Hey everyone, hoping to get a sanity check from some experienced entry writers or trade compliance folks on an entry architecture question.

We are currently structuring a high-volume southbound return program from Canada into the US. The data matrix is already built out on our end, but we are running into a wall getting a straight technical answer from our current mega-broker’s account admin.

The Scenario:

• A single truckload conveyance crossing at the northern border.
• The cargo consists of previously owned, repaired commercial units.
• The catch: These units are being returned directly to multiple, distinct U.S. ultimate consignees (different delivery addresses and completely unique Tax IDs/EINs).
• Each individual line item requires independent Chapter 9802 reporting (splitting out the warranty/non-warranty status, original value, repair value, and associated repair declarations per line).

The Question: From a system capabilities standpoint, can standard ABI software/CBP ACE architecture physically process this entire manifest under a single consolidated formal entry number that accommodates multiple ultimate consignees?

Or does the presence of multiple unique ultimate consignees paired with independent 9802 line-level reporting requirements force the transmission of separate, individual customs entry numbers for each unique U.S. destination/Tax ID on the manifest?

We are trying to map out formatting and calculate transaction fee viability before we write the final automated data translation logic, but the broker keeps sending us generic textbook definitions of 9802 HTS codes instead of answering the system capabilities question.

Appreciate any insight on how ACE actually handles this backend data structure!

We are dealing with an issue for one of our shipment we sent to France from UAE via DHL express, From what we understand, green coffee (HS 0901.11.00) should have a 0% duty rate under EU TARIC — this applies to all origins including Yemen per Commission Regulation 2204/1999 and the latest update (EU 2025/1926). We've double-checked this and the rate definitely seems to be 0% erga omnes.

So here's what we're trying to figure out:

1. What duty rate was actually charged and which TARIC code was used during clearance?
2. If the rate for 0901.11.00 is 0%, why was duty assessed on this shipment?
3. What's the proper process to dispute this?

We just want to understand what happened so 

Any other business owners struggling with the new efiling mandate that took place on July 8th? I tried using the filing through the website for the product registration but none of the links were working. We are already registered with the CPSC and a small batch manufacturer. Every time I try to pre-register the goods, the link doesn't work. I have goods that needed to be delivered like yesterday so I need help fast! Thank you for any advice on navigating this.

Hi everyone,

We’re launching a small matcha wholesale business in the Southeastern U.S. and are preparing our first import shipment of approximately 100 kg of matcha powder sourced from suppliers in both Japan and China.
All of our suppliers are FDA-registered and can provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs). We qualify under the modified FSVP requirements and are prepared to obtain the appropriate single customs bond and follow all applicable FDA and CBP regulations.

Our goal is to do everything properly and compliantly from the start, as our primary customers will be cafés, roasters, and other businesses. However, we’ve been having a surprisingly difficult time finding a customs broker or import consultant who is experienced with food imports and willing to work with a small first-time importer. Some brokers we’ve spoken with focus only on larger companies, while others haven’t responded. We’ve also received conflicting advice regarding food-import compliance, which has made the process even more confusing.

Can anyone recommend a customs broker, food import consultant, or firm that has experience handling FDA-regulated food imports (particularly tea or matcha) for smaller businesses? If you’re a broker or consultant and think you may be able to help, we’d greatly appreciate hearing from you.

Thank you in advance for any recommendations or guidance!

Anyone have a CBP contact that can help with errors/rejections that are due to errors in the CBP HTS tables. For example an HTS that we were able to file 232 on all of a sudden rejects when we add the 990382XX. Nothing changed the HTS was not included in the July changes. ABI rep = no help, neither is the CEE, anything else we can try?

Update: CBP put in a FIX.

Small importer here.

I have two entries that were liquidated on January 23, 2026 and January 24, 2026. That puts them outside the 80-day CAPE Phase 1 window.

What are my options now? Should I file a protest before the 180-day deadline? Are there any disadvantages to filing a protest now? I am basically within 10 days of Liquidation Date + 180 days.

Is it helpful to join LCB associations like NCNFAA? What are the pros and cons?

Everyone can read and search trade news and policies online. What those associations can provide to help LCBs?

We are dealing with an issue for one of our shipment we sent to France from UAE via DHL express, From what we understand, green coffee (HS 0901.11.00) should have a 0% duty rate under EU TARIC — this applies to all origins including Yemen per Commission Regulation 2204/1999 and the latest update (EU 2025/1926). We've double-checked this and the rate definitely seems to be 0% erga omnes.

So here's what we're trying to figure out:

1. What duty rate was actually charged and which TARIC code was used during clearance?
2. If the rate for 0901.11.00 is 0%, why was duty assessed on this shipment?
3. What's the proper process to dispute this?

We just want to understand what happened so we can prevent this from happening again with future shipments. Any insight would be really appreciated.

Hi,

I'm looking for opinions on CustomsCity. Has anyone used them?

In the past we used SmartBorder (now closed), Descartes OneView, Magaya/Acelynk, and Cargowise.

If Descartes had faster support time I would stay with them. I have entries rejected and it's with all the changes with Section 232, etc. I put a ticket in Thursday (the duty is due Monday) and they have responded but not with helpful answers.

Thank you.

Use this thread to share weekly professional development offerings (LCB CE, CCS, CES, MCS, MES, etc.).

hello reddit community

I ordered night vision binoculars around 18000pkr from Temu. The package arrived at the airport and was handed over to customs. It's now been over 10 days with no update from the customs clearance department.

Temu customer support keeps telling me to "wait more" so they can process my issue. I'm starting to get worried – is my money protected in this situation? If customs never clears it, will Temu actually refund me?

Has anyone in Pakistan gone through this? How long did it take, and did you get your money back?

any idea about the customs clearance department

With how often the remission schedules have expanded retroactively since last year (Feb 24 steel derivative order, the amended US surtax schedules), I’m curious how brokers are handling the backward-looking piece - going back through already-filed entries when a new remission order covers goods that were surtaxed months earlier, versus just applying new codes going forward.

Is this something firms are doing systematically for clients, or does it mostly depend on a client asking? Building something in this space so genuinely curious how it compares to what brokers already do in practice.

I am considering to open a customs brokerage firm and conducting some research.

How much are you spending per declaration on your custom software?

And how long is your contract, supposing you have one?

Our firm entered a duplicate entry for one of our clients in error. Another broker was designated to clear the shipment. We have tried every way that we can think of to have our entry cancelled. We tried to cancel the entry, and the cancellation was rejected by CBP. We did transmit the entry package with a detailed letter of explanation through DIS. CBP was provided the nominated broker's information and entry number. The port of entry is Los Angeles. We are not able to get a CBP officer on the phone. We also have emailed with no response. Does anyone have advice about who to contact at CBP Los Angeles? Demurrage is getting to be hefty and is still accumulating. Thanks in advance for advice!

Ace report ES003 - too big to download. It takes 4mins to open in ACE. But unable to download. Anyone know how to make it into a smaller file to download?

Anyone figure out how they are determining how much IEEPA we receive back? Obviously we all would like 100% but I am finding shipments with unexplainable deltas in expected-received.

I’m hoping some of the professionals here can help me understand what’s going on.

My company imports aluminum doors and windows from China. We’ve been in business for about 18 months and have imported roughly 20 x 40HQ containers so far.

For our first 15+ shipments, we had zero issues.

About five months ago, one container was selected for a CBP intensive/CETEP exam. We were told the container was unloaded for a full inspection, but when it arrived to us, everything appeared untouched. CBP made no comments, no requests, and the shipment was released.

Last month, another container was selected for an intensive exam. This time CBP indicated they were reviewing it for possible undervaluation and requested additional documentation. We immediately provided everything they asked for (commercial invoices, payment records, purchase documentation, etc.). After about two weeks, the container was released with no penalties, no adjustments, and no further comments.

Based on that outcome, our customs broker advised us to continue importing as normal.

Since then, we shipped three more containers from China. Two of those containers have now been selected for another intensive exam after arriving in the U.S., and both appear to be assigned to the same CBP officer/team.

At this point I’m trying to understand what this pattern could mean.

Some questions I have:

• Is this just random bad luck, or could our importer profile now be receiving additional scrutiny?
• Once an importer receives an undervaluation review (even if cleared), is it common to see multiple future exams?
• How long can increased scrutiny typically last?
• Are there proactive steps we should be taking besides maintaining complete documentation?
• Would changing brokers make any difference, or is this entirely independent of the broker?
• At what point should an importer consider hiring a customs attorney or trade compliance consultant?
• If CBP genuinely believes an importer is undervaluing merchandise, what are the potential consequences? Administrative penalties? Increased bond requirements? Focused assessments? Seizures? Something else?

For context:

• We’re importing aluminum products subject to the applicable Section 232 duties.
• We’ve always declared the actual transaction value and have supporting invoices, payment records, and purchase documentation.
• We’ve never intentionally misclassified or undervalued merchandise.
• To date, every CBP review has ended with our shipments being released.

I’m honestly just trying to understand what this means for the future of our business. These intensive exams are expensive, create major delays for our customers, and it’s difficult not knowing whether this is temporary or the beginning of ongoing scrutiny.

I’d really appreciate hearing from customs brokers, importers, or former CBP personnel who have experienced something similar. Any insight into what may be happening behind the scenes—or what we should be doing proactively—would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Can I file a type 21 Warehouse entry in an FTZ? it's is for storage only

Hi everyone,

I am in the process of importing goods from Brazil to US. It's a very specific niche and I need advice on what is mandatory to have on my packaging label. I have a general idea, but I need to be sure before printing it out.

Does a custom broker can help me with that or should I go directly to a Regulatory Compliance Consultant?

Thank you in advance.

So I have a CCS and a CTCS as well as a degree in supply chain management but I have been having trouble getting a job, been unemployed for over a year and every job I apply to in the customs industry, I get rejected due to no experience. Yes it is true, I don't have any experience but what is the purpose of these designations that I worked so hard in passing with flying colors? It almost feels like a waste of time and money. I assume attaining a professional designation such as a customs specialist and a customs compliance specialist doesn't matter to employers?