:00.776-07:00 <p>The Wholesalers Trade sector comprises establishments engaged in wholesaling merchandise, generally without transformation, and rendering services incidental to the sale of merchandise.</p><p>The wholesaling process is an intermediate step in the distribution of merchandise. Wholesalers are organized to sell or arrange the purchase or sale of (a) goods for resale (i.e., goods sold to other wholesalers or retailers), (b) capital or durable nonconsumer goods, and (c) raw and intermediate materials and supplies used in production.</p><p>Wholesalers sell merchandise to other businesses and normally operate from a warehouse or office. These warehouses and offices are characterized by having little or no display of merchandise. In addition, neither the design nor the location of the premises is intended to solicit walk-in traffic. Wholesalers do not normally use advertising directed to the general public. Customers are generally reached initially via telephone, in-person marketing, or by specialized advertising that may include Internet and other electronic means. Follow-up orders are either vendor-initiated or client-initiated, generally based on previous sales, and typically exhibit strong ties between sellers and buyers. In fact, transactions are often conducted between wholesalers and clients that have long-standing business relationships.</p><p>This sector comprises two main types of wholesalers: those that sell goods on their own account and those that arrange sales and purchases for others for a commission or fee.</p><p>(1) Establishments that sell goods on their own account are known as wholesalers, merchants, distributors, jobbers, drop shippers, import/export merchants, and sales branches. These establishments typically maintain their own warehouse, where they receive and handle goods for their customers. Goods are generally sold without transformation, but may include integral functions, such as sorting, packaging, labeling, and other marketing services.</p><p>(2) Establishments arranging for the purchase or sale of goods owned by others or purchasing goods on a commission basis are known as agents and brokers, commission merchants, import/export agents and brokers, auction companies, and manufacturers’ representatives. These establishments operate from offices and generally do not own or handle the goods they sell.</p><p>Some wholesalers establishments may be connected with a single manufacturer and promote and sell the particular manufacturers’ products to a wide range of other wholesalers or retailers. Other wholesalers may be connected to a retail chain or a limited number of retail chains and only provide a variety of products needed by that particular retail operation(s). These wholesalers may obtain the products from a wide range of manufacturers. Still other wholesalers may not take title to the goods, but act as agents and brokers for a commission.</p><p>Although, in general, wholesaling normally denotes sales in large volumes, durable nonconsumer goods may be sold in single units. Sales of capital or durable nonconsumer goods used in the production of goods and services, such as farm machinery, medium and heavy duty trucks, and industrial machinery, are always included in wholesale trade.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/naics-definitions-42-wholesalers-trade.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-72813030061005559612011-03-30T19:26:00.000-07:002011-03-30T19:26:00.115-07:00 <p>Many kinds of goods imported for commercial use may be subject to a quota limit. It is the classification number of the article as identified in the <a href="about:www.itintl.com/publications/us-harmonized-tariff-schedule">Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States</a> and the country of origin that determine whether or not an item is subject to quota requirements. In some cases, the quota is absolute, meaning that once the quota is filled – because the quota has reached its limit for that particular period of time – no additional quantities of that item may be imported until the next open period. Such merchandise must be warehoused or exported. Other quotas are tariff-related, which means that a certain quantity of goods may enter at a low rate of duty, but once that threshold is reached – during a specified period of time – a higher duty rate will be assessed for any additional quantities of that particular imported good. Unlimited quantities of some merchandise subject to tariff-rate quota may, however, enter at over the quota rates.</p><p>If you are importing goods for commercial use or resale, it’s a good idea to contact your local port of entry for more specific information.</p><p>The Quota program is generally applied only to commercial importations. While the importation of many goods imported under “personal use” quantities are not affected by quota restrictions, there is one exception; made-to-measure suits made in Hong Kong, which are restricted for both personal and commercial use.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/how-to-import-internet-purchases-quota.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-1808668817648358642011-03-30T14:35:00.000-07:002011-03-30T14:35:00.286-07:00 <p>On August 15, 2004, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published the “Required Advance Electronic Presentation of Cargo Information” for importers, carriers, and commercial truck drivers to meet the requirements of the Trade Act of 2002. This notice is to inform truck carriers when they will be required to transmit advance electronic cargo information to CBP regarding cargo they are bringing into the United States, as mandated by section 343(a) of the Trade Act of 2002 and the implementing regulations.</p><p>These regulations, titled 19CFR123, specify that truck carriers carrying Border Release Advanced Screening and Selectivity (BRASS) merchandise may only utilize drivers who are registered under the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program and carrying a valid FAST Driver Card.</p><p>CBP will begin enforcing the requirements indicated in the “Required Advance Electronic Presentation of Cargo Information” November 15, 2004.</p><p>The FAST Commercial Driver Program is the result of United States, Canada and Mexico Border Partnership Action Plans. These plans are designed to enhance the security of our shared borders while facilitating the legitimate flow of low-risk commerce. These initiatives were implemented by CBP with the cooperation and assistance from the Governments of Mexico and Canada.</p><p>There are separate applications for the Northern Border FAST and Southern Border FAST programs. Applications take approximately six weeks to process for registration in the Northern Border Fast program and two weeks to process for registration in the Southern Border Fast program.</p><p>As of November 15, any BRASS shipment that is not being hauled by a FAST registered driver will be denied entry into the United States.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/fast-truck-driver-requirements-effective-november-15-2004.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-80512138801531140592011-03-30T07:15:00.000-07:002011-03-30T07:15:00.809-07:00 <p>Importers bringing merchandise into the United States for consumption must place their goods in a bonded facility while entry is filed with Customs. Goods remaining in a bonded facility for fifteen calendar days without an entry filed will be moved to a Customs approved, GO (General Order) bonded warehouse. There the goods will remain for six months from the date of import. If after six months, the goods have not been documented and duties/fees paid, they will be sold at auction, donated to charity or retained by the Government. Bonded warehouses must notify Customs of un-entered goods not later than 20 calendar days from the date of arrival in the port of import. Warehouse/vessel operators failing to report un-entered merchandise are subject to a penalty of up to one thousand dollars per bill of lading.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/what-is-a-general-order-warehouse.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-8514943706379819122011-03-29T23:09:00.000-07:002011-03-29T23:09:00.871-07:00 <p>Import tax or import tariffs (also known as import duties) in the United States generally refer to the taxes and fees charged by US Customs when importers bring goods into the country. They are assessed by government employees with US Customs at the port of entry, and are paid by the importer of record.</p><p>All goods entering the United States are subject to the same import procedure and the same tariff (tax) assessment, although every product has its own duty rate and some have a duty rate of zero!</p><p>Import taxes are the second largest source of revenue for the United States behind the Internal Revenue Service.</p><p>In addition to being revenue source, import taxes are used to control domestic market conditions and as a political tool. US Customs and the US International Trade Commission will raise and lower import taxes on particular goods to give domestic producers an edge over foreign imports. To exert political pressure, certain countries may be assigned a higher duty rate on their exports or may be embargoed (locked out) to prevent trade.</p><p>The primary criteria for import tariffs and taxes are:</p>Country of originCommodity typeIntended use<p>and are determined using the <a href="http://www.itintl.com/publications/us-harmonized-tariff-schedule">US Harmonized Tariff Schedule</a>, a yearly publication listing duty rates for a wide variety of import commodities. The USHTS also includes procedures and guidelines for determining import tax rates.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/what-are-import-taxes.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-37653234997153222162011-03-29T18:20:00.000-07:002011-03-29T18:20:00.648-07:00 <p>U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists are making sure that the bouquet of flowers you order for your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day is free from insects, pests and diseases that could harm the agricultural and floral industries in the United States.</p><p>Whether it’s rare orchids from Thailand or roses from Colombia, it is the job of the CBP agriculture specialist to carefully inspect them before they get to the florist, the grocery store or the sidewalk stand.<br>CBP agriculture specialists are specially trained in how to inspect cut flowers, plants and fresh herbs for signs of insects, pests or diseases. During the inspection, if an infested shipment is found, a sample of the insect, pest or disease is sent to a U.S. Department of Agriculture identifier.</p><p>If the sample is “actionable,” that is, not known to exist in the United States, or is an exotic invasive species detrimental to American agriculture, the shipment is ordered for fumigation, destruction, or reexport. If not actionable, the shipment is released to the importer or consignee.</p><p>The top three U.S. ports of entry that receive the most imported cut flowers are Miami, Los Angeles and New York. In a single shipment, CBP agriculture specialists working at any of these ports inspect samples representing up to 50 different varieties of cut flowers.</p><p>The top three imported cut flowers are roses, carnations and chrysanthemums. In 2005, more than 6,000 actionable insects or pests were intercepted at the port of Miami. The most common insects found were leaf miners, caterpillars and leaf bugs.</p><p>At international ports of entry, land borders, and international mail facilities, CBP agriculture specialists are the front line in the fight against the introduction of insects, pests and diseases into the United States.</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/cbp-ensures-pest-free-flowers-for-valentines-day.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-38289058787177471842011-03-29T14:25:00.000-07:002011-03-29T14:25:00.440-07:00 <p><strong>Question</strong></p><p>Do I have to pay import duty on items that have been exported from the United States that are being returned?</p><p><strong>Answer</strong></p><p>If you have an item that was previously resident in the United States, but for some reason was exported and is now being returned, be sure to inform US Customs about its status. Items previously exported are often considered <strong>duty free</strong>! This means that although you might have to pay a small entry fee, your goods will not be assessed taxes as a percentage of their value.</p><p>The logic behind this duty free status is simple – US Customs wants importers to pay an import tax at least once on items not made in the United States. That means that in general you can claim a duty free status under chapter 98 of the <a href="http://www.itintl.com/publications/us-harmonized-tariff-schedule">US Harmonized Tariff Schedule</a> on items that were either made in the USA, or had already been imported previously.</p><p><strong>When might this apply?</strong></p><p>This scenario might come into play if:</p>one of your products was exported, used in a foreign country, and is now being returned;you’re exporting something for repair;your item was exported as an exhibit for a trade show or similar;your item is a “tool of trade” used abroad temporarily.<p><strong>Gotcha’s to avoid:</strong></p>Just because your entry is duty free does not mean you can avoid filing import paperwork. You might also be subject to processing fees.If your item was “advanced in value” while overseas, you will probably owe duty on the value of the improvement. Example: you exported a car made in the US and had a French radio installed. When the car returns, you will owe duty on the value of the radio but not the car.Depending on the product, there may be a three year window between the exportation and duty free re importation of your item.<br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/import-duty-on-returned-items.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36119384479464308.post-36282973328120001032011-03-29T07:06:00.000-07:002011-03-29T07:06:00.325-07:00 <p>A foreign trade zone is a warehouse on US soil that acts like limbo for imported goods. If you have something that can’t come into the country, is just stopping off before being shipped to another country, or needs to operate outside of standard Customs procedures, a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) might be the way to go.</p><p>Example: I worked with a customer one time importing textiles (T-shirts) from China for sale in the US. As many textile importers will tell you, there is an import quota on Chinese textiles that caps the total amount they’re allowed to import into the US each year. Unfortunately, this importer’s agent failed to advise his customer that his category’s quota for the year had been filled. The end result was 50,000 embroidered T-shirts held at the port of Long Beach California that could not be cleared through Customs.</p><p>As you can probably guess, the solution I recommended was a Foreign Trade Zone. By warehousing the goods in an FTZ on US soil, the importer was able to avoid shipping his goods back to China (and all the costs that would incur) and was first in line when quota was re-opened the following year.</p><p>Not a totally pleasant experience for the importer, but a lot better than the alternative!</p><br /><p><a href="http://www.itintl.com/what-is-a-foreign-trade-zone.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Admin.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14807035892493160446noreply@blogger.com0