April ’24 at-a-glance … taxes, tariffs & trade

Vague cargo descriptions no longer allowed by CBP

U.S. Customs & Border Patrol (CBP) has begun requiring specific cargo descriptions rather than vague descriptions like “daily necessities,” “accessories” and “parts.” Carriers and other parties filing electronic cargo information data with CBP must provide a precise description of the cargo. In most cases, CBP will send messages requesting these descriptions via ACE Cargo Release after release of the cargo. Brokers and importers are expected to process these messages and work to correct the issue with the shipper and bill of lading issuer for compliance on future shipments.