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Eastern Europe Shipping Blog

Expert tips on smarter shipping between the U.S. and Eastern Europe, including shipping of heavy goods.

What Is an Importer of Record?

 

An Importer of Record (IOR) is the party to a transaction responsible for ensuring that imported goods meet the legal and regulatory requirements of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This is hugely important because non-compliance with customs regulations carries serious consequences, including legal liability, fees and even seizure of cargo or suspension of an import license.

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The Top Blog Posts of 2024

 

We end each year by sharing our most popular posts by readership of the past year. Not surprisingly, each of 2024’s top blog articles answers a question. Read on to see what others found so interesting.

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Shipping HS Codes: Know the Basics

 

If you’re involved in international trade and shipping, you need to become familiar with the HS (Harmonized System) Code for your products. Let’s unpack shipping HS Codes (also known as HS codes or commodity codes) – what they are, how they work, and why they are important. We’ll also demystify HS Codes by addressing common questions that arise, and explain how an experienced customs broker can help you navigate the complexities.

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When is a Customs Bond Required?

I.C.E. Transport | Jun 25, 2024, 7:30:00 AM | freight brokers, Customs clearance

 

If you’re importing goods into the USA, it’s important to know the answer to the question: When is a customs bond required? The majority of goods being imported into the USA require a customs bond as part of the entry process.

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Navigating Customs Bonds: A Primer for Importers

I.C.E. Transport | Feb 9, 2024, 11:10:43 AM | Customs clearance

 

If you’re importing goods into the United States, you’ll need to become familiar with customs bonds, and the process for obtaining them. Their purpose is simple: to guarantee that the shipper, or importer of record, pays all relevant duties, taxes and fees on imported goods, and the government gets its due.

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Understanding customs brokerage services

I.C.E. Transport | Jan 18, 2024, 7:00:00 AM | Customs clearance

No law says you must hire a customs broker to help you clear imports into the US. But a smart importer, whether large or small, usually engages with an expert for customs brokerage services.

Following is a primer on customs brokerage and how a licensed broker can help you clear shipments quickly through Customs, keep you compliant with all regulations, and help you avoid costly mistakes.

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HS Code Changes: What You Should Know

I.C.E. Transport | Sep 28, 2023, 7:30:00 AM | ocean shipping, Customs clearance

 

In our era of globalization, goods and materials are crossing borders constantly. The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System – commonly known as the Harmonized System (HS) – is like a universal language that ensures everyone understands what products are being traded, no matter where they come from or where they're going.

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Avoiding an ISF Late Filing Fee

I.C.E. Transport | Aug 15, 2023, 11:20:55 AM | Regulations, ocean shipping, Customs clearance

 

If you've ever imported something from abroad, you're familiar with the many regulations and requirements that govern the global movement of goods. One of these requirements is an Importer Security Filing, or ISF.

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Finding Shipping Companies for UK to USA Ocean Freight

 

The USA is the UK’s no. 1 export partner – accounting for more than a third of goods exports in 2022. In a sea of options for shipping companies UK to USA, finding a reliable and cost-effective partner can seem daunting, especially when it comes to heavy and oversized cargo.

Whether you’re a small shipper or a seasoned UK freight forwarder looking for a stateside partner, there are some key factors to consider in your search.

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Advantages of a Customs Broker in NJ

I.C.E. Transport | May 11, 2023, 7:30:00 AM | ocean shipping, Customs clearance

 

America's East Coast import volume is on the rise relative to West Coast ports. If you’re shipping goods into the region, working with a local customs broker in NJ can help you clear imports quickly and smoothly.

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