On: March 3, 2025 By: Arnesh Roy
Don't be overwhelmed by the hundreds of international shipping terms. We've published a glossary of more than 250 trade terms used by importers and exporters. Bookmark this page and refer to it when you stumble across a word or acronym that has you stumped.
On: February 10, 2025 By: David Noah
Exporters often use Harmonized System (HS), Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and Schedule B codes interchangeably. They know these codes classify their products for international trade. While that's OK in casual conversation, it's important to know the differences when it comes to actual usage.
On: February 5, 2025 By: Sean Whitworth
The Importer Security Filing (ISF), also referred to as the 10+2 rule, is a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirement for ocean cargo imports into the United States. Learn who is responsible for the filing and what information must be included.
On: November 13, 2024 By: Kari Crane
If you import goods that contain paper, wood or plant-based materials, you may need to file a Lacey Act declaration. And later this year even more products will fall under the jurisdiction of the Lacey Act. Learn about its purpose, enforcement and how to meet your compliance responsibilities.
On: May 20, 2024 By: David Noah
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS or HTS) is a system used for importing and exporting to classify goods based on their material composition, product name and/or intended function. It is similar to Schedule B codes used for exports, but there are some key differences.
On: December 11, 2023 By: Kari Crane
Especially in the pharmaceutical, food and chemical industries, you might need to include a certificate of analysis (COA) with your export documents. Learn who needs one, how to create one and the essential information it should contain—along with the consequences of noncompliance.
On: September 13, 2023 By: Mitch Kostoulakos
Typically the commercial invoice value is used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for duty calculation. But when the invoice value cannot be used or the transaction isn't clear-cut, CBP uses an appraisement hierarchy to ensure a fair and consistent valuation of imported goods for customs purposes. Learn how to apply the appraisement hierarchy.
On: August 16, 2023 By: John Goodrich
As an importer, you are required to retain records relative to your importing for five years from the date of entry. Use this checklist to teach staff how to audit an import file, and keep it to demonstrate that you have done your audit work and are in compliance.
On: August 2, 2023 By: Arnesh Roy
Landed cost calculates the entire cost of importing or exporting your goods, including shipping, handling, customs duties and fees, and more, allowing you to be more strategic and better prepared. We explain what's included in landed cost, the role of Incoterms and how software can simplify the process.
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