Glossary

Glossary

Customs Brokerage - Glossary

4811 ServiceThis service applies to the completion and submission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 4811. This form is used to advise U.S. Customs and Border Protection when the customer wants documents forwarded to a party other than the importer of record. Example: Importers that use a 3PL or 4PL provider may want the provider to receive all U.S. Customs and Border Protection post entry correspondence. In such a case, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 4811 informs the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to send documents directly to them instead of the Importer of record.
ABI Set-Up This function includes the entry of a customer's account information in our system so that it can be transmitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection via the Automated Broker Interface (ABI). To ensure accuracy of importer and consignee information, all IRS numbers are queried via U.S. Customs and Border Protection's ABI system. Regardless of bond type, all bond information is linked by IRS number in preparation for the entry process. This step is critical to ensure that all transmitted data is up to date and will therefore enable expedited clearance. ABI set-up is included in the base price.
Additional B/L on Entry (Bill of Lading)This service applies to shipments, which can have more than one bill of lading/air waybill per entry (consolidated entry). Each bill of lading/air waybill represents a shipment and all bills of lading/air waybills must be included on the entry summary. Therefore, even though the commodity might be the same, input of each bill of lading/air waybill number must be included for customs purposes.
AFTAAustralia Free Trade Agreement
Air WaybillAn AWB is a bill of lading which covers both domestic and international flights transporting goods to a specified destination. Technically, it is a non-negotiable instrument of air transport which serves as a receipt for the shipper, indicating that the carrier has accepted the goods listed therein and obligates itself to carry the consignment to the airport of destination according to specified conditions. Normally AWB refers to the Air Waybill issued by carrying airlines and also called Master Air Waybill (MAWB) which comes with three digits of numeric airline identification codes issued by IATA to non-U.S. based airlines and Air Transport Association of America to U.S. based airlines. However, air freight forwarders also issue HAWB (House Air Waybill) to their customers for each of the shipments.
ATAActual Time of Arrival, or Airport-To-Airport, or Air Transport Association of America.
ATDActual Time of Departure.
Automated Broker InterfaceABI, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, permits transmission of data pertaining to merchandise being imported into the United States. Qualified participants include brokers, importers, carriers, port authorities, and independent data processing companies referred to as service centers.
Automated Clearing - houseThe Automated Clearinghouse (ACH) is a feature of the Automated Broker Interface which is a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System. The ACH combines elements of bank lock box arrangements with electronic funds transfer services to replace cash or check for payment of estimated duties, taxes, and fees on imported merchandise.
Bill of Lading Bills of lading are contracts between the owner of the goods and the carrier. There are two types. A straight bill of lading is nonnegotiable. A negotiable or shipper's order bill of lading can be bought, sold, or traded while goods are in transit and is used for many types of financing transactions. The customer usually needs the original or a copy as proof of ownership to take possession of the goods.
Bond PremiumBond Premium is a fee for the coverage offered by a Single Transaction Bond.
Bond SystemThe Bond System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, provides information on bond coverage. A Customs bond is a contract between a principal, usually an importers, and a surety which is obtained to insure performance of an obligation imposed by law or regulation. The bond covers potential loss of duties, taxes, and penalties for specific types of transactions. Customs is the contract beneficiary.
Bonded WarehouseThe U.S. Customs Service authorizes bonded warehouses for storage or manufacture of goods on which payment of duties is deferred until the goods enter the Customs Territory. The goods are not subject to duties if reshipped to foreign points.
CAFCurrency Adjustment Factor (compensation factor for the various currencies)
Calculation of Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)This service covers the calculation of the Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF), which is an ad valorem (according to value) fee assessed on cargo imports and admissions into foreign trade zones. The fee is 0.125% of the value of the cargo and is paid quarterly, except for imports which are paid at the time of entry. U.S. Customs and Border Protection deposits the HMF collections into the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund. The funds are made available, subject to appropriation, to the Army Corps of Engineers for the improvement and maintenance of U.S. ports and harbors. Calculation of Harbor Maintenance Fee is included in the base price.
Calculation of Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF)This service covers the calculation of the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), which is a charge imposed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, on an ad valorem (according to value) basis. MPF is 0.21% of the entered value; Minimum $25, maximum $485. Calculation of the Merchandise Processing Fee is included in the base price.
Cargo InsuranceThis fee provides cargo insurance for the importer's freight. Cargo insurance, also referred to as 'Property Casualty Insurance', covers the insured against the accidental physical loss or damage from a covered external danger while in normal course of transit. It is often called 'Marine Cargo Insurance' even though it can cover cargo shipped by all modes of transportation including air and truck. Cargo insurance cannot give the insured back any lost time if replacement materials need to be manufactured and shipped to the buyer. Cargo insurance cannot give the insured back any lost future sales if their customer is upset because the damaged cargo caused a delay in receiving their purchase.
CarnetA customs document permitting the holder to carry or send merchandise temporarily into certain foreign countries for display, demonstration or other purposes without paying import duties or posting bonds.
Carnet EntryThis fee applies to shipments imported under a Carnet. A Carnet is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection document permitting the holder to carry merchandise temporarily into certain foreign countries (for display, demonstration, or similar purposes) without paying duties or posting bonds.
Carriage and Insurance Paid ToThe delivery of goods and the cargo insurance to the named place of destination (discharge) at seller's expense. Buyer assumes the import customs clearance, payment of customs duties and taxes, and other costs and risks.
Carriage Paid ToThe delivery of goods to the named place of destination (discharge) at seller's expense. Buyer assumes the cargo insurance, import customs clearance, payment of customs duties and taxes, and other costs and risks.
CFRCost and Freight
CFSContainer Freight Station (warehouse where the containers are loaded or unloaded)
CIFCost, Insurance and Freight
CIPCarriage and Insurance Paid To
Clean Bill of LadingA receipt for goods issued by a carrier with an indication that the goods were received in "apparent good order and condition," without damages or other irregularities.
Clean Truck Adminis - trative FeeWhen SERVICE SHIPPING, INC arranges for pick up of a freight container by truck at the Ports of Los Angeles or Long Beach, the truck must be claimed in an Electronic System called PortCheck, which is used by the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to process trucks and to collect the Clean Truck Fee. SERVICE SHIPPING, INC will charge a fee for claiming each container.
Clean Truck FeeEffective February 18, 2009, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach will implement the Clean Truck Fee as part of a plan to attempt to reduce truck pollution. An Electronic System, PortCheck, is used by the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to process trucks and to collect the Clean Truck Fee. All containers being picked up by truck directly from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are processed through PortCheck. The Clean Truck Fee applies when the truck picking up the freight does not qualify as a �clean truck� under the Clean Truck Program.
Closed ventilated containerIt is used for the carriage of cargo, such as hides, that cannot stand excessive moisture. It is similar to the dry cargo container with specially designed natural or mechanical (forced) ventilation.
Commercial Invoices (1 per entry included)The commercial invoice is the document from the seller to the buyer that includes very detailed information regarding the shipment; price, terms of sale, description, part numbers, delivery address, bill to party, etc. "1 per entry included" means that included in our base price is the classification of one invoice.
ConsigneeThe person or firm named in a freight contract to whom goods have been consigned or turned over. For export control purposes, the documentation differentiates between an "intermediate" consignee and an "ultimate" consignee.
ConsignmentDelivery of merchandise from an exporter (the consignor) to an agent (the consignee) under agreement that the agent sell the merchandise for the account of the exporter. The consignor retains title to the goods until sold. The consignee sells the goods for commission and remits the net proceeds to the consignor.
Consular InvoiceA document, required by some foreign countries, describing a shipment of goods and showing information such as the consignor, consignee, and value of the shipment. Certified by a consular official of the foreign country, it is used by the country's customs officials to verify the value, quantity, and nature of the shipment.
Continuous BondsA Customs Bond is a guarantee to Customs that the importer will pay all duties, taxes, and fees associated with the importation of commercial goods into the United States, in full and in a timely manner. This guarantee is typically granted by a surety or bond company to the importer or principal. A continuous bond can be purchased on an annual basis and will cover all entries for the importer of record, through any port - providing the broker has a valid power of attorney from the importer or principal. The continuous bond renews annually until terminated by importer, principal, Customs Broker, or Surety. The minimum bond amount required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection is $50,000 or 10% of the total duties, taxes and fees, plus all open increased duty bills and debit vouchers paid in the previous 12- months; whichever is greater.
Cost and FreightThe delivery of goods to the named port of destination (discharge) at the seller's expense. Buyer is responsible for the cargo insurance and other costs and risks. The term CFR was formerly written as C&F. Many importers and exporters worldwide still use the term C&F.
Cost, Insurance and FreightThe cargo insurance and delivery of goods to the named port of destination (discharge) at the seller's expense. Buyer is responsible for the import customs clearance and other costs and risks.
Country of Origin- ISFISF Filer needs to provide the country where the imported cargo / commodity are being imported from.
CPTCarriage Paid To
CSCContainer Service Charge (costs for a country-sided handling of FCL containers at a "free on board" delivery)
CustomsThe government authorities designated to collect duties levied by a country on imports and exports.
Customs BrokerAn individual or company licensed by the government to enter and clear goods through Customs. The U.S. Customs Service defines a Customs Broker, as any person who is licensed in accordance with Part III of Title 19 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Customs regulations) to transact Customs business on behalf of others. Customs business is limited to those activities involving transactions with Customs concerning the entry and admissibility of merchandise; its classification and valuation; the payment of duties, taxes, or other charges assessed or collected by Customs upon merchandise by reason of its importation, or the refund, rebate, or drawback thereof.
Customs Consulting ServicesSERVICE SHIPPING, INC Trade Management Services offers a variety of trade consulting services, which are available on an hourly or per transaction basis. Examples of consulting services include: o Post Entry Services o Binding Rulings o Special trade program eligibility o Export compliance programs o Vendor consulting and management o C-TPAT, CSI, PIP, FAST approval consulting o Import/export license coordination o Alternative records storage development
Customs Import ValueThis is the U.S. Customs Service appraisal value of merchandise. Methodologically, the Customs value is similar to f.a.s. (free alongside ship) value since it is based on the value of the product in the foreign country of origin, and excludes charges incurred in bringing the merchandise to the United States (import duties, ocean freight, insurance, and so forth); but it differs in that the U.S. Customs Service, not the importer or exporter, has the final authority to determine the value of the good.
Customs InvoiceA document, required by some foreign countries' customs officials to verify the value, quantity, and nature of the shipment, describing the shipment of goods and showing information such as the consignor, consignee, and value of the shipment.
CYContainer Yard (a place where FCL shipments and empty containers will be assumed by the customer or be delivered by the ship owner to the customer)
DAFDelivered At Frontier
Dangerous GoodsCommodities classified by IATA according to its nature and characteristic in terms of the effect of its danger to carrier's flying safety.
DDPDelivered Duty Paid
DDUDelivered Duty Unpaid
Delivered At FrontierThe delivery of goods to the specified point at the frontier at seller's expense. Buyer is responsible for the import customs clearance, payment of customs duties and taxes, and other costs and risks.
Delivered Duty PaidThe seller is responsible for most of the expenses, which include the cargo insurance, import customs clearance, and payment of customs duties and taxes at the buyer's end, and the delivery of goods to the final point at destination, which is often the project site or buyer's premises. The seller may opt not to insure the goods at his/her own risks.
Delivered Duty UnpaidThe delivery of goods and the cargo insurance to the final point at destination, which is often the project site or buyer's premises, at seller's expense. Buyer assumes the import customs clearance and payment of customs duties and taxes. The seller may opt not to insure the goods at his/her own risks.
Delivered Ex QuayThe delivery of goods to the quay (the port) at destination at seller's expense. Seller is responsible for the import customs clearance and payment of customs duties and taxes at the buyer's end. Buyer assumes the cargo insurance and other costs and risks.
Delivered Ex ShipThe delivery of goods on board the vessel at the named port of destination (discharge), at seller's expense. Buyer assumes the unloading fee, import customs clearance, payment of customs duties and taxes, cargo insurance, and other costs and risks.
Delivery InstructionsProvides specific information to the inland carrier concerning the arrangement made by the forwarder to deliver the merchandise to the particular pier or steamship line. Not to be confused with Delivery Order which is used for import cargo.
Delivery OrderThese are instructions given to the trucking company that will deliver the freight to the ultimate consignee. This is a manual process.
DemurrageExcess time taken for loading or unloading a vessel, thus causing delay of scheduled departure. Demurrage refers only to situations in which the charter or shipper, rather than the vessel's operator, is at fault.
Deposit of Estimated DutiesThis refers to antidumping duties which must be deposited upon entry of merchandise which is the subject of an antidumping duty order for each manufacturer, producer or exporter equal to the amount by which the foreign market value exceeds the United States price of the merchandise.
DEQDelivered Ex Quay
DESDelivered Ex Ship
DetentionPer diem (charge on container held by customers for an extended period of time)
Direct ShipShip without consolidation and under one MAWB i.e. non-consolidation
Disbursement FeeA disbursement fee is a fee for amounts paid or processed on behalf of a client. The importer has the option of paying amounts due to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other government agencies and freight carriers directly
DO or D/ODelivery Order
Dock ReceiptA dock receipt is used to transfer accountability when the export item is moved by the domestic carrier to the port of embarkation and left with the international carrier for export.
DrawbackDrawback is a rebate by a government, in whole or in part, of customs duties assessed on imported merchandise that is subsequently exported. Drawback regulations and procedures vary among countries.
Drawback SystemThe Drawback System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, provides the means for processing and tracking of drawback claims.
Dry bulk containerIt is used for the carriage of dry solids in bulk without packaging, such as grains and dry chemicals. It consists of a cargo-carrying structure firmly secured within the intercontinental container framework.
DutyA tax imposed on imports by the customs authority of a country. Duties are generally based on the value of the goods (ad valorem duties), some other factors such as weight or quantity (specific duties), or a combination of value and other factors (compound duties).
Electronic Export Information (EEI)The Federal Trade Regulation (FTR) mandates that all export information for which a Shipper's Export Declaration (SED) is required must now be filed electronically through the Automated Export System (AES) only. Thus, the paper SED form (7525-V) is now obsolete. Census will no longer accept paper SEDs after September 30, 2008. Electronic Export Information (EEI) is the new official name of data filed in the AES and is the electronic equivalent to the data previously reported via the paper SED form.
eManifest - TruckAll trucks crossing into the U.S. are required to submit Advance Manifest Information through the ACE portal of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Truck e-Manifest service.
Emergency Contact ServicesThis fee is charged for emergency clearance services provided after business hours.
EntryAn Entry is the documentation required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and filed with the appropriate U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer and/or other government agency, to secure the release of imported merchandise from U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody, or the act of filing that documentation - "to make entry".
Entry / Immediate Release Delivery (Filing of U.S.This service represents the presentation of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 3461 (cargo release) to U.S. Customs and Border Protection via ABI. All critical release data is transmitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection by using the information formatted within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 3461 for release of the cargo. Once a release message is received from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the cargo will be permitted to move on to the destination point. Filing of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 3461 is included in the base price.
Entry Summary (Filing of U.S. Customs and Border PThis service represents the presentation of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 7501 (entry Summary) to U.S. Customs and Border Protection via ABI. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 7501 is the final presentation to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and includes the payment of duties and other U.S. Customs and Border Protection related charges. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 7501 must be filed with U.S. Customs and Border Protection within 10 working days of entry/immediate release (U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 3461). Filing of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 7501 is included in the base price.
Entry Summary Selectivity SystemThe Entry Summary Selectivity System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, provides an automated review of entry data to determine whether team or routine review is required. Selectivity criteria include an assessment of risk by importer, tariff number, country of origin, manufacturer, and value. Summaries with Census warnings, as well as quota, antidumping and countervailing duty entry summaries are selected for team review. A random sample of routine review summaries is also automatically selected for team review.
Entry Summary SystemAn entry is the minimum amount of documentation needed to secure the release of imported merchandise. The Entry Summary System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, contains data on release, summary, rejection, collection, liquidation, and extension or suspension.
Entry ValueThe U.S. Customs Service defines entry value (or entered value) as the value reflected on the entry documentation submitted by the importer. (see 19 CFR 141.61 for how shown on entry.)
ETAEstimated Time of Arrival. Then, It normally takes 4 hours for carriers to Break Bulk then ready to be picked up by forwarders along with customs release notification.
ETDEstimated Time of Departure. The cut-off time for carriers' cargo ramp handling is normally two hours ahead of ETD. However, the freight forwarders' consolidation cut-off time may vary depending on each forwarder's operations respectively.
Ex WorksEx means from. Works means factory, mill or warehouse, which is the seller's premises. EXW applies to goods available only at the seller's premises. Buyer is responsible for loading the goods on truck or container at the seller's premises, and for the subsequent costs and risks.
Exam Coordination This service is incurred when we arrange cartage of freight to the exam site as requested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Export Control Classification NumberEvery product has an export control classification number (formerly: Export Control Commodity Number) within the Commerce Control List. Each ECCN consists of five characters that identify the category, product group, type of control, and country group level of control.
Export LicenseA government document (also known as an "Individual Validated License") authorizing exports of specific goods in specific quantities to a particular destination. This document may be required in some countries for most or all exports and in other countries only under special circumstances.
EXWEx Works
FAKFreight All Kind
FASFree Alongside Ship
FCAFree Carrier
FCLFull Container Load (full container service)
FDA Prior Notice FeeThis fee applies to imports that require prior notification by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Certain Commodities must have prior notification given to the FDA within pre-set timeframes to allow review of all documents. The goal is to provide FDA with enough information and time to stop potentially harmful commodities from entering the U.S. SCS can provide the Prior Notice Service upon request.
Federal Maritime CommissionThe FMC is an independent agencies which regulates ocean borne transportation in the foreign commerce and in the domestic offshore trade of the United States.
File ReconstructionEvery entry packet is sent to the Importer of Record (IOR) once billing is completed. This fee is incurred when additional copies of an entry packet are requested for other parties.
FOBFree On Board
Free Alongside ShipGoods are placed in the dock shed or at the side of the ship, on the dock or lighter, within reach of its loading equipment so that they can be loaded aboard the ship, at seller's expense. Buyer is responsible for the loading fee, main carriage/freight, cargo insurance, and other costs and risks.
Free CarrierThe delivery of goods on truck, rail car or container at the specified point (depot) of departure, which is usually the seller's premises, or a named railroad station or a named cargo terminal or into the custody of the carrier, at seller's expense. The point (depot) at origin may or may not be a customs clearance center. Buyer is responsible for the main carriage/freight, cargo insurance and other costs and risks.
Free On BoardThe delivery of goods on board the vessel at the named port of origin (loading), at seller's expense. Buyer is responsible for the main carriage/freight, cargo insurance and other costs and risks.
Freight Consolidatorconsolidator or groupage operator---is an individual or firm who accepts less than container load (LCL) shipments from individual shippers, and then combines them for delivery to the carrier in full container load (FCL) shipment.
Freight Forwarder A forwarder---is an individual or firm who renders cargo delivery services. In domestic (local) freight forwarding, it is the delivery of goods usually from the exporter's premises to the local customs in exporting, and vice versa in importing. The customs broker also renders local freight forwarding for exporters and importers.
FTZ Admission / Withdrawal EntriesThis fee is for entry or withdrawal from a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ). An FTZ is a special commercial or industrial area in or near a port of entry where foreign and domestic merchandise, including raw materials, components, and finished goods may be brought in without being subject to payment of customs duties. Merchandise brought into these zones may be stored, sold, exhibited, repacked, assembled, sorted, graded, cleaned, or otherwise manipulated prior to re-export or entry in the national customs territory.
Government Contract Follow Up FeeThis fee applies to shipments imported duty free under a government contract number. The duty-free status is contingent on a valid certificate. The fee covers entry summary preparation, requesting the duty free certificate(s) from the Defense Logistics Agency and submitting the entry to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for immediate liquidation.
Hand CarryThis fee applies to shipments that are hand-carried into the U.S. aboard a commercial carrier. Since these shipments must still clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection, special arrangements must be made for the customs broker to meet the person at the airport with the release information so they can proceed through U.S. Customs and Border Protection without delays.
Harmonized SystemThe Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (or Harmonized System, HS) is a system for classifying goods in international trade, developed under the auspices of the Customs Cooperation Council. Beginning on January 1, 1989, the new HS numbers replaced previously adhered-to schedules in over 50 countries, including the United States. For the United States, the HS numbers and four additional digits are the numbers that are entered on the actual export and import documents. Any other commodity code classification number (SITC, end-use, etc.) are just rearrangements and transformations of the original HS numbers.
HAWBHouse Air waybill issued by carrying airlines' agent, normally freight forwarder.
HBLHouse Bill of Lading issued by carrying shipping agent, normally freight forwarder.
Heated containerIt uses the heater, that is, a heat-producing appliance.
IATAInternational Air Transport Association (IATA), established in 1945, is a trade association serving airlines, passengers, shippers, travel agents, and governments. The association promotes safety, standardization in forms (baggage checks, tickets, weigh bills), and aids in establishing international airfares. IATA headquarter is in Geneva, Switzerland.
Import CertificateThe import certificate is a means by which the government of the country of ultimate destination exercises legal control over the internal channeling of the commodities covered by the import certificate.
Import LicenseA document required and issued by some national governments authorizing the importation of goods. Also referred as import permit. With such documentation, customs clearance can be conducted.
Import QuotaA means of restricting imports by the issuance of licenses to importers, assigning each a quota, after determination of the total amount of any commodity which is to be imported during a period. Import licenses may also specify the country from which the importer must purchase the goods.
Importer of RecordThe U.S. Customs Service defines the importer of record as the owner or purchaser of the goods; or, when designated by the owner, purchaser, or consignee, a licensed Customs broker.
In-bond EntryIn the event freight must be moved from one port to another, U.S. Customs and Border Protection must be provided with an entry that gives the details of the move. This process allows the freight to be moved without being cleared as it has not yet entered the commerce of the U.S. but is still considered �bonded� freight. Upon arrival in the destination port, the freight can be cleared and duties paid.
IncotermsMaintained by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), this codification of terms is used in foreign trade contracts to define which parties incur the costs and at what specific point the costs are incurred.
Landed CostsThis fee covers the administrative work to research and document Landed Cost reports. Landed cost is the total cost of a shipment delivered to a named location, specifically the cost of the goods plus the cost of transportation.
LCLLess than Container Load (partial deliveries)
Lines of Classifications (1 per entry included)Each product must be classified with a tariff classification number. One invoice can have numerous parts requiring many classifications. U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations state that products that are "specifically provided for" in the tariff must be utilized before using "parts not specially provided for" elsewhere in the tariff. Note that each country of manufacture must be listed separately even though the same classification may apply. "1 per entry included" means that our base price includes one line of classification.
M.S.Motor Ship
M/VMotor Vessel (high seas ship)
M/W or W/MMeasurement/Weight or Weight/Measurement (calculation unit of ocean freight based on tonnes or cubic meters)
Marine Cargo InsuranceBroadly, insurance covering loss of, or damage to, goods at sea. Marine insurance typically compensates the owner of merchandise for losses in excess of those which can be legally recovered from the carrier that are sustained from fire, shipwreck, piracy, and various other causes. Three of the most common types of marine insurance coverage are "free of particular average" (f.p.a.), "with average" (w.a.), and "All Risks Coverage."
Mechanically refrigerated contIt uses a refrigerating appliance, that is, the mechanical compressor or absorption unit
NAFTANorth American Free Trade Agreement
Named cargo typesIt consists of various types of containers, such as automobile (car) containers and livestock (cattle and poultry) containers.
Open top containerIt is similar to the dry cargo container except that it has no rigid roof, but has a movable or removable cover (e.g. a cover made of canvas, plastic or reinforced plastic material) supported on movable or removable roof bows. The open top container is used for machinery, sheet glass, and other heavy, bulky or long objects.
Other Government Agency TransmissionThis fee applies when entry documents are transmitted to various government agencies, including: o U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) o Food & Drug Administration (FDA) o U.S. Fish & Wildlife (F&W) o U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) o Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) o United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Packing ListA shipping document issued by shipper to carrier, Customs and consignee serving the purposes of identifying detail information of package count, products count, measurement of each package, weight of each package, etc.
Personal Effects EntryThis fee covers the importation of personal use items, i.e. if a customer is moving their personal effects to the U.S. Personal effects imports in this manner cannot be sold or given away for the period of one year from the date of importation.
Pier PassPierPASS is a not-for-profit organization created by marine terminal operators to reduce congestion and improve air quality in and around the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. OffPeak is the off-peak hours program created by PierPASS. OffPeak provides an incentive for cargo owners to move cargo at night and on weekends, in order to reduce truck traffic and pollution during peak daytime traffic hours and to alleviate port congestion. If SERVICE SHIPPING, INC is requested to arrange pick up of freight during what is considered "Peak hours", SERVICE SHIPPING, INC will charge a fee to register each container for pick up.
Platform (flat rack)It does not have a superstructure, that is, rigid side walls and load-carrying structures. The term load refers to static/dynamic form of load (not cargo load) or forces arising out of the lifting, handling, securement and transporting of container. It is equipped with top and bottom corner fittings. The corner fittings (see diagram in the Dimension of General Purpose Containers) provide means of supporting, stacking, handling and securing the container. The flat rack is used for machinery, lumber, and other heavy or large objects
POAPower Of Attorney, an authorization granted by consignee or importer to its customs broker for the processing of customs clearance on its behalf
POD-Proof Of Delivery, or a cargo/package receipt with the signature of recipient. This term has been widely used in courier and express industry and also gaining more attention and implementation at air cargo industry. --Port Of Discharge
POLPort Of Loading
Post Entry Amendment (PEA)This fee covers the research and submission of a PEA, which allows for the correction of classification, valuation or other errors prior to the liquidation of an entry. In most cases, a PEA is submitted with the goal of obtaining a duty refund.
Pro Forma InvoiceAn invoice provided by a supplier prior to the shipment of merchandise, informing the buyer of the kinds and quantities of goods to be sent, their value, and important specifications (weight, size, and similar characteristics). When an importer applies for Letter of Credit as the means of payment, a Pro Forma Invoice from the beneficiary of such Letter of Credit, usually the exporter, is required by the L/C issuing bank.
ProtestThis fee covers the creation and submission of a protest to U.S. Customs and Border Protection on behalf of an importer. A protest is a means by which an importer, consignee, or other designated party may challenge a decision made by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. A protest must be filed within 90 days after liquidation.
Quotas and Quota SystemAbsolute quotas permit a limited number of units of specified merchandise to be entered or withdrawn for consumption during specified periods. Tariff-rate quotas permit a specified quantity of merchandise to be entered or withdrawn at a reduced rate during a specified period. Quotas are established by Presidential Proclamations, Executive Orders, or other legislation. The Quota System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, controls quota levels (quantities authorized) and quantities entered against those levels. Visas control exports from the country of origin. Visa authorizations are received from other countries and quantities entered against those visas are transmitted back to them. Control of visas and quotas simplify reconciliation of other countries' exports and U.S. imports.
Refrigerated and heated container It uses the refrigerating appliance (mechanical or expendable refrigerant) and heater.
Refrigerated container It uses dry ice or liquefied gases. It does not require external power supply or fuel supply.
Restricted Items for Import A license or permit from the responsible agency may be necessary to import: i.e alcoholic beverages animal and animal products certain drugs firearms and ammunition fruits..etc (For further assistance call us +1 (847) 427 175.)
Section 321This fee provides simplified entry processing for shipments valued at $200 USD or less. There is no duty or Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) assessed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on most Section 321 entries; however, certain products such as textiles, clothing, alcohol, tobacco, and food may require a formal entry, regardless of value.
Service to Act as a Registered U.S. AgentService to Act as a Registered U.S. Agent (Food and Drug Administration [FDA] Bio-Terrorism Act Requirement) If an importer does not have agent representation in the U.S., SCS will provide this service for a fee. This service is limited to Food & Drug Administration business as it pertains to rules and regulations set forth by the FDA and the Bio-Terrorism Act.
Shipper's Export DeclarationThe SED includes complete particulars on individual shipments and is used to control exports and act as a source document for the official U.S. export statistics. SEDs must be prepared for shipments through the U.S. Postal Service when the shipment is valued over $500. SEDs are required for shipments, other than by the U.S. Postal Service, where the value of commodities classified under each individual Schedule B number is over $2,500. SEDs must be prepared, regardless of value, for all shipments requiring a validated export license or destined for countries prohibited by the Export Administration Regulations. SEDs are prepared by the exporter and the exporter's agent and delivered to the exporting carrier (such as: post office, airline, or vessel line). The exporting carrier presents the required number of copies to the U.S. Customs Service at the port of export. The Foreign Trade Statistical Regulations (15 CFR, Part 30) provide the statistical requirements for use by exporters, freight forwarders, and ocean carriers concerning preparation and filing of SEDs.
Shipping MarkThe letters, numbers or other symbols placed on the outside of cargo to facilitate identification.
Shipping WeightShipping weight represents the gross weight in kilograms of shipments, including the weight of moisture content, wrappings, crates, boxes, and containers (other than cargo vans and similar substantial outer containers).
Single Transaction Bond PreparationA bond is required by the federal government in connection with the payment of duties or to produce documentation. U.S. Customs and Border Protection entries must be accompanied by evidence that a surety bond is posted with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to cover any potential duties, taxes, and penalties which may accrue. A single entry bond is prepared by the broker and covers one shipment. This fee covers the preparation of the required bond.
SOCShipper's Own Container
Steel License ProgramAll steel entering the U.S. must be licensed until 2009 as a result of an Executive Order requiring the monitoring of U.S. steel imports. This fee covers the required reporting to the U.S. Government. Once the Executive Order expires, additional duty increases may apply. A license must be obtained for each entry containing steel and is required at the time of processing U.S. Customs and Border Protection Form 7501.
Tank containerIt is used for the carriage of bulk gases and liquids like chemicals.
TariffA tax assessed by a government in accordance with its tariff schedule on goods as they enter (or leave) a country. May be imposed to protect domestic industries from imported goods and/or to generate revenue. Types include ad valorem, specific, variable, or some combination.
Temporary Importation Bond (TIB) EntryWhen merchandise is imported for temporary use into the U.S., a Temporary Importation Bond (TIB) entry may be used to allow the cargo entry into the U.S. without the payment of duties. Under a TIB, the merchandise can stay in the U.S. for one year, with the potential to obtain two, one-year extensions for a total period of three years. The TIB must be cancelled prior to exportation or there may be penalties issued by Customs & Border Protection.
Textile EntryThese are entries that primarily include textiles.
Textile Surcharge - Occasional CustomerThis fee applies to irregular importers of textiles to cover the complexity and additional time to correctly classify textile entries.
THCTerminal Handling Charge (container handling costs)
Thermal container (reefer)It has insulated walls, doors, roof, and floor, which limit the range of temperature loss or gain. It is used for perishable goods like meat, fruits and vegetables.
TIB CancellationUpon export, a TIB must be cancelled by providing U.S. Customs and Border Protection with the original entry information from which it entered into the U.S. Upon approval by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the TIB will be cancelled and duties will not be owed to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. If the TIB is not cancelled properly, U.S. Customs and Border Protection can impose a penalty.
Trans - shipmentTransshipment refers to the act of sending an exported product through an intermediate country before routing it to the country intended to be its final destination.
Ultimate ConsigneeThe ultimate consignee is the person located abroad who is the true party in interest, receiving the export for the designated end-use.
Ultimate Consignee SurchargeU.S. Customs and Border Protection requires the proper identification of the Ultimate Consignee when making an entry into the U.S. Without this information, entry into the U.S. will be denied. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires the identification number to be reported on each line item of the customs entry. This surcharge covers the broker collecting the required information and/or submitting it to CBP. The Ultimate Consignee is the party in the U.S. to whom the foreign shipper sold the imported goods. If the merchandise has not been sold, the Ultimate Consignee is defined as the party in the U.S. to whom the foreign shipper consigned the imported goods. If the imported goods have not been sold or consigned to a U.S. party, then the Ultimate Consignee is defined as the proprietor of the U.S. premises to which the goods are to be delivered. Ultimate Consignee can be identified by the Federal Employer Identification Number, Social Security Number, or U.S. Customs and Border Protection Port Assigned Number for Non- Resident Importers.
Unit Load Device (ULD)The unit load device (ULD) is the air equivalent of the ISO container. Due to its unique shape resembling an igloo, the ULD is sometimes called the igloo (or iglu). The air mode containers mainly are of the IATA (International Air Transport Association) type
Use of Importers Bond with Valid Power of AttorneyThis service is part of our base entry fee. The POA gives the customs broker the authority to submit documents and conduct other customs business on behalf of the importer. One of the requirements of a POA is that a bond must be in place. If the customer already has a Continuous bond, the only way a broker can use the importer�s bond is by the importer granting the bond user a POA. Use of Importers Bond with a valid POA is included in the base price.
Validated Export LicenseA document issued by the U.S. government authorizing the export of commodities for which written export authorization is required by law. Two types exist: an Individual Validated License (IVL) and a Special License.
Value for Customs Purposes OnlyThe U.S. Customs Service defines "value for Customs purposes only" as the value submitted on the entry documentation by the importer which may or may not reflect information from the manufacturer but in no way reflects Customs appraisement of the merchandise.
Warehouse EntryIf the merchandise does not have to be used immediately after it is imported, a warehouse entry can be made. The merchandise is held in a bonded warehouse without the payment of duties.
Warehouse Withdrawal for ConsumptionA warehouse withdrawal is the removal of freight from storage. At that time, a warehouse withdrawal is prepared to remove the freight by clearing it through Customs, paying duties, and making the cargo available to the buyer/ultimate consignee.
WharfageA charge assessed by a pier or dock owner for handling incoming or outgoing cargo
What kinds of shipments need 10+2?10+2 is for ocean cargo only. An ISF must be filed for containerized cargo, break bulk shipments, and for Ro-Ro shipments. Bulk cargo (e.g., grain, coal, oil) is exempt. Goods arriving via vessel into Canada or Mexico and subsequently trucked or railed into the U.S. are exempt from 10+2.

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Customs Brokerage - Glossary