Maersk Customs Services in United States of America

Please refer to the pricing schedule shared with you.

In the US, most cargo is processed and released before its arrival, however there are things that can cause delays; missing mandatory documents, Customs or other agency holds or exams, vessel delays are just some examples of potential delays. Talk to your sales representative about how to prepare and mitigate risk additional costs related to delayed Customs release.

In the US, most cargo is processed and released before its arrival, however there are things that can cause delays; missing mandatory documents, Customs or other agency holds or exams, vessel delays are just some examples of potential delays. Talk to your sales representative about how to prepare and mitigate risk additional costs related to delayed Customs release.

Commercial documents, including a commercial invoice, a packing list, bill of lading or cargo receipt are required to be completed in English and contain detailed and specific information. Additional documents may be required depending on the commodities imported.

Importers are expected to understand their obligations and responsibilities surrounding compliance with laws and regulations governing their products. For more information follow the link to CBPs publication on import basics. Click here.

Depending on the commodity there are many other agencies that govern and monitor the import of cargo into the US with an aim of protecting the American consumer. Agencies like FDA, NHTSA, Fish & Wildlife, FCC and more access data collected at the time an entry is filed to review before release can be obtained. The Maersk team is knowledgeable in all types of imports and can help you navigate other agency requirements.

Unless exempt, all imported goods are subject to duties and taxes based on their tariff classification according to the Harmonized Classification Number. Certain commodities can be assessed with other taxes – including anti-dumping and excise duties. In the US, CBP assesses various fees which are also paid at the time of entry. Fees can be driven by commodity (e.g. cotton fee, beef fee), by mode of transportation, or by other importing conditions.

The rate of duties and taxes payable on any given product is entirely dependent on the type of goods imported and the Customs Tariff. Origin and end use can also affect the duty rate assigned to your product line. It is important to ensure that the description of your merchandise is clear and accurate to ascertain the correct tariff number. Our team of consultants can help provide classification assistance in advance of importation at your request. Should an error occur and duties be overpaid, there are methods to correct entries after they are filed; certain limitations and time-constraints may apply.

Yes. We provide a variety of training solutions for your teams; seminars, webinars, or individual training classes can be provided at your request.

We can assist with the document preparation and collection as well as review both your transactions and internal procedures in preparation for your audit. As well, we can provide in-person representation and guidance throughout the audit process.

We can provide product classification as an ad-hoc solution or as an ongoing project. Detailed product descriptions along with supporting details like ingredients or content listings, construction, packaging details and more may be required depending on the commodity.

The following documents are required to set up an account:

• POA (Power of Attorney) – this legal document assigns the ability to sign entry declarations on your behalf.  Please follow the instructions carefully; the document must be executed by a duly authorized individual and must include identity validation.  Additional details may be required for foreign importers.
• A surety bond.  Surety bonds are a guarantee that the importer will comply with all import rules and regulations and that all duties and charges will be paid. We will help you obtain a bond if you do not already have one.
• A signed rate agreement. As a part of our onboarding discussions, we will provide you with a written explanation of our charges. Simply return a signed copy acknowledging the rates quoted.