Customs clearance done before the ship arrives.

What is included

• Importer setup: importer-of-record number, power of attorney, continuous or single-transaction bond
• Importer Security Filing (ISF) at least 24 hours before loading on the vessel
• Tariff classification review and duty estimate before departure
• Entry and entry summary in CBP's ACE system, filed ahead of arrival where the carrier data allows
• Partner-agency requirements: FDA prior notice and product codes, USDA/APHIS and Lacey Act declarations for wood and plant products, CPSC certificates for consumer goods, EPA and DOT declarations where they apply
• Payment of duties, taxes and fees on your behalf, with the CBP receipt in your file
• Exam and hold coordination if CBP selects your container
• Post-entry work: corrections, protests, binding ruling requests and duty drawback claims

Who it is for

Overseas manufacturers and brands acting as non-resident importers of record, U.S. buyers who want one party handling the border, and marketplace sellers moving from parcel-by-parcel shipping to consolidated imports.

What determines your duty

The 10-digit HTS classification, the country of origin, the customs value and any additional duties in force for that product and origin (for example Section 232 or Section 301 measures). Rates change; we confirm the amount at entry and show it as a separate line in every quote.

Timing

With documents in hand, the entry is prepared before arrival and compliant cargo is often released the day it is discharged. Exams, missing documents or partner-agency holds add days, which is why the document check happens before the vessel sails.

Licensing

Customs business is transacted by independent, CBP-licensed customs brokers working under a power of attorney from you. Ammerican coordinates the file, the timing and the hand-offs so you deal with one team.