An HTS code is a classification number used to identify products imported into the United States. HTS stands for Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The HTS code helps U.S. Customs and Border Protection determine how imported goods should be classified, what duty rate may apply, and whether additional tariffs or requirements may be involved. For importers, the […]
A freight forwarder is a company that helps arrange the transportation of goods from one place to another. Freight forwarders work with importers, exporters, carriers, truckers, warehouses, customs brokers, and overseas agents to help coordinate shipments across the supply chain. In simple terms, a freight forwarder helps move cargo. Freight forwarders do not always physically
A customs broker is a licensed professional or company that helps importers clear goods through U.S. Customs and Border Protection. When goods are imported into the United States, certain information must be submitted to Customs before the shipment can be released. This may include details about the importer, supplier, product, value, country of origin, classification,
Some cargo requires more than standard transportation. When goods are sensitive to heat, cold, humidity, or extended transit time, importers may need temperature-controlled shipping to help protect the product from damage, spoilage, or loss of quality. Temperature-controlled cargo can include food products, beverages, produce, seafood, frozen goods, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals, flowers, and other sensitive commodities.
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If you are importing goods into the United States by ocean freight, you may hear the term ISF before your shipment is loaded at origin. ISF stands for Importer Security Filing, and it is an important part of the ocean import process. ISF is also commonly referred to as 10+2. It requires certain shipment information
When importing goods into the United States, the commercial invoice is one of the most important documents in the entire process. It may look like a basic sales document, but for Customs clearance, it plays a much larger role. U.S. Customs and Border Protection uses invoice information to understand what is being imported, who is
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Booking ocean freight may seem straightforward at first: choose a carrier, confirm a rate, and move the shipment. In reality, there are several important details importers should review before cargo is booked. The decisions made before booking can affect transit time, total cost, customs clearance, delivery, and the overall success of the shipment. A low
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When shipping goods by ocean freight, one of the first questions importers often face is whether to ship by FCL or LCL. Both options are commonly used in international shipping, but they work differently. The best choice depends on your cargo volume, timeline, budget, risk tolerance, and how much control you want over the shipment.
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Importing goods into the United States involves more than arranging transportation. Before cargo can move smoothly through the import process, the correct documentation needs to be prepared, reviewed, and submitted accurately. For many importers, documentation is where delays begin. A missing commercial invoice, an unclear product description, an incorrect consignee, or incomplete shipment details can
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Importers are facing a rapidly changing trade environment, and now is the time to take action. From upcoming freight rate increases to tariff changes and refund opportunities, there may be significant money at stake for your company.Here are the key items importers should be aware of: IEEPA refund opportunities: Our clients are recovering millions and millions of
June 15th GRI, IEEPA Refund and Tariff Changes sent Read More »