Customs Bonds

Protection For Importers And Exporters Goods

Customs Bonds

What is a Customs Bond?

Customs bonds are a necessary part of importing goods. A customs bond covers the payment of duties and taxes to the U.S. government for imported goods. Customs bonds are required to cover shipments entering the USA by sea and by air.

The import customs clearance and customs import bond process can be difficult to master on your own, whether you are importing furniture from China, importing wood to the USA or any other import process. Azure Risk will help to ensure your imports are cleared through customs efficiently and in compliance with customs laws.

Note: Although Customs Bonds, as defined here, are US-specific, other countries’ relevant customs authorities may require a similar instrument to guarantee payment of duties.

With Azure Risk’s fast, affordable and simple approach to bonds, no collateral or financial statements are required.*

Get started with our easy application process. In most cases, replacements of existing bonds are completed in a 48-hour turnaround. We welcome applications from companies of all sizes.

WCA members receive special, discounted rates and a streamlined bond application process.

*Financial statement and collateral may be required for Non-USA WCAworld members seeking the USD$150,000 NVOCC Bond.

What does a Customs Bond cover?

A Customs Bond ensures that your duties and taxes will be paid. You can face fines or delays without the proper customs bond. Even in extreme circumstances, such as the closure of your business or bankruptcy, you’ll be covered.

If you decide to work with a Licensed Customs Broker, the broker’s customs bond can be used to secure your transaction.

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When is a Customs Bond required?

In the USA, commercial shipments valued at over $2,500, including shipments of duty-free items, require Customs Bonds.

A Customs Bond is also required when you are importing goods subject to other U.S. federal agencies’ requirements. Other U.S. government agencies that oversee imports and will require the purchase of a customs bond include:

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
Consumer Product Safety Commission
Department of Transportation
Environmental Protection Agency
Food and Drug Administration
U.S. Department of Agriculture
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

According to information from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), you’ll also need to get a customs bond if you are a domestic carrier transporting cargo by air, sea, or vehicle if the cargo is “IN BOND”.

The customs bond is required even if you are just transporting “IN BOND” cargo from one state to another.

When a bond is required, CBP will not release your goods until the bond is posted or the taxes and duties have been paid in cash upfront. Once a bond is posted, you can walk away with your goods and have ten days to pay duties.

You will also need a customs bond if you’re a warehouse or facility operator who wants to store imported or exported goods. You also need to apply with the closest port director to determine the type of warehousing is required for imported commodities.