The Port Maintenance Fee (HMF) is a charge imposed by U.S. Customs on ocean imports, calculated at 0.125% of the declared value of goods. This fee does not apply if goods are routed through Canada to the U.S. Businesses need to fully understand the implications of this fee and plan their shipping strategies effectively to reduce overall costs and enhance competitiveness.
Customs valuation is a critical process for determining the tariff value of imported goods, encompassing six main methods, from transaction value to alternative methods. This framework ensures fairness and transparency in international trade.
This article discusses the requirements for country of origin labeling for imported goods in the United States. It emphasizes the importance of this labeling in protecting consumer rights and outlines how to achieve compliance. Businesses must ensure clear indication of the country of origin to maintain brand reputation and consumer trust.
This article explores the definition and function of the Employer Identification Number (EIN) and its significance in international trade. It highlights the necessity for businesses to have this identification when interacting with U.S. customs and tax authorities, as well as the importance of applying for an EIN or CAIN through Flexport.
This article explores how to effectively utilize international trade terms (Incoterms® 2020) to manage tariff risks in international trade. It analyzes the allocation of responsibilities under various terms and provides practical recommendations to cope with tariff fluctuations, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in the global market.
This guide explores how to effectively manage tariff risks using the International Commercial Terms (Incoterms® 2020). The article analyzes the significance of these rules amidst tariff fluctuations, clarifies the distribution of responsibilities under different terms, and offers practical advice on how to adapt to policy changes, aiming to help businesses optimize their cross-border transactions.
This article explores how Value Added Tax (VAT) serves as a facilitator of fair competition in international trade, distinguishing it from tariffs. VAT achieves tax neutrality through a multi-stage payment mechanism, providing equal opportunities for all businesses, ensuring that goods are taxed in the consuming country rather than the producing country, thereby promoting growth in international trade.
This article introduces several tools and services provided by the World Customs Organization (WCO), including trade tools, a publication store, customs enforcement networks, an online learning platform, and a single window interactive map. These resources aim to promote the standardization and efficiency of international trade, enhance the capabilities of customs professionals, and ultimately contribute to the sustainable development of the global economy.
The article discusses the non-binding recommendations of the World Customs Organization (WCO) regarding the Harmonized System (HS) for customs coordination. It emphasizes the important role these recommendations play in promoting international trade and investment, urging customs authorities in various countries to adopt them to enhance policy consistency and effectiveness.
This article explores how customs and related departments can enhance collaboration and efficiency through the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Revised Kyoto Convention, promoting smooth international trade and reducing cargo clearance times.
