January 26th 2010 marked the official implementation of Importer Security Filing. Beginning this day all importers filing an ISF on their ocean cargo must have appropriate new bonding in place.
If…
1) You have a shipment entering the U.S. via ocean goods in the next year, and
2) You import using single transaction Customs bonds
…now is the time for you to take a look into purchasing a continuous import bond.
Multiple Single Entry Bonds or 1 Continuous Bond?
In the past, it was more economical for low volume importers to purchase single entry bonds. However, U.S. Customs is now requiring that if a single transaction bond is used to clear the entry an additional single entry ISF bond to be place. This increases the costs of single entry transactions; however, TRG has the solution.
Since 1991, TRG has provided continuous Customs bonds direct to importers. The continuous import bond will cover every shipment over a one year period (both entry and ISF). Call us today to see how you can save.
Applying for Continuous bond is easy.
Send TRG a completed 1 page application and Power of Attorney form,
TRG will contact you with any changes needed on the application,
TRG will place the bond with U.S. Customs,
You will provide your broker (or whomever clears your entries) with the new bond number.
It’s really that simple to decrease your import costs! Don’t pay the high costs of single entry bonds. If you are interested in obtain a continuous bond, please contact TRG or apply online today!
Showing posts with label Importer Security Filing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Importer Security Filing. Show all posts
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Meet Trade Innovations l Supply Chain Security Consultants
Trade Innovations, a partner of TRG Direct, was launched as a practical alternative to traditional consulting and law firms. Since the company's founding in 2005, they have steadily built a portfolio of satisfied clients. Through carefully crafted strategic alliances they have the ability to provide world class service in the areas of customs and import compliance consulting, export compliance, training, C-TPAT programs, surety bonds, direct-filing of customs entries and Importer Security Filings (ISFs), marine insurance, and carnets.
To commemorate the company's 5 year anniversary Trade Innovations recently refreshed and updated their web site (www.tradeinnovations.com). In addition to their Blog, they added all of today's social media links so now you can follow Trade Innovations on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Make sure to visit them online and sign up for their monthly newsletter. It is full of insightful information.
To commemorate the company's 5 year anniversary Trade Innovations recently refreshed and updated their web site (www.tradeinnovations.com). In addition to their Blog, they added all of today's social media links so now you can follow Trade Innovations on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Make sure to visit them online and sign up for their monthly newsletter. It is full of insightful information.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Do you have multiple manufactures or suppliers on an Importer Security Filing?
A common questions among, new ISF direct filers is, "what do I do if I have multiple manufacturers, ship to parties, etc on one ocean shipment?"
The initial thought from most importers is that they will need to file multiple ISFs. However, this is not the case. The direct filer will actually be able to file just one ISF and enter the multiple parties. TRG Direct makes this very simple.
If you are using the ISF Excel template and uploading the document to TRG Direct, you will simply insert as many extra rows in the template as needed. If you are entering the information manually into the system you will simply choose add another party and a new field will appear.
Fill out the ISF and file as you normally do and you are all taken care of!
The initial thought from most importers is that they will need to file multiple ISFs. However, this is not the case. The direct filer will actually be able to file just one ISF and enter the multiple parties. TRG Direct makes this very simple.
If you are using the ISF Excel template and uploading the document to TRG Direct, you will simply insert as many extra rows in the template as needed. If you are entering the information manually into the system you will simply choose add another party and a new field will appear.
Fill out the ISF and file as you normally do and you are all taken care of!
Monday, February 22, 2010
ISF Day of Reckoning Arrives
ISF Day of Reckoning Arrives
It's safe to say that if your company is not filing the mandatory Importer Security Filing (ISF) for all maritime cargo bound for the US by today, that you can expect difficulty getting your shipment(s) released upon arrival in the U.S.
For more information on ISF filing and the most comprehensive easy-to-use system for filing ISF's and customs entries at a savings of up to 90% off ordinary costs please contact TRG Direct.
TRG Direct President Michael Laden has been very active attending CBP ISF Public Outreach Sessions at various venues around the country and in Europe. TRG Direct has been instrumental in working closely with CBP to ensure that all problematic system issues are addressed and remedied during this critical non-enforcement phase.
It's safe to say that if your company is not filing the mandatory Importer Security Filing (ISF) for all maritime cargo bound for the US by today, that you can expect difficulty getting your shipment(s) released upon arrival in the U.S.
For more information on ISF filing and the most comprehensive easy-to-use system for filing ISF's and customs entries at a savings of up to 90% off ordinary costs please contact TRG Direct.
TRG Direct President Michael Laden has been very active attending CBP ISF Public Outreach Sessions at various venues around the country and in Europe. TRG Direct has been instrumental in working closely with CBP to ensure that all problematic system issues are addressed and remedied during this critical non-enforcement phase.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Our ISF Countdown Comes to an End
Wow! It has really happended! The long awaited (highly dreaded (not by TRG)) ISF regulation has come into effect. This past Tuesday Customs announced the passing of Importer Security Filing.
However, we still have time get you up and filing! GOOD NEWS!
As Rich DiNucci, Director of the Secure Freight Initiative at CBP has repeatedly stated during the Importer Security Filing (ISF) Public Outreach Sessions, "It's not about the penalties, it's about the data...we simply want compliance". In keeping with this level-headed approach to implementation, CBP has announced that the unenforced period will technically end today. However, importers with accuracy or timeliness issues can expect a Warning Letter or "light touch" from CBP for at least the next ninety (90) days. In other words, if your company is currently making a best faith effort to get the ISF filed accurately and timely, you need not worry about receiving a $5,000 penalty...for now.
However, we still have time get you up and filing! GOOD NEWS!
As Rich DiNucci, Director of the Secure Freight Initiative at CBP has repeatedly stated during the Importer Security Filing (ISF) Public Outreach Sessions, "It's not about the penalties, it's about the data...we simply want compliance". In keeping with this level-headed approach to implementation, CBP has announced that the unenforced period will technically end today. However, importers with accuracy or timeliness issues can expect a Warning Letter or "light touch" from CBP for at least the next ninety (90) days. In other words, if your company is currently making a best faith effort to get the ISF filed accurately and timely, you need not worry about receiving a $5,000 penalty...for now.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Richard DiNucci Attends TRG Direct User Group
Richard DiNucci, Secure Trade Initiative Director, attended TRG Direct’s self filing user group webinar presenting timely information on Importer Security Filing (10+2 ISF). The presentation by Mr. DiNucci provided importers with information about the current status of ISF filing and what importers can expect when ISF compliance begins on January 26, 2010. Importer Security Filing requires both importers and carriers to submit additional information pertaining to cargo for import into the United States, to Customers and Border Protection (CBP) 24 hours prior to the goods being laded for the U.S.
Mr. DiNucci has been traveling throughout the U.S. and various overseas locations as part of CBP’s Importer Security Filing Trade Outreach Program. Mike Laden, President of TRG Direct, took part in many of these sessions as a guest speaker. Between Rich and Mike, as well as other ISF trade data collected by CBP over the past year, TRG Direct’s user group was presented with an optimistic overview of the self filer’s progress to date. www.trgdirect.com
Currently, 4 million ISFs have been filed by 80-90% of U.S. importers. Around 10-20% of importers have not started filing. Between 35,000-40,000 ISFs are filed daily with timeliness averaging at 60%.
Although filing numbers are high, challenges still exist. The Duplicate ISF Transaction rejected message recently went up 3%, meaning more than one ISF is filed with the same bill of lading. This may be due to new filers or because of the many updates in the CBP system. CBP updated their system to only accept data in a particular format.
Mr. DiNucci said that in order to see how CBP will treat enforcement, importers can refer to the mitigation guidelines. “CBP is not in it to generate revenue,” Mr. DiNucci said, “but to get the data.” Mr. DiNucci said that importers who are already filing can expect a light touch from CBP due to the “relaxed enforcement” approach CBP will take. CBP will be harder on those importers who haven’t been filing.
“This meeting with Rich could not have come at a better time for our self filers. Luckily for those filers still completing their sign up with TRG Direct, we were able to record the presentation and have posted it online for download,” stated Gregg Cummings, National Sales Manager. www.trgdirect.com/isf_usergroup.aspx
Mr. DiNucci touched on the latest progress reports issued in early January. Timeliness was a large issue for many importers, and this may be because CBP measured timeliness differently in these reports. This time, CBP measured timeliness based on departure date; they expected that timeliness rates would improve, but unfortunately, progress reports worsened for many importers. Mr. DiNucci believes most importers are filing on time, and he said CBP will not see timeliness generating enforcement concerns until their measurement is refined. “The key point,” Mr. DiNucci said, “is to refine your system and take a deep breath; CBP will not say importers are not compliant based on timeliness.”
According to Mr. DiNucci, CBP appreciates the fact that importers are preparing for enforcement. They understand that importers are doing all the work, and CBP appreciates it. Mr. DiNucci assures importers that CBP knows importers will have issues in the beginning, but as long as they strive to provide the data to Customs, they don’t have to worry about enforcement.
“We’ll come down when we need to come down hard on those who don’t want to comply,” Mr. DiNucci said. “We don’t expect perfection at first. Just keep filing, take a deep breath, and you’ll be fine.”
Mr. DiNucci has been traveling throughout the U.S. and various overseas locations as part of CBP’s Importer Security Filing Trade Outreach Program. Mike Laden, President of TRG Direct, took part in many of these sessions as a guest speaker. Between Rich and Mike, as well as other ISF trade data collected by CBP over the past year, TRG Direct’s user group was presented with an optimistic overview of the self filer’s progress to date. www.trgdirect.com
Currently, 4 million ISFs have been filed by 80-90% of U.S. importers. Around 10-20% of importers have not started filing. Between 35,000-40,000 ISFs are filed daily with timeliness averaging at 60%.
Although filing numbers are high, challenges still exist. The Duplicate ISF Transaction rejected message recently went up 3%, meaning more than one ISF is filed with the same bill of lading. This may be due to new filers or because of the many updates in the CBP system. CBP updated their system to only accept data in a particular format.
Mr. DiNucci said that in order to see how CBP will treat enforcement, importers can refer to the mitigation guidelines. “CBP is not in it to generate revenue,” Mr. DiNucci said, “but to get the data.” Mr. DiNucci said that importers who are already filing can expect a light touch from CBP due to the “relaxed enforcement” approach CBP will take. CBP will be harder on those importers who haven’t been filing.
“This meeting with Rich could not have come at a better time for our self filers. Luckily for those filers still completing their sign up with TRG Direct, we were able to record the presentation and have posted it online for download,” stated Gregg Cummings, National Sales Manager. www.trgdirect.com/isf_usergroup.aspx
Mr. DiNucci touched on the latest progress reports issued in early January. Timeliness was a large issue for many importers, and this may be because CBP measured timeliness differently in these reports. This time, CBP measured timeliness based on departure date; they expected that timeliness rates would improve, but unfortunately, progress reports worsened for many importers. Mr. DiNucci believes most importers are filing on time, and he said CBP will not see timeliness generating enforcement concerns until their measurement is refined. “The key point,” Mr. DiNucci said, “is to refine your system and take a deep breath; CBP will not say importers are not compliant based on timeliness.”
According to Mr. DiNucci, CBP appreciates the fact that importers are preparing for enforcement. They understand that importers are doing all the work, and CBP appreciates it. Mr. DiNucci assures importers that CBP knows importers will have issues in the beginning, but as long as they strive to provide the data to Customs, they don’t have to worry about enforcement.
“We’ll come down when we need to come down hard on those who don’t want to comply,” Mr. DiNucci said. “We don’t expect perfection at first. Just keep filing, take a deep breath, and you’ll be fine.”
Friday, January 8, 2010
The ISF Honeymoon Comes to an End Jan 26th
The ISF Honeymoon Comes to an End January 26th
The honeymoon phase of Importer Security Filing (ISF) will be over in less than one month. On January 26th, 2010, U.S. importers of ocean cargo will be faced with a harsh reality. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will begin issuing fines and penalties for importers who fail to file their ISFs, file late, fail to update, or fail to delete their ISFs. Penalty amounts will be $5,000 per Importer Security Filing transmission and can be as much as $10,000 per ISF.
Was your honeymoon successful? Are you ISF ready?
At this time, importers need to be very familiar with their progress reports. Customs issues these monthly progress reports to whoever is filing the ISFs in order to let them know how they are doing. The reports inform the filer about how often their ISFs are accepted or rejected as well as how timely they are filing. If you haven’t seen your progress report, you need to ask whoever is filing immediately. Remember: it is not the filer that has to pay the fine; the importer is liable for their ISFs.In order to avoid paying these stiff fines, many importers have brought their policies and procedures in house to ensure they know that they are filing timely and accurately.
The ISF consists of 10 very easily attainable data elements. Once the importer begins receiving the information, the filing is easy.It's time to create a successful ISF program.TRG Direct, an ISF and customs entry self filing provider, allows importers to file online in seconds using templates and excel uploads. Also, since the ISF is not considered customs business, many importers allow their vendors to access the ISFs under their own user names and input information, which means the information never has to go through a third party.If you haven’t started filing, don’t stress: you still have a month to practice filing penalty-free. However, you need to start filing now. CBP has stated that the most important thing importers can do before compliance begins is to create a history with CBP by filing their ISFs. By doing so, importers may be able to mitigate any fines and penalties assessed at the beginning of compliance. Importers who have not been filing will be the first ones paying these fines.If you have been filing, you need to make sure your policies and procedures are in place and that all filings are timely and accurate. Check your progress report to see how well you’re doing. And remember, by filing yourself, you have complete control over filing timely and accurately.
The honeymoon phase of Importer Security Filing (ISF) will be over in less than one month. On January 26th, 2010, U.S. importers of ocean cargo will be faced with a harsh reality. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will begin issuing fines and penalties for importers who fail to file their ISFs, file late, fail to update, or fail to delete their ISFs. Penalty amounts will be $5,000 per Importer Security Filing transmission and can be as much as $10,000 per ISF.
Was your honeymoon successful? Are you ISF ready?
At this time, importers need to be very familiar with their progress reports. Customs issues these monthly progress reports to whoever is filing the ISFs in order to let them know how they are doing. The reports inform the filer about how often their ISFs are accepted or rejected as well as how timely they are filing. If you haven’t seen your progress report, you need to ask whoever is filing immediately. Remember: it is not the filer that has to pay the fine; the importer is liable for their ISFs.In order to avoid paying these stiff fines, many importers have brought their policies and procedures in house to ensure they know that they are filing timely and accurately.
The ISF consists of 10 very easily attainable data elements. Once the importer begins receiving the information, the filing is easy.It's time to create a successful ISF program.TRG Direct, an ISF and customs entry self filing provider, allows importers to file online in seconds using templates and excel uploads. Also, since the ISF is not considered customs business, many importers allow their vendors to access the ISFs under their own user names and input information, which means the information never has to go through a third party.If you haven’t started filing, don’t stress: you still have a month to practice filing penalty-free. However, you need to start filing now. CBP has stated that the most important thing importers can do before compliance begins is to create a history with CBP by filing their ISFs. By doing so, importers may be able to mitigate any fines and penalties assessed at the beginning of compliance. Importers who have not been filing will be the first ones paying these fines.If you have been filing, you need to make sure your policies and procedures are in place and that all filings are timely and accurate. Check your progress report to see how well you’re doing. And remember, by filing yourself, you have complete control over filing timely and accurately.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Should I enter container information on my ISF?
It is possible to entry container information into an ISF, but should this be done?
We suggest that it is truly best if container and equipment information is not entered. The container information is not pulled into the customs entry, is not required in either the entry or ISF, and can be more problematic than helpful with the Importer Security Filing. If incorrect information is entered, the ISF can be rejected, which is a problem because a rejected ISF is like not filing an ISF at all.
To have more of your ISF questions answered please send an email to jdinan@trgdirect.com.
We suggest that it is truly best if container and equipment information is not entered. The container information is not pulled into the customs entry, is not required in either the entry or ISF, and can be more problematic than helpful with the Importer Security Filing. If incorrect information is entered, the ISF can be rejected, which is a problem because a rejected ISF is like not filing an ISF at all.
To have more of your ISF questions answered please send an email to jdinan@trgdirect.com.
Monday, October 26, 2009
TRG Direct President to Present at CBP Trade Symposium
Mike Laden of TRG Direct will presenting at this year's US Customs's Trade Symposium in Importer Security Filing. Mike has been spending a lot of time over the past few months providing his knowledge to the Trade on ISF during CBP's trade outreach program.
Mike's involvement speaks volumes on TRG Direct's knowledge of ISF and CBP's respect for the President of the company. Mike presents as a ISF software solution provider. Other speakers include a self-filing importer and a Customs broker or Carrier.
For more information on CBP's Trade Symposium visit www.cbp.gov.
Mike's involvement speaks volumes on TRG Direct's knowledge of ISF and CBP's respect for the President of the company. Mike presents as a ISF software solution provider. Other speakers include a self-filing importer and a Customs broker or Carrier.
For more information on CBP's Trade Symposium visit www.cbp.gov.
Friday, October 23, 2009
ISF Customs Bond FAQs from CBP
U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently released an updated list of FAQs on their website. You can download a copy of the FAQs here.
Within the FAQs is information on the Customs bond that will need to guarantee the importer security filing. In most cases the importer will have a continuous customs bond already on file and not need to engage in the more complicated ISF bond.
Within the FAQs is information on the Customs bond that will need to guarantee the importer security filing. In most cases the importer will have a continuous customs bond already on file and not need to engage in the more complicated ISF bond.
Monday, October 19, 2009
ISF Direct Filing Customer Service Blog with Jamie Dinan
Jamie Dinan has been running a fabulous blog for our direct filing customers. The blog is dedicated to ISF FAQs and updates. Jamie is a very talented writter and extremely knowledgeable on Importer Security Filing and self-filing.
Here is the link to the blog: http://isfsoftware.wordpress.com/
This is a great resource for customers as well as those importers who are looking into direct filing as a solution for ISF. TRG Direct is completely web-based and requires no start-up fee for filing your ISF. Check out Jamie's blog and let us know if you are interested in a demonstration.
Here is the link to the blog: http://isfsoftware.wordpress.com/
This is a great resource for customers as well as those importers who are looking into direct filing as a solution for ISF. TRG Direct is completely web-based and requires no start-up fee for filing your ISF. Check out Jamie's blog and let us know if you are interested in a demonstration.
Friday, October 16, 2009
10+2 Will be a Topic of Discussion at COAC Meeting
The Advisory Committee on Commercial Operations of U.S. Customsand Border Protection (COAC) will meet on November 4, 2009 in Washington, DC. Themeeting will be open to the public.DATES: COAC will meet Wednesday, November 4, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pleasenote that the meeting may close early if the committee completes its business. If youplan on attending, please register either online athttp://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/trade_outreach/coac/, or by e-mail totradeevents@dhs.gov by close-of-business on Friday, October 30, 2009.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
CBP Trade Symposium with Host Session on ISF
This years CBP Trade Symposium will include Importer Security Filing. The sessions are available both online and onsite. TRG will have representatives at the Symposium as well as broadcasting certain sessions at our Bozeman office.
Other topics include:
Modernization
Trade Policy
Intellectual Property Rights
Importer Security Filing
North American Border Issues
Port Operations
Automated Commercial Environment
Importer Self Assessment
Business Resumption Planning
C-TPAT
Interagency Collaboration
The Rulings Process
The onsite registration is available, online registration will be available soon. To keep an eye on registration visit CBP's website.
Other topics include:
Modernization
Trade Policy
Intellectual Property Rights
Importer Security Filing
North American Border Issues
Port Operations
Automated Commercial Environment
Importer Self Assessment
Business Resumption Planning
C-TPAT
Interagency Collaboration
The Rulings Process
The onsite registration is available, online registration will be available soon. To keep an eye on registration visit CBP's website.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Begin Filing Your ISF Today
We are getting so close to the Jan 26th deadline. As D-Day approaches importers are scrambling to find their compliance solutions. Many importers began filing by using their broker. They said, "I don't have time to deal with this, you deal with it". Now as they begin to review their report card and find that even though their broker is filing, they still are not compliant.
HELP! Frantically importers are looking to other options, some think it is too late to learn how to file in-house, but they are wrong. We have about 3 months to get you up and running and compliant. Let's start today. Atalanta, a direct filer of ISF and customs entries through TRG Direct is 99% compliant after filing ISF in-house after 3 months. It is doable. The most important thing is that CBP sees that you are taking the right steps toward compliance.
Call us today, we can help. 800-685-6082
HELP! Frantically importers are looking to other options, some think it is too late to learn how to file in-house, but they are wrong. We have about 3 months to get you up and running and compliant. Let's start today. Atalanta, a direct filer of ISF and customs entries through TRG Direct is 99% compliant after filing ISF in-house after 3 months. It is doable. The most important thing is that CBP sees that you are taking the right steps toward compliance.
Call us today, we can help. 800-685-6082
Thursday, October 1, 2009
First Vendor Webinar a Success
Last night at 8pm CT we hosted our first ISF vendor compliance webinar. Only about 20% of those who registered for the webinar actually attended, but those who attended participated greatly. We have many great questions and these vendors are taking charge to make filing the ISF on time a reality for their customers.
The webinar was hosted in English, with a Mandarin translation. This same webinar will be posted on our website and sent to those individuals who were unable to attend. This same webinar will be hosted again in 2 weeks.
Next week, we will host our second ISF vendor compliance webinar only the time zone will be changed to include vendors in Europe. Along with the ppts translated into various languages we are also providing templates for the vendors to use which highlights what information needs to be given to the US importer and at which date.
We are very pleased with this first webinar. Thanks to those who attended.
The webinar was hosted in English, with a Mandarin translation. This same webinar will be posted on our website and sent to those individuals who were unable to attend. This same webinar will be hosted again in 2 weeks.
Next week, we will host our second ISF vendor compliance webinar only the time zone will be changed to include vendors in Europe. Along with the ppts translated into various languages we are also providing templates for the vendors to use which highlights what information needs to be given to the US importer and at which date.
We are very pleased with this first webinar. Thanks to those who attended.
Friday, September 11, 2009
ISF Outreach Program l TRG Direct President Participates
TRG Direct President Mike Laden has been taking part in the US Customs' ISF Trade Outreach programs. As an expert in international trade security and supply chain management, Mike has been asked to be involved as a presenter. The following dates are still available for those involved in importer security filing to attend:
Chicago, IL – Wednesday, September 23, 2009 (On-line Registration opens September 4, 2009)( Chicago Registration ) ( Chicago Cancellation )
Oakland/San Francisco, CA – Wednesday, September 23, 2009 (On-line Registration opens September 4, 2009)( Oakland/San Francisco Registration ) ( Oakland/San Francisco Cancellation )
Washington, DC - Friday, September 25, 2009 (On-line Registration opens September 4, 2009)( Washington Registration ) ( Washington Cancellation )
Norfolk, VA – Wednesday, September 30, 2009 (On-line Registration opens September 14, 2009)( Norfolk Registration ) ( Norfolk Cancellation )
Newark, NJ – Wednesday, September 30, 2009 (On-line Registration opens September 14, 2009)( Newark Registration ) ( Newark Cancellation )
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
ISF User Group Meeting 9-9-09
TRG Direct just wrapped up another ISF user group meeting. With an outstanding attendence, our customers came prepared with great questions.
Download the audio from TRG Direct's user group meeting. As a teaser... here are a few questions that were asked today. Get the answers online!
Download the audio from TRG Direct's user group meeting. As a teaser... here are a few questions that were asked today. Get the answers online!
- "When I get a an acceptance for my Importer Security Filing and also the Bill of lading is on file, then the shipping line informs me that they left out the containers out of the vessel so the ETA and ETD will be different while the Bill of lading number will be the same, do I have to re-submit my ISF form because of the information that has been changed?"
- "Can you please confirm that the carrier used in ISF is the vessel owner and not the owner of MBL."
- "When creating an ISF and using an ISF template, can the template be updated from the ISF screen?"
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
ISF Trade Outreach Program Says FILE FILE FILE
Mike Laden, President TRG Direct attended an East Coast CBP trade outreach program last week and reports that Customs says you must be filing. There are still so many skeptics out there saying that January 2010 will not be the deadline for ISF. However, Rich Dinucci has reported that over 2million ISFs have been filed and the trade is making progress.
One startling thing that has come up in a few conversations with importers is that the Customs Reauthorization Bill has language that hints that the ISF may be used for compartive purposes, such as the data being available to other Government Agencies for pre-screening purposes. At this point this is speculation so don't quote us on that. Just be aware.
Stayed tuned to keep updated on importer security filing or contact us with your ISF questions.
One startling thing that has come up in a few conversations with importers is that the Customs Reauthorization Bill has language that hints that the ISF may be used for compartive purposes, such as the data being available to other Government Agencies for pre-screening purposes. At this point this is speculation so don't quote us on that. Just be aware.
Stayed tuned to keep updated on importer security filing or contact us with your ISF questions.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Easy Application Process for Direct Filing ISF
TRG Direct will make the transition into self-filing ISF as easy as possible. As a direct filing importer you will simply need to provide us with a Power of Attorney (POA) and payment information. The POA is needed because you will actually borrow our filer code. Since ISF is not considered "Custom's Business" this is exceptable. Next, you can pay via credit card or ACH and you are ready to file.
The sign up process can be done online and we can get you set up in our system in less than 1 day.
Our ISF customer service line is available to our clients at no extra charge along with our monthly user group meetings. ***Another new addition to our customer service is our ISF customer service blog, Jamie Dinan our TRG Direct sales administrator updates this blog with new trends following importer security filing. Access this blog here (whether or not you are a TRG Direct filing customer).
The sign up process can be done online and we can get you set up in our system in less than 1 day.
Our ISF customer service line is available to our clients at no extra charge along with our monthly user group meetings. ***Another new addition to our customer service is our ISF customer service blog, Jamie Dinan our TRG Direct sales administrator updates this blog with new trends following importer security filing. Access this blog here (whether or not you are a TRG Direct filing customer).
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
ISF Vendor & Supplier Compliance
Are you still contemplating how to establish and enforce the advanced data reporting requirements under Importer Security Filing? Like preparing for a 400-meter relay, good communication and training is imperative, especially with something like this that carries stiff monetary penalties or that could result in a “Do Not Load” message next January and requires significant change to the current methods in place for centuries. Is your supply chain ready to hand off your ISF baton?
Importer Security Filing Preparation
To reinforce the necessity for the ten (10) ISF data (excluding the bill of lading number, called the “phantom eleventh”) elements, we strongly suggests that you consider amending your purchase order or other contractual agreements used in the transaction to require the vendor or supplier’s compliance with ISF requirements. Some importers are also adding conditions to financial instruments like letters of credit. Placing such language in your contractual documents could prove to be a mitigating factor if CBP issues you a penalty for untimely or inaccurate data after January 2010.
We also suggest that you contact and closely coordinate activities with the ocean carriers, NVOCC’s and freight forwarders that participate in your import program. Meetings between your supplier base and the carrier(s) at origin should be implemented for purposes of ironing out new protocols and procedures for issuing the bill of lading number in advance. Most major ocean carriers (Maersk, APL/NOL, Evergreen, Hanjin, NYK, K-Line, OOCL and others) are well informed on ISF; therefore, if leveraged properly, their overseas offices can assist you with educating your vendor and supplier base. We recommend that you contact your US-based carrier representative and request their overseas offices engage problematic vendors or otherwise help you communicate this new requirement.
If your ISF baton is dropped between transfers, immediate disqualification may occur. Some importers are instituting vendor penalties through their vendor compliance programs to incentivize compliance and to help offset the potential cost of CBP penalties levied against the importer.
Suggested Notifications For Your Suppliers & Vendors
It seems that the two most troubling situations for importers right now are the inability to get the bill of lading number in advance and/or lack of suppliers and vendors.
If you are currently direct filing with TRG Direct, you can access these letters within your account under Resources. Suggested reading or attachments to your correspondence might include an Adobe copy of CBP Interim Final Rule (Federal Register Notice), copies of your new company polices or procedures, copies of other publications concerning ISF, and/or letters underscoring the importance and their support for the initiative from Senior Management.Our ISF direct filing customers are free to use our suggested language or some variation thereof for their company or particular situation in an effort to get compliance with their ISF program; of course, the tone can also be adjusted according to personal preferences and corporate culture.
Importer Security Filing Preparation
To reinforce the necessity for the ten (10) ISF data (excluding the bill of lading number, called the “phantom eleventh”) elements, we strongly suggests that you consider amending your purchase order or other contractual agreements used in the transaction to require the vendor or supplier’s compliance with ISF requirements. Some importers are also adding conditions to financial instruments like letters of credit. Placing such language in your contractual documents could prove to be a mitigating factor if CBP issues you a penalty for untimely or inaccurate data after January 2010.
We also suggest that you contact and closely coordinate activities with the ocean carriers, NVOCC’s and freight forwarders that participate in your import program. Meetings between your supplier base and the carrier(s) at origin should be implemented for purposes of ironing out new protocols and procedures for issuing the bill of lading number in advance. Most major ocean carriers (Maersk, APL/NOL, Evergreen, Hanjin, NYK, K-Line, OOCL and others) are well informed on ISF; therefore, if leveraged properly, their overseas offices can assist you with educating your vendor and supplier base. We recommend that you contact your US-based carrier representative and request their overseas offices engage problematic vendors or otherwise help you communicate this new requirement.
If your ISF baton is dropped between transfers, immediate disqualification may occur. Some importers are instituting vendor penalties through their vendor compliance programs to incentivize compliance and to help offset the potential cost of CBP penalties levied against the importer.
Suggested Notifications For Your Suppliers & Vendors
It seems that the two most troubling situations for importers right now are the inability to get the bill of lading number in advance and/or lack of suppliers and vendors.
If you are currently direct filing with TRG Direct, you can access these letters within your account under Resources. Suggested reading or attachments to your correspondence might include an Adobe copy of CBP Interim Final Rule (Federal Register Notice), copies of your new company polices or procedures, copies of other publications concerning ISF, and/or letters underscoring the importance and their support for the initiative from Senior Management.Our ISF direct filing customers are free to use our suggested language or some variation thereof for their company or particular situation in an effort to get compliance with their ISF program; of course, the tone can also be adjusted according to personal preferences and corporate culture.
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