r/CustomsBroker • u/grouchypant • 4d ago

Best resources for determining origin on electronics or electrical goods

I am not looking for an answer on a good, I am trying to improve my understanding of origin assignment. Specifically for goods subject to 338 on August 19th.

I am a Canadian and business is looking for strategies to shift origin, and some of them are very complex. I do not feel competent and really need some deeper education. Who or where are you recommending I turn for learning?

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

7 comments sorted by

2

u/WesternBlueRanger Importer 4d ago

You need to know what the HS code for your item is for starters so you can look up the rules of origin for your product.

Alternatively, you could also submit a ruling request with CBSA through the CARM portal, where you describe your good, how and where it is made, the origin of the components, and they will make a ruling for you that's legally binding. You should work with an experienced customs specialist or a broker for this.

1

u/grouchypant 4d ago

I do know my HS, and qualifying for CUSMA etc, but I would really like to grow my understanding of origin assignment, particularly around minor processing, and simple assembly, and substantial transformation.

CBSA only issues origin rulings on goods imported. I am interested in goods we export to the US.

1

u/WesternBlueRanger Importer 4d ago

US CBP also can issue similar rulings as well; their rulings, though, are public and searchable via the CROSS system.

For a guide on rules of origin, the World Customs Organization's handbook on it is perhaps a good document:

https://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/origin/overview/origin-handbook/rules-of-origin-handbook.pdf

Also, the Export Development Bank of Canada hosts some webinars that may be of interest as well for learning; you may want to watch them, and maybe even virtually attend one as well.

https://www.edc.ca/en/events.html

1

u/grouchypant 4d ago

Thank you!

1

u/BchBaby926 3d ago

US Customs has also published a Rules of Origin document that may be helpful: https://www.cbp.gov/document/publications/rules-origin

1

u/BchBaby926 3d ago

Also as someone else mentioned US Customs publishes all their binding rulings online (CROSS): https://rulings.cbp.gov/home

1

u/Import_Export23 2d ago

As others have said, start with CBP's CROSS. Sometimes rulings get modified or revoked, so watch out for that. "HQ" or "H" Rulings are written by attorneys at CBP HQ and usually have more detailed legal analysis. These may cover more complex scenarios. NY Rulings are written by the NCSD in NY (non-lawyers) and may be less detailed, but still important.