When it comes to importing, accuracy in your import entry is not only important, but also essential. One of the most critical components of this process is the proper classification of goods under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). At first glance, this might seem like a simple task. Depending on the product, it can be—but…
Tariffs, a tax on imports, have historically been used to support domestic industries and are primarily imposed for two reasons: to protect domestic industries by raising the cost of imported goods, and/or to generate revenue for the government. However, they can often also result in reduced trade, higher prices, and retaliation. A tariff is a…
In all the years of my career, I don’t think I have seen so many articles or news stories on tariffs as I have since Donald Trump won the election in November. Everyone is trying to speculate on what he is going to do and if he will follow through with his promises on increasing…
In today’s globalized world, it’s not uncommon for travelers to find themselves in a position where they need to transport commercial items across borders. Whether you’re a small business owner attending a trade show or a Fortune 500 company employee taking a spare replacement part to a customer, hand-carrying commercial items can present a unique…
Regulatory Blast – Drinking from a Firehose! The recent regulatory landscape is ever changing. In fact, I am finding it hard to stay up to date – and I am what some may say “experienced”! The other day, I told a colleague that I had not had an easy question to answer that week! In…
Complying with export regulations can be hard! Knowing where to find the regulations, how to interpret them and apply them to your business in a constantly dynamic and changing environment is challenging to say the least; not to mention that regulations are not static. This means what was okay last week, may not be okay…
In 1789 Benjamin Franklin wrote in a letter to Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, “… in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes”. Nothing rings truer than when you are trying to import merchandise from another country. If you don’t get all the elements correct for an import entry, you might…
Spoiler Alert – Similar but Different As a U.S. importer or exporter, we are required to comply with specific regulations. For defense articles, we are regulated by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), for dual-use and commercial items, we must comply with the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and for importing into the U.S., we…
The game of deception is a bad guy’s favorite game. The lengths of trouble that these people will go to in order to violate the law is extraordinary. Whether it is firearms, drugs or even money, their skills at trying to deceive U.S. Customs or BIS is quite astounding. I have witnessed some of their…
The U.S. government’s recent decision to increase Section 301 tariffs on certain Chinese imports is a significant development in the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China. While aimed at addressing long-standing trade issues, these tariffs also raise concerns for importers who rely on Chinese goods. Understanding Section 301 Tariffs Section 301 of…