Argents’ history is rooted in customs brokerage and at no time has there been greater importance placed upon the role of the agency in the facilitation of legitimate trade. Argents works with air, sea and land ports of entry as well as multiple Centers of Excellence and Expertise (CEE’s) to speed merchandise through Customs as well as any of the dozens of participating government agencies exercising jurisdiction over imported goods.
Liz Deaton, Argents’ Director of Import Operations has been with the company since 2003, but her experience in the industry predates that an additional decade. Her knowledge of air and ocean processes as well as the regulations means that Argents’ customers have some who understands both the practical and theoretical, marrying the two to successfully keep cargo moving through supply chains. Her best advice to new companies starting out is to proactively develop and implement a compliance plan – don’t wait for CBP to find it as a deficiency because the time and cost of remediating will eclipse the savings of putting it in place early.
The proper classification and valuation of merchandise is the first and most important step in ensuring an uninterrupted flow of goods from manufacturer to final consignee.
Whether requesting a binding ruling, researching and determining classification using the Explanatory Notes and General Rules of Interpretation or prevailing on a protest, Argents invests the time during client onboarding to ensure compliance and identify risk or exposure from previous transactions.
As an experienced customs broker, Argents is well-versed in the regulations governing valuation at the time of entry and can work with clients to determine transaction or computed value or whether or not there are parties between the buyer and seller adding value that can legitimately be removed to work backwards to a first sale price.
The classification of merchandise requires an engineer’s knowledge of product specifications, a salesperson’s awareness of its end use and a qualified customs broker’s knowledge of potential exposure for marking, antidumping, trade remedy or required PGA release.
Once a classification has been determined, there are limited options to avoid paying the proscribed duties that are due. Whether ad valorem based on value and classification or subject to flat trade remedy percentages, presenting the lowest permitted entered value is an importer’s best tool to keep their landed costs as low as possible.
Customs and Border Protection and dozens of federal agencies have jurisdiction over what can and cannot be entered into the commerce of the United States. Whether for reasons of protecting American agriculture, protecting American consumers or preventing criminal organizations from profiting on forced labor or counterfeit goods, trust Argents to secure the release of your imported goods.
The increasing focus placed on product safety for pandemic medical items and the prevention of imports of products made with forced labor mean that importers increasingly need to work more closely with their customs broker to safely navigate the increasing layers of scrutiny on foreign-made products.
Section 301 duties imposed on exports from China and trade remedy duties on products of European countries and elsewhere mean that typical commercial shipments bound for the United States for warehousing and fulfillment could be subject to significant double-digit duties upon arrival.
A legitimate exception is made for shipments bound for named consumers when shipped to the United States. The de minimis exception of up to $800 per person, per day, is how many online marketplaces and e-Commerce sellers keep their prices low, remain competitive and stave off having their goods copied and private branded by larger competitors.
Section 321 entries are most often utilized when there is a direct sale between a foreign seller and a US buyer. Argents can collect consolidated shipments at origin, present them to Customs upon arrival and then inject them into the final mile delivery provider of the client’s choosing.
A Type 86 entry is identical to a Section 321 entry, but with more data, including a third party seller if one exists. Shipments that require the release of a participating government agency like FDA must be filed as a Type 86, even if below the de minimus value threshold.
The Consumer Products Safety Commission’s (CPSC) stringent requirements for children’s products underscore the importance of compliance in the import process. Importers must stay informed about these regulations to avoid disruptions and ensure the safety of imported goods. By understanding and adhering to CPSC standards, importers can handle the complex regulatory landscape, ensuring the seamless entry… Read more »
When importing goods into the United States, businesses face a range of complexities, particularly when understanding and managing import duties. Among the most significant challenges are those associated with Anti-Dumping (AD) and Countervailing Duties (CVD). These duties, which aim to protect U.S. industries from unfair foreign competition, can result in substantial financial risks for importers…. Read more »
Utilizing warehouse space efficiently maximizes operational efficiency and reduces logistics costs. At Argents Express, we understand that optimizing warehouse space isn’t just about storage; it’s about enhancing the entire supply chain and customizing solutions for every client. Our innovative solutions can transform your warehouse operations and fulfillment / distribution offerings. Creative Solutions for Warehouse Optimization… Read more »
What You Need to Know The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently announced the implementation of Phase VII of the Lacey Act provisions, set to begin on December 1, 2024. This new phase requires Lacey Act declarations for an expanded range of imported plant products, including furniture, additional essential… Read more »
In the global marketplace, cross-border eCommerce presents an incredible opportunity for businesses to expand their reach and tap into new markets. However, this opportunity comes with its own set of challenges. At Argents Express, we specialize in managing the complex logistics and customs clearance processes that come with international shipping. Our expertise ensures that your… Read more »
At Argents Express, we understand that choosing the right logistics partner can make all the difference in optimizing your supply chain. Located near the strategically advantageous Port of Charleston, we offer unparalleled warehousing, distribution, fulfillment, and ocean freight services designed to meet the dynamic needs of today’s shippers and retailers. Charleston: A Premier Logistics Hub… Read more »
As we reach the midpoint of the year, it’s time to reflect on the major 2024 eCommerce trends that have shaped the logistics industry. At Argents Express, staying ahead of these trends is essential to providing our clients with innovative and efficient logistics solutions. Here’s a look at the top eCommerce logistics trends of 2024…… Read more »
