A Chamber of Commerce is a business network or organization whose goal is to further the interests of businesses. In the context of international shipping, they play a quasi-governmental role. They are the trusted third party that validates the “nationality” of your goods.
While they are private organizations (not government agencies), customs authorities worldwide recognize their stamp as the official verification of origin.
Role in Documentation
As discussed with the Certificate of Origin (COO), the Chamber is the entity that stamps the paper. But why them? International treaties rely on a system of trust. Foreign customs cannot verify the signature of every factory manager in America. But they can verify the signature of the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber acts as a guarantor. They hold your company’s signature on file (via a notarized letter of waiver/affidavit). When you submit a document, they check it against their records to ensure you are a legitimate business authorized to export.
Local vs. National Chambers
- Local chambers: Your town or county chamber (e.g., The Peoria Chamber of Commerce). These are great for speed and personal relationships. You can drive over and get a stamp in 20 minutes.
- National/digital chambers: Organizations like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce or the American World Trade Chamber of Commerce. These are often used for electronic certificates (eCO). Some strict countries (like in the Middle East) may only accept stamps from recognized major chambers, not small local ones.
Advocacy and Trade Facilitation
Beyond stamping papers, Chambers are vital resources for exporters.
- Trade missions: They organize trips to foreign markets to introduce US manufacturers to potential buyers.
- Regulatory updates: If a new tariff is imposed on US steel or machinery, the Chamber is usually the first to interpret how it affects local businesses.
- ATA carnets: As mentioned earlier, the US Council for International Business (a chamber organization) manages the Carnet system for temporary imports.