HTSUS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States) classifications can be straightforward or not, as these two examples illustrate:

9506.62.4040 Footballs

9033.00.2000 Light-emitting diode (LED) backlights modules, the foregoing which are lighting sources that consist of one or more LEDs and one or more connectors and are mounted on a printed circuit or other similar substrate, and other passive components, whether or not combined with optical components or protective diodes, and used as backlights illumination for liquid crystal displays (LCDs)

A detailed classification includes HTS lookup, checking both chapter notes and GRI (General Rules of Interpretation), reviewing specs and/or other literature, and searching CROSS (Customs Rulings Online Search System). This is the procedural aspect of classification, but there is more. Most commodities require interpretation of the tariff language based on experience. In many cases subject matter experts need to be consulted. Finally, the process needs to be documented for future reference and parts lists updated.

I sometimes recommend a binding ruling to ensure accuracy in entries. Binding rulings provide uniformity across all ports of entry, and protect the importer from variations in interpretation from current and future CBP personnel. Rulings can be requested on valuation and country of origin as well as classification. The downside to obtaining a ruling is that you must follow it or be subject to penalties, although rulings can be appealed.

Rulings can be requested using the link shown here:

https://erulings.cbp.gov/s/

For help with binding rulings contact mitch@52.91.45.227.

A quick look at the BIS (Bureau of Industry and Security) Website shows that export enforcement activities have ramped up significantly. This means more fines and penalties for violations of the EAR.

Export compliance includes attention to detail, consistent procedures, up to date knowledge, and oversight. Due diligence is required for EEI filings, Schedule B and ECCN classification, Licensing entries, and Country of Origin determination. In spite of best efforts, mistakes will be made. In these cases a Voluntary Self-Disclosure is a smart move. Here is some info from the BIS website:

BIS encourages the submission of Voluntary Self Disclosures (VSDs) by parties who believe they may have violated the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). VSDs are an excellent indicator of a party’s intent to comply with U.S. export control requirements and may provide BIS important information on other ongoing violations. BIS carefully reviews VSDs received from disclosing parties to determine if violations of the EAR have occurred and to determine the appropriate corrective action when violations have taken place. Additional information regarding VSDs can be found in Part 764.5 of the EAR, or the enforcement section of our website www.bis.doc.gov.

Contact mitch@52.91.45.227 for assistance in submitting VSDs.

Freight forwarders are essential logistics service providers in international trade. The functions performed by forwarders make it possible for any business to export their products without a large staff. Forwarder selection criteria will vary according to the specific needs of the exporter. Among the most common factors are capacity, connections with airlines and ocean carriers, efficiency of local operations, customer service support, up to date technology, and of course, price. Obtaining rate quotes for large or first time moves is a valid practice. Rate shopping or basing transactions on price alone, however, makes it difficult to access necessary service factors. In recommending forwarders to clients I always emphasize the importance of maintaining a good business relationship with providers.

Forwarders can be a valuable partner in export compliance. It is important to note, however, that primary responsibility for compliance with the EAR falls on the “principal parties in interest” (PPI) in a transaction. Here is a link to BIS Freight Forwarder Guidance:

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/documents/bis-guidance-documents/oee/2528-freight-forwarder-guidance

Contact mitch@52.91.45.227 for export assistance.

I often hear from frustrated exporters about shipments “stuck” in customs. The shipments may include critical parts needed for an equipment or plant shutdown, expensive high tech components not generally carried in inventory, or medical instruments for hospitals. Delayed orders also mean delayed payments, which gets everyone’s attention.

The data used in customs entries comes directly from the commercial invoice for the transaction. All countries have different, and sometimes obscure, customs regulations. It is true, however, that most delays are caused by a few commercial invoice errors or omissions.

Commodity descriptions should answer the questions: What is it? What is it made of? What is it used for? Use plain language which can be understood by anyone. Avoid trade names, brand names, or part numbers in the description. These can be added below the description or to the packing list if needed. If using a harmonized code enter only the first 6 digits which are universal. All countries apply their own last 4 or 6 digits.

Value for customs may appear to be too low for the commodity being shipped. The customs agencies in the destination country need to make sure that duty rates are accurate and will hold up the shipment if in doubt. Make sure that your commercial invoice reflects the correct transaction value.

Importer of record (IOR) contact info is often lacking on the commercial invoice. Customs in the importing country will not contact the exporter if they have questions or issues. If they are unable to contact the IOR the shipment will go into storage. Make sure you include recipient name, address, phone number, and e mail address on your CI.

Contact mitch@52.91.45.227 for immediate assistance.

If you are scheduled to take the CBLE (Customs Broker License Exam) on October 26th make sure to check if your test site has a vaccine or mask mandate. Here is the notice from the CBP website.

https://www.cbp.gov/trade/programs-administration/customs-brokers/license-examination-notice-examination

NOTICE: Given the evolving COVID-19 situation examinees are responsible for checking the PDRI/PSI COVID-19 page (https://www.psionline.com/important-notice-update-concerning-covid-19-c…) regularly to find out if there is a vaccine or mask mandate at the registered testing site. It is THE EXAMINEE’S responsibility to stay up to date. CBP will NOT provide refunds for those who are not able to test as a result of being uninformed or noncompliant about the COVID-19 policy. CBP and PDRI/PSI recommend that the examinee checks the website regularly leading up to the exam, including the night before the CBLE.

Best of luck!

Last week’s post described common roadblocks to establishing Export Compliance Programs. In some cases exporters may be under pressure to put a program in place quickly with the focus on creating the ECP manual. This approach ignores the foundation needed for an effective program. The likely result will be a glossy manual that will sit on the shelf and have little impact on operations.

Compliance professionals know that an effective ECP must include C- level commitment and involvement, sufficient funding, well defined and documented responsibilities, on-going training, and internal audits. Weak ECPs lack some of these elements and are simply window dressing or paper programs.

In house compliance professionals are often given responsibility without authority. Further, they may be at mid or lower management levels or in the wrong chain of command. With or without a formal ECP, compliance professionals must have the authority to place holds on questionable exports without being overruled by sales, finance, or supply chain. Well written protocols for resolving issues and releasing holds require C-level or legal approval.

All of the above illustrates the importance of compliance independence. This may mean reporting to the CEO, COO, or legal department in order to remove pressure from other groups.

If your in house compliance professional is not truly independent hire a consultant!

Contact mitch@52.91.45.227 for immediate assistance.

Pete Mento

I’ve never steered clear of controversy – so, a serious question. Why is it that people do not want to become Customs Brokers anymore? Maybe its the silly test? Only around 2400 people take the exam every year, with around 10-20% passing.

Mitch Kostoulakos, LCB Ad Hoc Logistics LLC, Licensed Customs Broker, International Logistics Consultant

Do any other licensing exams have such low pass rates? Bar exam rates are much higher. I’m in favor of an exam with realistic chance of passing along with a continuing education requirement for brokers.