New to importing, or just want to understand what your customs broker actually does? These guides break down the essentials of clearing cargo through Los Angeles in plain language, no jargon required.
The First-Time Importer's Guide
If you are importing for the first time, here is the path from purchase order to delivered goods:
- Get your paperwork in order. Your supplier provides a commercial invoice and packing list; your carrier provides the bill of lading or air waybill. These three documents drive the entire clearance.
- File your ISF (ocean only). For ocean cargo, Importer Security Filing is due at least 24 hours before loading overseas. Miss it and you risk a $5,000 penalty.
- Classify your goods. Every product has an HTS code that sets your duty rate. Getting it right protects you from overpaying and from penalties.
- Post a bond. You need a customs bond to clear commercial cargo. Regular importers usually choose a continuous bond.
- File the entry and pay duty. We submit your entry through ACE, calculate your duties, and secure release.
- Move the cargo. We coordinate drayage off the terminal and, if needed, warehousing and distribution to your door.
Understanding Duties, Tariffs, and Fees
Your total landed cost is more than the price of the goods. Expect:
- Customs duty based on your HTS classification and the customs value of the goods.
- Merchandise Processing Fee and Harbor Maintenance Fee assessed by CBP on most shipments.
- Bond and brokerage fees for the clearance itself.
- Possible partner-agency costs if the FDA, USDA, or another agency is involved.
We give you a clear picture of these costs up front so there are no surprises.
Importer Glossary
A quick reference for the terms you will hear:
- ISF (10+2): Importer Security Filing, required for ocean cargo before loading.
- HTS: Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the classification system that sets duty rates.
- ACE: Automated Commercial Environment, CBP's electronic filing system.
- Demurrage: a daily charge when your container sits at the terminal past free time.
- Per-diem: a daily charge from the carrier when you hold their container too long.
- Drayage: short-haul trucking from the terminal to a warehouse.
- PGA: Partner Government Agency, such as the FDA or USDA, with its own requirements.
- Bonded warehouse: storage under customs control where duty is deferred.