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.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
What do I do if I get a No Bill on File Message with my ISF?
There are many reasons for No Bill on File messages when filing your importer security filing. Here are some causes and what you can do to rectify them:
1. The bill of lading will not match if you file the ISF before the BoL is entered into AMS. You do not need to retransmit; Customs will continue to try to match the BoL.
2. The bill of lading may not match right away if the goods hit several ports before coming to the US. The BoL may not match until it leaves the last port bound for the US. There is no need to retransmit; Customs will continue to try to match the BoL.
3. The BoL will not match if the wrong Bill Type is indicated. If the BoL is marked as a Straight bill in AMS but a House bill on the ISF, the bills will not match. If this is the problem, select the correct Bill Type in the Header Screen, Save changes, and retransmit the ISF.
4. If none of these solutions work and/or if the goods are about to leave the last port bound for the US and you still don't have a bill match, it is good practice to call to verify that you have the correct Bill Type, SCAC code, and Bill Number. If your BoL is wrong, update the ISF and retransmit. If all the information is correct, there is nothing you can do but wait for Customs to match it on their end. For some reason, some BoLs never match; this is why Customs will not be issuing fines or penalties for bill matches until their system is more refined.
At this time, Customs is not fining, and the way they are matching bills is still imperfect. The important thing to do at this time is to file an Importer Security Filing for every ocean entry.
1. The bill of lading will not match if you file the ISF before the BoL is entered into AMS. You do not need to retransmit; Customs will continue to try to match the BoL.
2. The bill of lading may not match right away if the goods hit several ports before coming to the US. The BoL may not match until it leaves the last port bound for the US. There is no need to retransmit; Customs will continue to try to match the BoL.
3. The BoL will not match if the wrong Bill Type is indicated. If the BoL is marked as a Straight bill in AMS but a House bill on the ISF, the bills will not match. If this is the problem, select the correct Bill Type in the Header Screen, Save changes, and retransmit the ISF.
4. If none of these solutions work and/or if the goods are about to leave the last port bound for the US and you still don't have a bill match, it is good practice to call to verify that you have the correct Bill Type, SCAC code, and Bill Number. If your BoL is wrong, update the ISF and retransmit. If all the information is correct, there is nothing you can do but wait for Customs to match it on their end. For some reason, some BoLs never match; this is why Customs will not be issuing fines or penalties for bill matches until their system is more refined.
At this time, Customs is not fining, and the way they are matching bills is still imperfect. The important thing to do at this time is to file an Importer Security Filing for every ocean entry.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
ISF Bonding Requirements by TRG l Register Now!
New bonding requirements for low volume importers
Save the date! TRG is hosting a free webinar to discuss the new bonding requirements for Importer Security Filing.
February 4th 11am CT Register Now
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 now requires that if a single transaction bond is used to clear an entry, an additional single entry ISF bond to be in 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).
Save the date! TRG is hosting a free webinar to discuss the new bonding requirements for Importer Security Filing.
February 4th 11am CT Register Now
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 now requires that if a single transaction bond is used to clear an entry, an additional single entry ISF bond to be in 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).
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.”
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Get your C-TPAT certification for ISF purposes!
C-TPAT Certified? Save the date for this CBP Training Seminar.
Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) is a Customs & Border Protection (CBP) Security initiative designed to engage importers in the validation of their supply chain integrity. Learn more about C-TPAT and the benefits associated with the program in the TRG Trade Spotlight September 2008 issue.
For importers already participating in this initiative, CBP is hosting a training seminar geared toward the challenges in upholding supply chain security during today’s economic environment. The event will include education on:
Balancing Supply Chain Security & Economic Efficiency
Conducting a Supply Chain Security Risk Assessment
Revalidations
Suspensions and Removals
C-TPAT Best Practices
Developing a Security Training & Awareness Program
Proactive Approaches to Security Breach Prevention
Mutual Recognition
Interagency cooperation
Only 1,200 Slots Available – First Come First Served!
Location:
Anaheim Marriott Hotel700 West Convention WayAnaheim, California, 92802
Dates:
Session 1 – Wednesday & Thursday, March 17-18, 2010Session 2 – Thursday & Friday, March 18-19, 2010
Cost:
No cost to attend the conference. Expenses for lodging and travel are the responsibility of the C-TPAT member.
Registration: Online CBP Website
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 part is easy.
TRG Direct, an ISF and customs entry software 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.
Monday, January 11, 2010
File Your ISF Using TRG Direct's Template
New addition to TRG Direct....TRG Direct recently reduced the filing time for Importer Security Filing self filers. The introduction of their excel ISF upload template allows importers to upload information directly into an ISF. Self filers simply input data in the appropriate part of the template and upload it directly into TRG Direct. After a quick review, the ISF can be transmitted directly to U.S. Customs via a direct Automated Broker Interface (ABI) connection.Another nice quality about the excel spreadsheet is the usefulness in coordination with an importer's overseas vendors. Most vendors are already filling out ISF information templates or word documents for their U.S. importers; now, they can simply fill out TRG Direct's ISF upload spreadsheet. This saves the importer time because they don't need to re-key the information for their ISF; they just upload the spreadsheet which auto-populates their information directly into TRG Direct. www.trgdirect.com
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