Top 7 Things You Should Know About Customs Bonds in 2024

In the realm of international trade, a customs bond serves as a silent guardian, ensuring the smooth flow of goods across borders and protecting the interests of both governments and importers. For medium and large businesses in the US, understanding the role of customs bonds is crucial for successful and compliant import operations.

Put simply, a customs bond is a legal agreement between three parties:

1. Importer– is responsible for fulfilling import obligations
2. Surety– a company that guarantees payment to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) if the importer fails to meet their obligations
3. CBP– the US government agency responsible for regulating imports and collecting duties

Not all customs bonds are created equal. The specific type of bond you’ll need depends on the nature of your imports and business activities. Here are the common types to be aware of:

1. Single Entry Bond(SEB)– Covers a single import entry
2. Continuous Bond– Covers multiple import entries over 12 months, often the preferred choice for regular importers
3. Activity Code 1 Bond– Specifically for imports
4. Activity Code 3 Bond– Required for transporting goods under bond within the US
5. Activity Code 16 Bond– Mandatory security program for ocean-borne cargo shipments entering the United States
6. Note: ISF Bond and Entry Bond — are essential for smooth customs clearance and avoiding potential delays or penalties

Choosing the right type depends on your specific import frequency and needs. It’s always best to consult with a licensed customs broker such as Atlantic Project Cargo.

While customs bonds serve as a protective measure, it’s important to remember that they come with financial liability. If you fail to meet your import obligations, such as paying duties or complying with regulations, the surety may be required to pay CBP on your behalf. This could lead to claims against you or your business.

Generally, if your business imports goods:

• For most commercial shipments valued at $2,500 or more, a bond is required. However, exceptions exist for certain types of goods or frequent importers with continuous bonds
• Required for importers without another valid continuous bond covering ISF or using Single Transaction Bonds (STBs) for each ISF filing. The minimum amount is typically $50,000, but the port director can set a higher amount based on risk assessment

A customs bond is required to secure their release from CBP custody. This ensures that duties and taxes are paid, and regulations are followed.

Beyond financial obligations, customs bonds also play a role in ensuring compliance with various import regulations, such as:

• Intellectual property rights enforcement
• Anti-dumping and countervailing duties
• Food and drug safety standards
• Environmental protection measures
• Avoiding Penalties and Delays

Failure to obtain one when required can lead to significant penalties, delays in the release of your goods, and potential disruptions to your supply chain.

There are several pitfalls that you might have while interacting with CBP and bonds in general. Let’s have a look at the most common ones.

Ensuring Enough Coverage
One common challenge businesses face is underestimating the bond amount needed, leading to potential liability issues. It’s crucial to accurately calculate the value based on your expected import volume and value

Bond Approval Headaches and Streamlining the Process
Navigating the application and approval process can be time-consuming and complex, especially for businesses new to import regulations. Understanding the requirements and working with experienced partners can help streamline the process

Compliance Pitfalls: Staying on the Right Side of CBP
Staying compliant with CBP’s extensive regulations is essential to avoid bond claims and penalties. This includes timely payments, accurate documentation, and adherence to import procedures

While Atlantic Project Cargo offers customs brokerage services as part of our additional services, we are not primarily a customs broker. Our core expertise lies in freight forwarding: managing the logistics of international cargo shipments, including multimodal transportation, packing, and insurance.

Atlantic Project Cargo is a US-based freight forwarder specializing in the global shipping of heavy and oversized equipment. The company is a leading player in agricultural and construction equipment logistics, known for their expertise in:

• Multimodal transportation – Offering air, ocean, road, and rail solutions for your bulky cargo
• Bespoke door-to-door service – Catering to your specific needs with customized supply chain solutions
• Extensive network – With 11 warehouses across North America and over 100 vehicles, they ensure efficient storage and drayage
• Experienced team – Professionals handle heavy equipment shipping with a focus on safety and reliability
• Comprehensive services – Cover everything from export rigging and crating to HAZMAT transport and humanitarian aid logistics

Whether you’re shipping tractors to India or yachts to Europe, Atlantic Project Cargo can handle it all, making them a trusted partner for complex and oversized freight needs.

Partnering with Atlantic Project Cargo means gaining access to:

• Experienced professionals with extensive expertise in customs bonds and US import regulations
• Competitive rates due to our strong relationships with surety companies
• Time-saving solutions that streamline the bond procurement and compliance process
• Ongoing support and guidance to navigate the ever-changing world of customs regulations

Don’t let customs bonds become a stumbling block in your import operations. Contact Atlantic Project Cargo today for a free quote and unlock a seamless import experience. Our dedicated team is ready to be your trusted partner in navigating the maze of customs regulations and ensuring your business success.