The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) is a long-standing U.S. trade program aimed at fostering economic growth in developing countries while benefiting American businesses. By allowing duty-free imports of eligible products from designated countries, the GSP promotes economic stability abroad and provides U.S. companies with cost-effective access to essential goods. However, this program has been expired since December 31, 2020, leaving many traders in a … Read More
CBP Now Rejecting Vague Cargo Descriptions in ACAS
As international shipping continues to evolve, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has officially begun enforcing stricter rules on the accuracy of cargo descriptions in the Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) program. As of October 7, 2024, carriers and other stakeholders submitting ACAS data must ensure that the descriptions of their cargo are precise and transparent. Vague terms such as “gift,” “daily necessities,” “accessories,” “parts,” … Read More
Biden Cracks Down on Unsafe De Minimis Shipments
In a significant move to protect American consumers, workers, and businesses, the Biden-Harris administration has announced new measures to crack down on de minimis shipments—low-value imports that often bypass traditional scrutiny. These shipments, typically valued under $800, have been increasingly exploited to flood the U.S. market with unsafe or unfairly traded goods. The new actions focus on enhancing oversight and enforcing stricter trade practices to … Read More
CBP’s Role in Securing Cargo Imports
In the realm of international trade, the smooth flow of goods across borders is essential for economic growth and prosperity. At the forefront of ensuring the security and integrity of this process is the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Recent developments in the world of cargo importation have brought to light various trends and challenges that CBP is navigating to uphold its mandate effectively. … Read More
Is the MPF Increasing this year?
Q: Is the Merchandising Processing Fee (MPF) Increasing in 2021? A: Yes, U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP), posted notice of the below-noted increase(s) in user fees, which are effective October 1, 2023. CBP will increase Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) ‘User Fees’ by 26.670 percent to adjust for inflation in the fiscal year 2024. New Rates Include: MPF Minimum: $31.67 (previously $27.75) MPF … Read More
5 Reasons Why You Should Consider ACH!
Automated Clearinghouse (ACH) is a program available for those companies that import into the US as an option to pay duties to US Customs electronically. We believe that this program is essential and beneficial to importers! Here are a few reasons why… Having duties debited directly from your bank account allows you to better control your cash flow and have better visibility on the … Read More
What is the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act of 2021 (UFLPA)?
Customs Q&A of the Month: With Licensed Customs Brokerage, Jessica Parks Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act: What you should know U.S. Customs and Border Protection has put the UFLPA in place which specifically bans the import of goods resulting from forced labor in China – specifically in the Xinjiang area of China. In 2017, the Chinese government, in an act of Genocide as described by … Read More
When does the FDA Renewal process for Food Facilities begin?
Listen to this article GLC INC. · When does the FDA Renewal process for Food Facilities begin? Customs Q&A of the Month: When does the FDA Renewal process for Food Facilities begin? With Licensed Customs Broker, Jessica Parks On October 1, the FDA will open its portal where food facilities must renew their food facility registrations. The window for renewal will run from October … Read More
What are the new user fees as advised by US Customs?
Listen to this article: GLC INC. · What are the new user fees as advised by US Customs? Customs Question of the Month with our Licensed Customs Broker, Jessica Parks. What are the new user fees as advised by US Customs? US Customs has advised of the below increases in user fees, which will be effective October 1, 2022. MPF Minimum: $29.66 (previously $27.75) MPF Maximum: … Read More
What is an ISF or 10 + 2? #brokerageterms
Listen to the article here: GLC INC. · What Is An ISF 10+2 ISF or 10 + 2 or Importer Security Filing How can GLC Help with an ISF? GLC is a licensed customs broker so we are able to electronically submit specific advance cargo information to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency (CBP). This information is known as an ISF (Importer Security Filing) … Read More