The ISF Honeymoon Come to an End in 1 Month!

The ISF Honeymoon Comes to an End January 26th
The honeymoon phase of Importer Security Filing (ISF) will be over in less than one month. On January 26th, 2010, U.S. importers of ocean cargo will be faced with a harsh reality. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will begin issuing fines and penalties for importers who fail to file their ISFs, file late, fail to update, or fail to delete their ISFs. Penalty amounts will be $5,000 per Importer Security Filing transmission and can be as much as $10,000 per ISF.

Was your honeymoon successful? Are you ISF ready?

At this time, importers need to be very familiar with their progress reports. Customs issues these monthly progress reports to whoever is filing the ISFs in order to let them know how they are doing. The reports inform the filer about how often their ISFs are accepted or rejected as well as how timely they are filing. If you haven’t seen your progress report, you need to ask whoever is filing immediately. Remember: it is not the filer that has to pay the fine; the importer is liable for their ISFs.In order to avoid paying these stiff fines, many importers have brought their policies and procedures in house to ensure they know that they are filing timely and accurately.

The ISF consists of 10 very easily attainable data elements. Once the importer begins receiving the information, the filing is easy.It's time to create a successful ISF program.TRG Direct, an ISF and customs entry self filing provider, allows importers to file online in seconds using templates and excel uploads. Also, since the ISF is not considered customs business, many importers allow their vendors to access the ISFs under their own user names and input information, which means the information never has to go through a third party.If you haven’t started filing, don’t stress: you still have a month to practice filing penalty-free. However, you need to start filing now.

CBP has stated that the most important thing importers can do before compliance begins is to create a history with CBP by filing their ISFs. By doing so, importers may be able to mitigate any fines and penalties assessed at the beginning of compliance. Importers who have not been filing will be the first ones paying these fines.If you have been filing, you need to make sure your policies and procedures are in place and that all filings are timely and accurate. Check your progress report to see how well you’re doing. And remember, by filing yourself, you have complete control over filing timely and accurately.

We have moved, officially!

After 18 years providing import solutions from Barrington, Illinois TRG has expanded to Bozeman, Montana. November 9th marked the official opening of the new office which will now serve as the company’s headquarters. All departments have been centralized to this location. In 2005 President and managing partner, John Michel, expanded to Montana in a smaller town South of Bozeman. After years of rapid growth the company found the need to increase staff and set its sites on Bozeman.

TRG’s business is focused on U.S. Customs bond, Marine Cargo Insurance and self-filing which some might say is an odd combination for sales out of Montana. However, the company’s direct marketing approach over the years has shown that sales, if done properly, can be accomplished from any remote location. TRG caters to importers of all sizes and all locations of the U.S. and Canada. Even though few customers are actually found in Montana, the company has been able to bring a wealth of education to the local U.S. importers. http://www.trgbond.com

TRG Bond, the division specializing in U.S. Customs bonds, has placed key staff members in Montana to help facilitate sales and customer service. “Having the ability to speak face to face with our Customs bond underwriters, Claims Department and sales executives has increased productivity and the effectiveness of internal communication.” Courtney Larson, Customs Bond Administrator comments about the move.

TRG Marine Insurance will soon follow suite as Sales, Marketing and Administration will be settled into the Montana office by the first of the year. “We are expecting TRG Marine Insurance to transition into a leading product role in 2010, as our ability to present a more cohesive sales approach improves.” Gregg Cummings, National Sales Manager said, “TRG Marine’s manager’s placement in the Bozeman office will play a vital role in the development of this product.”

The Illinois office will still play an important role for TRG Direct, the web-based system for entry filing and Importer Security Filing. Members of the accounting department and direct filing customer service remain in Barrington where they share an office with TRG’s sister company, Corporation for International Business. http://www.trgdirect.com

Why is my cargo being inspected?

Have you ever wondered why CBP has chosen to inspect your cargo?

After the 9/11 terrorist attacks against the United States, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have updated their cargo examination processes in order to better protect American borders from contraband. One of these changes is the introduction of inspectional technology, known as Vehicle and Cargo Inspection System (VACIS). This system utilizes low-energy x-ray and/or low-energy gamma radiation in order to effectively inspect cargo without slowing down the import process. It also increases the number of daily inspections and since VACIS provides a better picture, physical examinations are less frequent. VACIS allows Customs to identify contraband, such as illegal drugs, currency, or guns.

CBP will identify which containers will be inspected prior to the vessel’s arrival, and the terminal must make the cargo available for CBP inspection 48 hours after arrival. If you are a direct filer you will be notified of a hold by an ABI cargo release response. CBP typically opts to inspect cargo from suspected or actual law violators. VACIS can be used at all air, sea, and land ports and for even the most difficult commodities.

If Contraband is Detected…

During the examination, the cargo is placed in a shielded enclosure, and gamma rays are sent through the cargo. The amount of gamma radiation detected informs CBP of the density and thickness of cargo, allowing them to identify contraband. It takes only seconds to scan, but it takes 30-40 minutes per container to analyze the image. If any concern arises after a VACIS scan or the shipment is high risk, the container could then go to a Container Examination Station (CES) where individual boxes or pallets are unloaded and scanned with a smaller x-ray machine. It takes about a day to unload, scan, and reload 12 containers. CTPAT members go to the front of the line if their cargo is taken to a CES.

Since CBP is unable to determine what exactly is in each container, they are looking to the importer for help. Importer Security Filing is a new initiative that will allow CBP determine which shipments are at a higher risk for National Security threats. Now that the importer is required to relay the origin, contents, etc of the container, CBP has a head start in their inspection process.

Meet TRG National Sales Manager, Gregg Cummings

The International Compliance Professional's Association just sent out an email on our very on Gregg Cummings.

1. Tell us about yourself, your company, and what services you offer.

My name is Gregg Cummings and I am the National Sales Manager for TRG. TRG is an import services provider with offices in Barrington Illinois and Bozeman Montana specializing in 3 areas: US Customs Bonds, Marine Cargo Insurance and TRG Direct, a web based application which allows an importer to direct file their Customs entry and ISF.

TRG was founded in 1991 by John Michel and provides US Custom's surety bonds directly to importers. In addition to the cost savings of buying your bond direct, importers with bonds under $1MM can also take advantage of a 3 year pricing strategy to lock in their low price for an extended period of time.
TRG Marine provides Marine Cargo insurance and has established relationships with several insurance companies enabling us to offer competitive rates for this important coverage.

Perhaps the most publicity for TRG this year has been our Direct Filing application which includes an ISF module. ISF has been a real challenge for importers to implement in difficult economic times and resource constraints and we have offered a "zero start up fee ISF only" approach to help importers learn how they can meet their ISF obligation by filing it in house and experience how bringing some of these processes in house can lower costs (only $5 per ISF) and increase control and visibility into their supply chain.

2. How did you get started in the business?

I came to the import services arena after spending 20 years in Chicago in the Brokerage industry. I sold short term securities and structured bonds to corporations which worked out very well right up until the entire industry vaporized in 2007. At that time my family had a home in Montana that we loved and took that opportunity to move here full time. It was at that time I met John Michel who was increasing the exposure of TRG in Montana and I viewed the challenge of starting something new, growing a sales force and expanding a business was very appealing.

3. What's the best piece of advice you would give a person starting in the business?

As far as advice for anyone looking to get started in this business, I would suggest that you do join an organization like the ICPA to meet a network of professionals that can be resources for your questions and growth.

4. Do you have any hobbies or hidden talents?

I don't know about hidden talents but I am quite active. My family has four horses and we all ride quite frequently. I have also run triathlon's for 20 years and just signed up to run the LA Marathon this coming March. Living in Bozeman also allows for an active ski season since I am only 8 miles from our local ski resort.

5. What's your favorite thing about ICPA?

TRG has been very involved with ICPA for years. We attend all the conferences and have many important customers and relationships with ICPA professionals. The blog is a particularly good resource for discussion and education on issues affecting an individual's import practices and supply chain.

The Renewal of Your US Customs Bond

When the time comes for your Continuous Customs bond to renew, make sure to compare your current rates with TRG's rates. We have updated our online application and every importer should look into TRG and see how easy it is to apply for the same bond direct.

“Applying for a Customs bond is already a simple process when handled by a professional company, but we need to go beyond simple. This improved application streamlines the process for the importer as well as the process for our administrative staff,” stated John Michel, TRG President. “Changes we are making internally not only relieve any sense of burden the importer may have, it also minimizes our costs to allow TRG bond prices to remain extremely competitive. In fact, we have not increased pricing on the $50,000 Importer Bond even once in our entirety.”

What is My Customs Broker Charging me for?

Quotations for customs brokerage services are usually dependent on a number of factors including the complexity of the entry, your anticipated entry volume and sometimes your level of experience in the business. The base entry fee broker’s charge is usually between $75-$100. What many importers fail to recognize is that even if they are quoted a dollar amount entry fee, that might not be all that they are paying for. If the invoice from your broker contains multiple lines of charges then this is what is commonly referred to as the laundry list fee schedule. As you can see in the chart to the right the entry fee was quoted at only $45, but the accumulation of fees resulted in an actual entry fee of $142. Many of the line items on the bill were for “out-of-pocket” payments to other service providers such as carriers, local truckers, Customs or a terminal. The remaining items on the invoice are considered revenue items or a component of the broker’s income for handling this transaction.

The bottom line is that despite thinking your base entry fee is only $75; if your invoice contains any one of these charges; your entry rate is more than $75. We recommend that you carefully review your broker’s invoices to ensure that the fees charged are consistent with the fees quoted and that the fees charged are also warranted.To access the tool TRG has created to help you decipher your own broker’s bill click here.

Certificates of Participation in TRG Direct's ISF Vendor Compliance Program

TRG Direct has released the first batch of certificates of participation in their ISF Vendor Compliance Program.

• Participants have received educational training in
  Understanding the background and the data elements of ISF,
  Awareness of the severity of penalties associated with non-compliance,
  Best practices for communicating with US importers on timely ISF data delivery,
  Ensuring policies & procedures are in place for future relationships with new US importers.

Participation in this program in no way insures the vendor/supplier will be compliant in delivery of Importer Security Filing information to the U.S. importer. Participation does however, demonstrate the vendor’s/supplier’s willingness to be fully educated on ISF and engage in ISF compliant practices.

Marine Insurance is a Hard Keyword to Crack

TRG Marine offers Marine Insurance. We have offered annual policies since 1991, when John and Laura Michel began TRG. However, keyword optimization for this product is TAXING! There are synonyms up the ying yang for marine insurance, let's see: marine cargo insurance, freight insurance, shipping insurance, cargo insurance, the list goes on and on.

With all these keywords and ALL these marine insurance providers, how do we possibly compete in the search engines for these keywords. OK, pay per click, ugghh we can only pay so much for a lead. Of course we do this, so how do we compete organically? I'm still trying to figure this out. You'll see us rank for "Marine Cargo Insurance", YAY one out of many keywords. Google us and let us know what you find!

Easy Entries vs Hard Entries l Is Direct Filing for You?

What is the ease or complexity of your import processes? Every supply chain is different. To gain a better understanding of your supply chain and the ease or difficulty of a consumption entry filing, take this short questionnaire and gather a more comprehensive view of your import entries.

How many entries do you have per year, or anticipate in the next year?*

How many tariff numbers do you have?

How many ports do you use?

How many entries are subject to Anti-dumping/Countervailing?**

How many entries are subject to quota?***

How many entries are subject to FDA or other regulatory organization?

How many are border entries, meaning they enter the US by truck from Canada or Mexico?

What commodities do you import?

Understanding your results to this survey can assist you in improving processes in-house and moving toward a best-in-class importer. If you would like to discuss these qualifying questions and how they may effect your importing, please contact Sarah Braun, sbraun@traderiskguaranty.com or 847-756-7531.

*Customs Entry is defined as “A statement of the kinds, quantities and values of goods imported together with duties, if any, that is declared before customs authorities”.

**Anti-dumping/Countervailing duties are applied when a foreign manufacturer is able to sell goods in the US less than fair value, causing injury to the US industry.

***Quotas permit a specified quantity of imported merchandise to be entered at a reduced rate of duty during the quota period. Once the tariff-rate quota limit is reached, goods may still be entered but at a higher rate of duty.

Kelby Woodard's Article on ISF

Kelby Woodard of Trade Innovations and TRG Direct recently published an article with IBT. What a Fairy Tale can Teach us About ISF.

Kelby Woodard is the Executive Vice President of TRG Direct.

View a copy of this article here: http://tradeinnovations.com/NewsDetail.aspx?NewsItemID=76

Mr. Woodard spent eleven (11) years with a mass retailer located in Minneapolis, Minnesota as the Director of Supply Chain Assets Protection. In this capacity, he and his team were instrumental in providing supply chain security expertise to the legacy US Customs Service in the months and years following the attacks of September 11th. The result of these consultations was the formation of the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program. His employer was one of the seven charter members of C-TPAT and has maintained a leadership position in defining new criteria and standards as a result of his efforts. Mr. Woodard also managed the Operation Safe Commerce project and Smart Box testing and has worked on several projects focused on the use of RFID technology to secure global commerce.

Mr. Woodard was responsible for a global security team that focused on risk analysis and mitigation strategies spanning a supply chain spread throughout 84 countries. He and his team was also responsible for significantly reducing cargo theft issues within the United States and providing assets protection services to 28 distribution centers. Prior to his experience in the private sector, Mr. Woodard served with the U.S. Customs Service in Washington, DC. Mr. Woodard holds an MBA in International Business from the University of Dallas and Certificate of Global Security Management from Georgetown University.

Mr. Woodard is a renowned expert on subjects ranging from global security to cargo theft issues and advises key congressional staffers regarding these issues on a regular basis. He has given numerous presentations around the world to groups such as the World Customs Organization (WCO), Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), International Cargo Security Council (ICSC), ECR Europe, RFID Journal Live, and Retail Forward Europe. He has also trained countless overseas vendors on the complexities of complying with US security requirements. Mr. Woodard has authored articles on the future of supply Chain within the new global security context in Loss Prevention, International Security, Supply Chain Management Review, as well as numerous other periodicals.

TRG Launches ISF Webinar for Customs Bond Holders

TRG Launches ISF Webinar for Customs Bond Holders

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TRG Direct Customer Service Blog l Jamie Dinan

TRG is pleased to announce the launch of our Customer Service blog for our direct filing software, TRG Direct. Jamie Dinan will be writting dailing on common questions asked by our customers. Whether they come from our User Group meetings or from our daily customer service helpline, these FAQs will be a help for all ISF and customs entry direct filers.

Are you ready to take control of your Importer Security Filing? With less than 5 months remaining in the informed compliance period, TRG Direct is seeing a surge in new accounts. Contact us today or apply online to bring your ISF in-house with our web-based software. Start saving today, only $3 - $5 per ISF.

Do You Operate a Foreign Trade Zone? Save On Your FTZ Bond!

What is an Activity Code 4 - Foreign Trade Zone Customs Bond?

Activity Code 4 - Foreign Trade Zone

A Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) is considered non-U.S. territory for Customs’ purposes and foreign goods placed into FTZ may be manufactured, manipulated, repacked or exported without paying duties. The Activity Code 4 Customs Surety Bond, required to be filed by all FTZ operators, is a guaranty to the U.S. government, from an insurance company, that the FTZ will follow all rules governing FTZ’s. If any rules or regulations are not followed and if any duties, fines or penalties arise as a result, the FTZ must pay Customs & Boarder Protection, and if they do not, the insurance company will be required to pay. The bond further allows the insurance company to seek any legal means to recoup any monies paid on behalf of the FTZ.

TRG Underwriting Requirements: These bonds are strictly underwritten but are available to Trade Risk Guaranty if strong financial statements or an irrevocable letter of credit are supplied.

Understanding Your U.S. Customs Bond

Check out this SlideShare Presentation:

Understanding Your U.S. Customs Bond

View more presentations from Jena Leary.

Your U.S. Customs Bond

Your U.S. Customs Bond

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Pirates at the ICPA? Don't Forget Your Marine Insurance!

It seems as though we were just at the International Compliance Professionals Association's annual seminar (actually it really wasn't that long ago). Now we find ourselves again in the beginning stages of planning for next year's event. The greatest suprise of all.....the theme! This year in Orlando, FL all of us compliance professionals will be walking around dressed as Jack Sparrow and I'm sure at least one or two jokesters will be decked out in Pittsburg Pirate gear. I hope that's no one at TRG!

Well it is still months away, but it is such a fun and educational conference that we look forward to it every year. At the conference we showcase our direct filing system, TRG Direct. We leave the Customs bonds and marine insurance at home, although with a pirate theme this year we should sneak our marine insurance in!

So that's all we know for now...pirates, but that's enough to get my head spinning! ARGGGG

ISF Software Demo

Importer Security Filing remains on the top of the list of high priorities for importers of goods via ocean cargo. TRG offers an ISF software known as TRG Direct for importers to self-file their ISF entries.

As importers search for the solution that fits into their business processes, it is imperative they take the time to learn about direct filing and view a demonstration of available systems. TRG Direct is making this easy for importers to learn about our system.

You can view a demonstration on our website as well as sign up for our Webinars. If you would like to have a personalized demonstration with our direct filing experts, we can arrange that as well.

So here are your options...

View an online demo

Sign up for our ISF software webinar

Contact us to schedule a personalized demonstration

We will make the transition into direct filing your ISF as simple as possible!

US Customs Drawback Bond

What is a Drawback Bond and how do you calculate the amount needed?

What is an Activity Code 1a - Drawback Payment Refunds Bond?

This bond allows an importer to obtain a refund of 99% of the duties paid on imported goods upon providing proof these goods were exported.

Bond Amount Calculation: Average of all estimated drawback claims in a 12 month period.

As with all Customs bonds, should your bond amount be inadequate according to Customs regulations, Customs will advise the importer and the surety company to increase the bond amount, and they will give a reasonable amount of time to do so.

TRG Underwriting Requirements: Fully complete bond application form, completed Power-of-attorney form, and most recent company financial statements.

Purchase Your Customs Bond Direct with TRG

TRG is the industry’s expert in U.S. Customs bonds. All Customs bonds are financial guarantees between 3 parties: the Insurance/Surety company issuing the bond, the Principal (who is required to file the bond), and Customs & Border Protection (CBP). The TRG customs bond guarantees Customs & Border Protection that if they cannot collect monies due from the Principal they can seek remedy, up to the bond amount, from the Insurance/Surety company. The TRG bond also indemnifies the Insurance/ Surety company, allowing them to use any legal means to collect from the Principal any monies that were paid to CBP on the Principal’s behalf.

To apply for a customs bond or get a quote please contact Sarah Braun, 847-756-7531 or sbraun@traderiskguaranty.com.

Is an Annual Marine Insurance Policy Right For You?

TRG Marine offers Marine Cargo Insurance on an annual policy basis. Whether you already have an annual policy in place, purchase CIF, or insure shipment by shipment, TRG Marine may be able to save you money on this important coverage as well.

Given the economy and the soft Marine Insurance market, now is a great time to take a few minutes to compare rates as well as assess if your current coverage is meeting your needs. We can help. I’ve attached additional information on TRG Marine’s services and would welcome the opportunity to provide you with a no obligation quote. To obtain a quote, please complete the attached application and fax or e-mail to me, or give me a call and we can go through the form over the phone.

If you have an annual policy that renews at a different time of year, or would like to discuss Marine Cargo insurance at a later date, please let me know so I can contact you at an appropriate time.

World Customs Organization 2009 Forum

Vancouver, WA (PRWEB) AUGUST 12, 2009 – The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Trusted Trade Alliance, LLC (TTA) today announced the details of the third annual World Customs Forum. This globally acclaimed forum brings together world leaders in international trade andcustoms to discuss and debate new and emerging issues confronting global trade today.

The 2009 World Customs Forum will be held on October 5th and 6th at the Bell Harbor ConferenceCenter, Seattle, Washington, USA.

This year’s theme, Trade Facilitation in a Time of Economic Crisis - Preserving the Engine of Global Economic Growth will draw speakers and participants from key sectors of theinternational trade community including supply chain practitioners, senior level governmentofficials, academia and legal advisors. With a clear focus on the need to stem the imposition ofadditional regulatory burdens on international trade in the current economic climate, the forum willaddress a broad range of pressing issues critical to the growth of global trade. Sessions willinclude vigorous discussions of the impact of government demands on commercial imperatives,emerging security mandates, coordination between national governments, cross border challengesand best practices in global import and export processes.

WCO Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya, Department of Homeland Security Secretary JanetNapolitano, Department of Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, and other high level officials fromaround the world are among the invited list of high profile speakers, with confirmed panelistsincluding Susanne Aigner from the EU Commission, Graeme Ludlow from the InternationalMonetary Fund, and a number of senior figures from the public and private sector tradecommunity on five continents. The conference is being conducted in partnership with host tradeassociation the American Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI), the Canadian nationaltrade association IE Canada, the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA), as wellas the major customs & trade associations in Europe and Asia.

The Forum will be co-chaired by Professor David Widdowson, CEO of the Centre for Customs andExcise Studies at the University of Canberra, Australia; Mr. Allen Bruford, Deputy Director,Compliance and Facilitation Directorate at the WCO; and Mr. Michael Laden, Chief Financial Officerfor TTA.

This annual event has been previously held in Europe, at WCO Headquarters in Brussels.However, the WCO and TTA believe it is essential to expand the reach of the Forum by bringing itto other key international trading centers, and this event will allow US based members of the tradecommunity to engage Customs at the world level and have first-hand exposure to WCO views and processes.

The conference is expected to sell out quickly and seating is limited. Registration will be open onAugust 11th, and can be accomplished by visiting the following link: http://www.trustedtrade.net/en/world-customs-forum/.

TRG has been offering a direct buy option on the Customs bond since 1991. WIth 18 years in the business, TRG considers itself to be an innovator in the Customs bond. The company's experience

has allowed them to offer services beyond the bond.

Barrington, IL (PRWEB) August 5, 2009 -- To many importers, the U.S. Customs bond is considered a commodity item. Even so, this government mandated "contract" is purchased on a continuous basis and therefore is a never-ending recurring cost. TRG entered the Customs bond market back in 1991 as a direct provider. Prior to offering this option, an importer purchased the bond from a Customs broker, who had obtained the bond from a Surety agent. By cutting out the middle man, TRG found a niche in the market and has grown over the past 18 years. http://www.trgbond.com/

"If they are consistently receiving a fair and competitively priced Customs bond, then we're happy to let them know they have a great provider," TRG Senior Account Executive Tony Haag said. "Beside cost savings [on the Customs bond], we are continually finding ways to set us apart from the competition. 18 years in the business allows us to offer mult-year pricing, an entry monitoring system, monthly newsletters and in-house claims mitigation."

The growth of the company has not gone unnoticed by TRG's competitors. Other Customs bond providers have made price cuts; however, many will only cut their price for one year and increase it at renewal time. TRG advertises on their website that they have only marginally increased their Customs bond rates twice since 1991 and has never increased rates on the most common Customs bond ($50,000 Importer Bond). http://www.trgbond.com/

With over 6,000 clients, TRG is making an impact in the market. The Robert Bosch Corporation said, "We want to thank you and the TRG staff for your assistance in placing our US Customs Bond. We appreciate the excellent service you have given us and the prompt responses to our inquiries. We continue to be pleased with the decision to have a specialized agency provide our US Customs Bonds and in addition save a substantial amount of money. Robert Bosch looks forward to a continuing relationship with TRG."

TRG just launched our Press Room!

See what TRG has been up to. We will continue to update this with current press releases and link to our social media profiles.

Also download our online brochures, the TRG Biography and TRG Suite of services.

Our latest release...

U.S. Customs Bonds Direct from TRG Reaches 18 Year Milestone TRG has been offering a direct buy option on the Customs bond since 1991. WIth 18 years in the business, TRG considers itself to be an innovator in the Customs bond. The company's experience has allowed them to offer services beyond the bond.

Barrington, IL (PRWEB) August 5, 2009 -- To many importers, the U.S. Customs bond is considered a commodity item. Even so, this government mandated "contract" is purchased on a continuous basis and therefore is a never-ending recurring cost. TRG entered the Customs bond market back in 1991 as a direct provider. Prior to offering this option, an importer purchased the bond from a Customs broker, who had obtained the bond from a Surety agent. By cutting out the middle man, TRG found a niche in the market and has grown over the past 18 years. www.trgbond.com

"If they are consistently receiving a fair and competitively priced Customs bond, then we're happy to let them know they have a great provider," TRG Senior Account Executive Tony Haag said. "Beside cost savings [on the Customs bond], we are continually finding ways to set us apart from the competition. 18 years in the business allows us to offer mult-year pricing, an entry monitoring system, monthly newsletters and in-house claims mitigation."

The growth of the company has not gone unnoticed by TRG's competitors. Other Customs bond providers have made price cuts; however, many will only cut their price for one year and increase it at renewal time. TRG advertises on their website that they have only marginally increased their Customs bond rates twice since 1991 and has never increased rates on the most common Customs bond ($50,000 Importer Bond).

With over 6,000 clients, TRG is making an impact in the market. The Robert Bosch Corporation said, "We want to thank you and the TRG staff for your assistance in placing our US Customs Bond. We appreciate the excellent service you have given us and the prompt responses to our inquiries. We continue to be pleased with the decision to have a specialized agency provide our US Customs Bonds and in addition save a substantial amount of money. Robert Bosch looks forward to a continuing relationship with TRG."

About TRG: TRG offers other import solutions beyond the Customs bond, including marine insurance (shipping insurance) and direct filing. Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) Brokerage Services LLC is a licensed insurance agency, having agency agreements with Hanover Insurance Company of Worcester, Massachusetts, and Great American Insurance Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, both of which are insurance companies approved by the Department of the U.S. Treasury to issue U.S. Customs bonds.

Importer Security Filing - 6 Months to Compliance

10+2 Importer Security Filing

The Importer Security Filing (ISF), also known as 10+2, is a new US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulation requiring importers and vessel carriers to provide advanced data elements electronically to CBP for non-bulk cargo shipments in-bound into the United States by vessel. The focus of this initiative is to improve CBP's ability to recognize high-risk shipments in advance to ensure the safety of America's borders. ISF went into effect January 26th 2009. As a resident or non-resident US importer, or as one of their suppliers, are you prepared to provide the required Importer Security Filing elements 24 hours prior to vessel lading? If you are not doing this today, you may be in non-compliance with the new requirements.

Mitigation Guidelines Published on July 17th

Are you still contemplating how to establish and enforce the advanced data reporting requirements under Importer Security Filing? Like anything, good communication and training is imperative, especially with something like this that carries stiff monetary penalties or that could result in a “Do Not Load” message next January and requires significant change to the current methods in place for centuries.Importer Security Filing PreparationTo reinforce the necessity for the ten (10) Importer Security Filing data (excluding the bill of lading number, called the “phantom eleventh”) elements, we strongly suggests that you consider amending your purchase order or other contractual agreements used in the transaction to require the vendor or supplier’s compliance with ISF requirements.

What Some Importers Are Doing

Some importers are also adding conditions to financial instruments like letters of credit. Placing such language in your contractual documents could prove to be a mitigating factor if CBP issues you a penalty for untimely or inaccurate data after January 2010.We also suggest that you contact and closely coordinate activities with the ocean carriers, NVOCC’s and freight forwarders that participate in your import program. Meetings between your supplier base and the carrier(s) at origin should be implemented for purposes of ironing out new protocols and procedures for issuing the bill of lading number in advance. Most major ocean carriers (Maersk, APL/NOL, Evergreen, Hanjin, NYK, K-Line, OOCL and others) are well informed on Importer Security Filing; therefore, if leveraged properly, their overseas offices can assist you with educating your vendor and supplier base. We recommend that you contact your US-based carrier representative and request their overseas offices engage problematic vendors or otherwise help you communicate this new requirement.Some importers are instituting vendor penalties through their vendor compliance programs to incentivize compliance and to help offset the potential cost of CBP penalties levied against the importer.

Suggested Notifications For Your Suppliers & Vendors

It seems that the two most troubling situations for importers right now are the inability to get the bill of lading number in advance and/or lack of suppliers and vendors. If you are currently direct filing with TRG Direct, you can access these letters within your account under Resources. Suggested reading or attachments to your correspondence might include an Adobe copy of CBP Interim Final Rule (Federal Register Notice), copies of your new company polices or procedures, copies of other publications concerning ISF, and/or letters underscoring the importance and their support for the initiative from Senior Management.

Our Importer Security Filing direct filing customers are free to use our suggested language or some variation thereof for their company or particular situation in an effort to get compliance with their ISF program; of course, the tone can also be adjusted according to personal preferences and corporate culture.

Imports Decreasing?

TRG is conducting a survey to help us determine what factors are effecting the import community. Take the short 5 question survey. We will post the results online. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=Qv3leIVS0NLLd6bdPaqbvA_3d_3d

You Don't Need to Purchase Your Customs Bond From Your Broker

Yes, you need an import bond to bring goods into the United States. No, you do not need to purchase this bond from your broker.

Odds are when you first began importing into the U.S. your broker did two things for you. 1) Purchased a customs bond from a surety agent and 2) began clearing your entries. What most importers don't know is that they can purchase the exact same bond directly from TRG. Your broker comes to a company such as TRG, purchases the bond, marks up the price and sells it to you. They are doing you a service, but you shouldn't have to pay for this service when you can easily purchase the import bond on your own.

Your Continuous Customs bond is a universal bond that is good at any port. The bond renews every year and your broker sends you a bill every year. This year, purchase it from TRG for a 3 year renewal term and notice the cost savings. Year after year this savings adds up. Get a quote and well tell you about our other services (if you don't already know).

TRG is rated A+ with the Better Business Bureau

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has implemented a new rating system for all companies within the database including Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG). Each company is rated on 17 different categories and given a letter grade from A+ to F. TRG is rated A+, the highest rating available.

The complaint history of a company is the most highly weighted of all of the factors. As of May 2009, TRG does not have any history of customer complaints through the BBB. TRG works hard to maintain positive customer relationships and values the trust it has earned from the company’s client base since 1991.

TRG import solutions offers U.S. Customs bonds, marine insurance and direct filing of consumption entries and ISF. The difference between TRG and other markets for import-related products is their marketing approach, which is reflected in their prices and excellent customer service. TRG contacts importers direct with the goal of introducing and educating. TRG is proud to have received this A+ BBB rating and will continue strive to maintain this rating.

Find out more about us at www.traderiskguaranty.com or www.trgdirect.com.

TRG Direct Produces Study on Importing

Check out this study contracted out by TRG Direct. It was conducted by an independent party, Empire Research. The main focus of this presentation is educate companies on increasing compliance and control of their import practices while driving down costs. The study addresses the many obstacles effecting every company’s import profitability, closing with a look at new ways to address these challenges.

I was going to upload this video but I will just leave this link. So click here! You can download it in Flash, Adobe and Power Point.

Lacey Act Declaration

Illegal harvesting competes with those companies complying with the rules and regulations of legitimate trade. The Lacey Act has been around for decades battling illegal trafficking of fish, wildlife and plants. In 2008 the Lacey Act was effectively amended to extend the protection to a broader range of plants, encompassing products that are derived from illegally harvested plants and require an import declaration on any plant or plant product imported into the U.S. A phased in approach is in place based on the plant´s degree of processing and complexity of its composition. As of April 1st 2009, Phase 2 plants & plant products will require a declaration. A full list of Phase 2 plants is available on TRG's website.

Are you prepared?

Have you…

◦ identified any/all products that contain plant or plant products,

◦ prioritized products based on plant,◦ determined the original purchaser of the plant or plant material,

◦ determined the plant name, source and value to be included on Lacey declaration,

◦ worked with suppliers to included Lacey information on commercial invoices?

Lacey Act Declaration (LAD)

The declaration must be made at time of importation, and include information on:

Scientific name of any plant,

A description of the value of importation,

Quantity of the plant,

Name of the country in which the plant was harvested.

If a plant species or country of origin cannot be determined, the plant declaration must include a list of possible plant species found in the product or a list of possible countries from which the plant originated.

How will you file this additional data element?

Lacey Act Declaration Addition to TRG Direct Available at No Extra Fee

Phase 2 of the Lacey Act Amendment went into effect on April 1st. TRG Direct's Web-based U.S. Customs entry filing system was ready for this additional data at no extra charge.

Importer's filing consumption entries with TRG Direct (who are subject to the Lacey Act Amendment) were able to begin filing the LAD on April 1st. This addition to the Web-based direct filing system comes at no additional fee to the importer. Customs entries are priced at either $20 or $30 depending on the importer's volume. Thus cost remains the same even with this upgraded feature.

The Lacey Act consists of approximately 19 data elements that need to be filed with Cargo Release and Entry Summary. Cargo Release and Entry Summary already capture some of the required information. The Lacy Act (PG) data set will capture the additional data elements such as: Intended use, description, name of constituent element, quantity of constituent element, unit of measure, percent of constituent element, Participating Government Agency (PGA) line value, scientific genus name, scientific species name container number, source type and source country code.

With TRG Direct this addition has been added to the system as an OGA or Other Government Agency dropdown. It is intended to act much like an FDA regulation. TRG Direct is completely Web-based. This keeps costs down for customers when an entry requirement change is made. There is no need for the importer to engage their IT department for system upgrades. TRG Direct takes care of it all.

Rare Medical Condition Affects Importers: Losuvimp Ortsitis

Throughout the years importers have witnessed the many effects the economy has on their import practices. Today’s economic times are no different, but this year a strange medical and highly contagious virus has blindsided many U.S. importers. Losuvimp Ortsitis has made its way to the U.S. where vaccinations are still in the testing phase. The World Customs Organization predicts that global trade will fall 9% in value this year. We have reason to believe the majority of this sudden downturn is due to Losuvimp Ortsitis. This condition strikes fast are you ready?

So what is Losuvimp Ortsitis?

In medical terms Losuvimp Ortsitis (Loss • of • imports • itis) is the inflammation of the loss of one company’s import practices. This condition is found mainly in small to medium sized enterprises but no matter how severe, the side effects are not always permanent. Many companies who are diagnosed with Losuvimp Ortsitis decide to purchase single entry bonds in order to ensure their shipments. This may seem like a temporary cost savings, but in most situations this is the least economical decision and may actually feed the virus. Depending on the value of the shipment a single entry bond could be anywhere from $55 - $400.

Is there a cure?

At this time no preventative cure is available to stop your company from experiencing Losuvimp Ortsitis, however there is a prescription to help alleviate the symptoms.

Introducing the Low Volume Continuous Import Bond (LVI):

Importers who have always or now import less than 5 shipments with less than $5,000 in duties NEED this bond. Companies such as TRG offer special pricing on the continuous import bond allowing companies to maintain their practices even at a low volume. This bond is can be priced as low as $200 per year.

This bond is the same as any other continuous import bond, but special provisions all for the lower pricing. If you decide to apply for this bond you here are some typical "special conditions" you would have to meet in order to qualify for the continuous US customs bond.

Low-Volume Importer Special conditions:

•Entries per year must be less than 5. Should total entries grow to 5 or more during any 12 month period of the bond, you will be billed the difference between the Special rate and the Standard rate.
•Total duties paid to CBP per year must be less than $5,000.
•Should duty bills reach or exceed $5,000 during any 12 month period of the bond term, you will be billed the difference between the Special and the Standard rate.
•Discounted multi-year pricing is available if you must revert to Standard pricing.
•Financial statements may be required by underwriting.
•This offer does not apply to importers subject to FDA regulations or Anti-Dumping or Countervailing Duties.
•The underwriter should be an A.M. Best A-Rated company.

The fact of the matter is that is you are purchasing multiple single entry bonds in one year, you are probably over paying for your US customs bond. If you choose to go for a low volume bond I suggest making sure the pricing on the company's "standard rates" for the continuous customs bonds are also below the industry average in pricing.