TRG Import Solutions l Customs Bonds l Marine Insurance l Self Filing

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) Loyalty Program Offers Customs Bond Holders New Courtesy Services & Discounts

2011-06-16T13:42:00.000-07:00

With the purchase of a US Customs Import Bond, Trade Risk Guaranty automatically enrolls the customer in TRG’s Loyalty Rewards program. Customers can take advantage of TRG staff’s bond assistance and the special rewards included in the Loyalty Rewards program

Bozeman, MT, March 25, 2011 — TRG recently implemented a Loyalty Rewards program within the company. The new program provides customers with additional resources that they can take advantage of such as in-house claims assistance and online reporting. In addition, the Loyalty Rewards program offers customers specialty rewards such as co-principle filing and net worth discounts.

Last week, Trade Risk Guaranty released the company’s monthly article called the TRG Trade Spotlight that featured one of the benefits of the Loyalty Rewards program. The topic of the article was Manifest Confidentiality, and it informed customers on how to keep their company’s import data from going public. Manifest data security assistance is one of the benefits a customer receives when enrolled in the Loyalty Rewards program. If you would like to receive the TRG Trade Spotlight, visit http://traderiskguaranty.com/NewsLetterSignUp.aspx to sign up today.

Kathryn Shaw, TRG’s Marketing Analyst, says that the new Loyalty Rewards program will be incredibly beneficial to TRG clients. “We have seen some great feedback from customers who have recently received our monthly article informing them how to keep their company’s import data from going public,” Shaw said, “and that is just one of the benefits customers receive with the Loyalty Rewards program.”

The Loyalty Rewards Program was designed to help customers see the benefits of choosing TRG for the placement of their US Customs import bond. If you would like to learn more about Trade Risk Guaranty’s Loyalty Rewards program, visit http://traderiskguaranty.com/loyalty.aspx

About TRG:
TRG is an import solutions provider marketing its products directly to the importer. These products include U.S. Customs import bonds, shipping insurance (freight insurance) and direct filing of U.S. Customs entries and Importer Security 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.

Contact:
Kathryn Shaw
Trade Risk Guaranty (TRGO
406-922-6525
406-922-6501
kshaw@traderiskguaranty.com
www.traderiskguaranty.com

We are running a survey to see how we are doing, and we have received some amazing customer feedback!

2011-03-03T11:44:00.001-08:00

We are running a survey to see how we are doing, and we have received some amazing customer feedback!

Here are some of the great customer comments we received, thanks to everyone who participated! We are lucky to have such terrific customers.

“Professional, good to deal with. I get the impression that I would be less likely to experience customs issues working with TRG than with other brokers. Good company and I think it is very cool that you relocated to Bozeman - good for you guys!”

“I was contacted by one of your people who explained the bond process to me and told me how I could save money with you and made the whole process easy. Very professional!”

“I had a lot of help with understanding what my company needs as a customs bond. The bond prices were excellent and will use TRG hopefully for years to come. Thanks.”

“Very happy with rate and coverage of our current bond. We have been with you several years and there has never been any problems.”

“I have found TRG to be helpful with any questions I ask. I also appreciate their website being user friendly.”

“What I love about renewing our custom’s bond with TRG is the friendly service, quick turn around and the wealth of knowledge the service team has. All questions are answered promptly. I was not sure how to change our physical address on the bond but all I had to do was to call TRG and they new the answers and guided me through it. Thanks”

“TRG’s staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. They always keep their customers well informed of new products and any issues with the current ones. They are a pleasure to work with. Our bond renewal is always flawless and they have made our transition to an ISF self-filer seamless! Thanks to them all!”

“TRG has provided me with one of the best customer experience. Fast and reliable service.”

“I’ve always had great experience in dealing with the TRG folks. They seem to be extremely customer-focused.”

“My experience with TRG has been most helpful to our company in that TRG was very knowledgeable and informative about bonds and how buying direct could and did save us money. Personable staff that knows how to market without being an annoying sales person just trying to make commission. Overall I am pleased with our relationship with TRG and look forward to making our business together better, stronger, safer and insured!”

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) Celebrates Blue Ribbon Cutting Event

2011-02-28T14:29:00.001-08:00

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) joined the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce in August, 2010 and celebrated their first Blue Ribbon Cutting event last week, February 10, 2011 at their Main Street office.

Bozeman, MT, February 28, 2011 — Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) joined the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce and recently officialized their membership by hosting the company’s Blue Ribbon Cutting ceremony at TRG’s Main Street office in Bozeman, Montana. TRG is becoming very involved with the Chamber and all the services they offer. Members of the TRG staff regularly attend Chamber events such as business after hours where they have the opportunity to network with other Bozeman Chamber members and local business owners.

The Blue Ribbon Cutting ceremony consisted of the cutting of the ribbon along with a speech given by TRG founder John Michel followed by a letter from Senator Baucus presented by Brianne Dugan. TRG offered hors d’oeuvres and beverages to their guests during the social networking hour that concluded the event. In attendance for the Ribbon Cutting ceremony was the TRG staff, members of the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce, and local business owners from the Bozeman area.

This is just the beginning of TRG’s involvement with the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber offers many great ways to become involved with the Bozeman community along with connecting with other local members of the Chamber and other Bozeman business owners. In addition, the Chamber offers some great resources in regards to marketing TRG to the community and aiding in the assistance of finding new members to join TRG’s ever-growing staff.

http://traderiskguaranty.com/Employment.aspx

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) Opens Second Location in Bozeman, Montana

2011-02-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) now has a second office located at 1822 W Lincoln in Bozeman, Montana. Due to the increased number of positions being offered within TRG, a second location was necessary in order to accommodate the company’s continued growth.

At the beginning of 2011, Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) opened a new office. TRG’s second location was officially up and running on the 3rd of January and now offices the company’s marketing and administrative staff. TRG recently filled three new positions in their marketing department and needed more space for the increasing number of employees joining the TRG staff.

TRG has created a new position within the company for lead development growth. TRG is continuously searching for part-time employees to fill these positions. The company is putting a great deal of time and effort into targeting Montana State University (MSU) students to recruit for the Lead Developer positions. One of the ways that TRG is reaching out to MSU students and alumni is by attending the February 2011 MSU Career fair at the University.
http://traderiskguaranty.com/Employment.aspx

TRG’s original location on Main Street in Bozeman has now become primarily a sales office for the company. Along with all the new positions being filled at TRG’s second office, the Main Street office continues to look for full-time sales executives to join the sales team at their downtown office.

To ensure that the company continues to stay up-to-date on the activities and accomplishments happening in each department after the opening of the second office, the company has implemented a bi-monthly meeting that all TRG employees are encouraged to attend. The meeting focuses on bringing the staff together as a team and sharing their monthly goals along with participating in role playing exercises and welcoming new members to the TRG staff.

Kathryn Shaw, TRG’s Marketing Analyst, feels that the bi-monthly meetings help employees at TRG feel connected after the move to the new office. “TRG’s bi-monthly meetings are a great way for the entire staff to stay in touch and up-to-date with what is happening in the different departments of the company. It also allows us to have a chance to follow up with other TRG members and discuss each other’s monthly accomplishments and goals.”

About TRG:
TRG is an import solutions provider marketing its products directly to the importer. These products include U.S. Customs import bonds, shipping insurance (freight insurance) and direct filing of U.S. Customs entries and Importer Security 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.

5 Things to Know About Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) Classification

2011-02-15T13:10:00.000-08:00

1. HTS codes are a global tool. The World Customs Organization (WCO) maintains the Harmonized Tariff Description and Coding System (HTS). Over 170 countries participate in WCO’s HTS system. The first six digits of the HTS code identify all items in international trade and are the same for all countries that use the HTS. The last two or four digits are country specific; in the U.S. these last four digits provide the duty rate and balance of trade statistical reporting suffix for the imported goods.

2. As an importer, you are responsible for establishing the correct HTS classifications used on your import entries and/or ISF security filings. This is why it is important to establish that accurate information about your products is reported to CBP and to not completely rely on third parties to guess about your products to provide HTS classifications on your behalf. It is the importer’s responsibility to supply sufficient information about the imported goods so that a customs expert may determine the proper classifications of those goods.

3. You could be paying too much by using the wrong HTS code. The HTS is primarily a classification system to uniformly identify products and secondarily a tariff system on imported goods. Using the wrong HTS will result in an incorrect payment of duties whether too little or too much, this creates an issue for CBP in their revenue collection mission and may result in them issuing penalties for failure to provide correct and accurate information to CBP.

4. If you have been using the wrong HTS codes, it is not too late to fix your mistake and avoid costly fines. If you find out you have been using the wrong HTS code and have been paying too much or too little, you can file a Post-Entry Amendment (PEA) to pay any additional owed duties or to request a refund for overpayment. If the entry has already been liquidated (usually 315 days after entry), an administrative protest can be filed up to 180 days after liquidation of the entry.

5. HTS codes are not static. Worldwide the HTS is being updated and changed to allow for new product innovations and technology. In addition, governments are evaluating new revenue sources and seeking to balance their trade with other countries. In the U.S. when an HTS code is created, it has an expiration date to allow for updates. Because of this, it is important to constantly ensure that the codes you are using are valid. The correct classification of imported goods is an ongoing project, and the HTS codes used should be reviewed at minimum, on an annual basis.

TRG Launches Low-Cost Web-Based HTS Classification Tool for U.S. Importers

2010-12-21T13:28:00.000-08:00

TRG Classify™ is an online classification tool that allows you, the importer of record, to classify your good and attain the 6 and 10 digit tariff codes in a few quick and easy steps. To do this, TRG Classify consolidates your general product description by applying the tariff schedule’s “General Rules of Interpretation” to intuitively provide the user with the exact tariff number needed to calculate correct duties.

Bozeman, MT December 21, 2010

Law requires US importers to declare all products they import by means of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. The process of identifying the HTS code assigned to a good is referred to as HTS classification. U.S. importers face many key challenges regarding the classification of their imported commodities. TRG Classify™ offers U.S. importers a web based in house solution that is both accurate, affordable, and time efficient. http://www.trgclassify.com

TRG Classify presents a resolution to the following classification problems importers deal with on a day-to-day basis:

□ Overpayment of Customs duty due to inaccurate classification
□ The importer of record’s legal liabilities associated with any misclassification of products even if the HTS Classification is done by a third party
□ Inability to identify business opportunities with countries offering preferential tariff arrangements
□ Shipments delayed at Customs because of improper or untimely product information
□ A need to meet government requirements to participate actively and use diligence in preparing Customs declarations

Designed specifically for the end user, TRG Classify™ takes any product description no matter how it is expressed and delivers the corresponding HTS code and duty rate. TRG is offering this service for a $2 per classification fee and no start up cost! It is available as a stand alone application or as an addition to the company’s Customs entry and ISF self-filing tool, TRG Direct™. http://www.trgclassify.com

About Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG)
Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) is an import solutions provider. The company provides innovative products and services to companies involved in international trade. Since 1991, TRG has been the leader in providing U.S. Customs bonds direct to importers. The company has also developed a direct filing system, TRG Direct™, for importers to bring entry and Importer Security Filing clearance in-house. TRG also operates a cargo insurance division, TRG Marine™. TRG Marine™ constructs specialty all-risk insurance policies designed specifically for companies operating in a global environment.

Contact:

Jena Leary
TRG
Marketing Director
jleary@trgdirect.com
406-922-6553

TRG is in Search of New Lead Developers

2010-11-17T13:35:00.000-08:00

Lead Developer: We will be hiring for this position in phases. The first two openings must be filled by January 10th. The next hiring phase will not be until May. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Position Description: A lead developer works to generate new leads for the sales team. Making 11 – 12 B2B calls per hour, a great lead developer is comfortable on the phone, highly organized and results driven. TRG’s Marketing Department is looking for two part-time lead developers to build the company database and ensure growth within the sales department for the coming years. Your day-to-day responsibilities will be to contact companies from a list of U.S. Importers, find the person in charge of the company’s U.S. Customs bond, and introduce TRG.

Requirements: TRG is accepting applications from competitive, motivated, self-starters who are able to communicate effectively over the phone. This is not a sales position but requires a high level of understanding of our products, which will be covered in training. The faster you learn the position, the faster your paycheck grows.

Compensation: The best part about this job is that it is offered with a base pay plus incentives. The harder and faster you work, the more money you will make. We want motivated people to join our team. Work for a company that rewards you for being forward thinking and incorporating your great ideas into your daily processes.

The base pay is $8/hour. Additional compensation is paid out monthly and dependent on your individual results.

Please send resumes and cover letters electronically to jleary@traderiskguaranty.com, or via mail to:

Jena Leary
TRG
140 East Main Street, Suite G
Bozeman, MT 59718

Import Bond Questions of the Day

2010-11-15T13:42:00.001-08:00

The following are questions that we received from a company interested in purchasing a $50,000US Import Bond with TRG. These are commonly asked questions we receive from companies that would like to learn more about TRG and the products we have to offer. Please feel free to add your own questions, we would love to hear from you.

Q: Do I understand correctly that if we decide to go with TRG Bond that we would pay only $750.00US for a 3 Year Import Bond and this would cover us for the next 3 years?

A: You are correct, if you do choose to go with TRG for the placement of your US Customs import bond the pricing will be $750 for 3 years which averages out to be $250 a year. There are no hidden fees. $750 would be all you would need to pay in order to renew your import bond for the next 3 years (2011-2013) with TRG.

Q: After the 3 year period, we would pay $395.00US per year to have our bond renewed yearly, correct? Or we could pay $895.00US for another 3 year period for our bond which would cover the years of 2014,2015, & 2016. Am I correct here, as well? I am being told by other companies to make sure that you really do mean that the price is a total of $750 for 3 years, which equals $250US per year, because they have heard from other clients that with Trade Risk Guaranty you pay $250 the first year, then $350 the second year, and then $750 for every year thereafter. I do not get this at all from what you have written to me and I hope this isn't true because it doesn't seem equitable and true at all by what is written.

A: If you were to choose to renew your bond with us for an additional 3 years the price would be $895, which equals $298.33 per year, and that would cover you for the next 3 years (2014-2016). The only difference between our promotional pricing for new customers and our standard pricing is the underwriting fee. We waive the underwriting fee for our new customers.

I am unsure as to where the companies you have spoken with have come to the conclusion that you pay $250 for the 1st year than $350 for the following year and so on. Let me assure you that our pricing does not work that way. If you choose to go with a 3 year bond you will ONLY pay the $750 and you will be covered for 3 years. Same goes for the 1 and 2 year bond. If you choose to go with only a one year bond the price would be $300, and if you chose to go with a 2 year bond the price would be $525 (or $262.50 per year).

Q: My company has a Co-Principal, is there an additional cost for that, if so, how much?

A: We do charge a one time fee for adding a Co-Principal to a bond. For example, if you were to choose the 3 year bond we would add $50 to the $750 which would equal $800; or if you were to choose to go with the 2 year bond we would add $50 to the $525 and the total for the 2 year bond with a co-principal would be $575.

Q: If everything worked out and we were able to get our bond through TRG, I need to be able to assure that this is going to work out well for us. What we don't want to happen is for TRG to say something along the lines of "Oh, that is something your broker takes care of." and then we proceed to speak with our broker and they say "Well, because you have your bond with another company we don't deal with that situation." This would have to work very smoothly. We would need to be able to get whatever they might need at anytime and right away. Do you think your company would be able to care for us taking all the above into consideration? Are you willing to address the above concerns?

A: The process of purchasing your bond directly through the surety is the same process your FF goes through to secure a bond for you. They contact a company just like us, purchase the bond for you and sell it back to you. Your FF does nothing different in securing the bond for you other than being the 3rd party involved. When you purchase the bond directly you can use any broker/FF to clear your entries for you. The process of entry clearance will remain the same and handled through your current FF. TRG is not a Customs broker, we simply become your direct contact to the surety. Once you have the new bond information from us, you simply supply that information to your broker/FF. We do ask, that if you should choose TRG, to not notify your broker until we have processed the bond. This will make sure that your FF does not place a termination notice prior to us placing the new bond, causing a lapse in coverage. We take care of terminating your current bond and at the same time we replace it with the new bond.

You can contact our bond department at anytime with any questions regarding your bond. We’re here to help. With TRG, you also have free access to our system called Eagle Eye. With Eagle Eye you can look up your bond information, query all entry information for those that were entered on your bond as well as supplemental duty bills and liquidated damages reports. We pride ourselves on our customer service and ability to provide you with the information you need.

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) Attends 2010 MSU Homecoming Events

2010-11-12T12:58:00.000-08:00

On the evening of Friday, October 8, and the early morning of Saturday, October 9, Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) showed up to support the Montana State University Bobcats during their Homecoming festivities. TRG participated in the Homecoming events by distributing Bobcat-themed koozies, blue and gold balloons, and TRG mugs.

Bozeman, MT (PRWEB) 1 November 2010 - Many of TRG’s current employees proudly graduated from Montana State University, located in Bozeman. When given the opportunity, the TRG staff enjoys getting out and supporting their local team. At this year’s MSU Homecoming Parade and Pep-Rally, TRG supported the Bobcats while promoting TRG by handing out Bobcat-themed TRG materials.”

TRG focused on searching for talented individuals to join their sales team at the Homecoming events. TRG is a growing company and is in need of motivated sales members that are interested in becoming part of the TRG team. TRG likes to recruit new employees from MSU because TRG is aware of the outstanding education MSU graduates have received while attending Montana State University.

Kathryn Shaw, TRG’s Marketing Analyst, eagerly joined the TRG team after graduating from MSU last spring. “I was incredibly fortunate to find such a great career with TRG after graduation,” Shaw states. “It not only allows me to use my degree in marketing but also allows me to continue to live and work in Bozeman.”

TRG is currently in search of individuals to fill the positions of full time sales support representatives along with full time sales executives. As the leader in direct marketing of do-it-yourself trade facilitation products, TRG is thriving and continues to look for competitive, motivated employees to participate in the success of this niche market. If you are looking for a career in a vigorous and fast-paced industry, employment with TRG is what you are looking for.

To learn more about employment with TRG please visit: http://traderiskguaranty.com/Employment.aspx

About TRG:
Now located at 140 East Main Street, Suite G, Bozeman, MT, TRG is an international surety agency providing Customs bonds, marine cargo insurance, and other trade-related products direct to companies that import into the United States.

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.

TRG Marine insurance policies are written by our sister agency, Corporation for International Business – dba Boomerang Freight Solutions Insurance Agency in the state of CA, dba Corporation for International Business, Inc. in the states of CT/MA/MO/NM, and dba CIB Insurance Agency, Inc. in the states of FL/MD/NH.

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) Teams up with the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce to Find Talented Sales Reps

2010-10-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

April 2009, Bozeman, Montana, became home to Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG), the leading direct supplier of International Trade products. Over one year later, the company is pushing forward with a local marketing campaign to increase the community’s awareness of TRG and to attract qualified sales representatives. The company expects their new membership with the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce to aid in greater community wide exposure.

Bozeman, MT (PRWEB) 11 October 2010 – The Bozeman Chamber of Commerce offers local business owners networking opportunities and a place to become active participants in the Montana community. TRG, a local business new to Bozeman, has officially become a silver member of the chamber. http://www.bozemanchamber.com/membership/join.asp

Unique to Bozeman, TRG’s products do not cater to the needs of most local businesses and consumers. TRG offers trade facilitation products to U.S. importers via electronic communication. With the vast majority of the company’s market residing on the east and west coasts, the name TRG is rarely seen or heard in Bozeman. Functioning primarily as a sales and marketing office, the company is located in downtown Bozeman and is continually offering employment opportunities to the community. http://traderiskguaranty.com/Employment.aspx

Aside from the Chamber of Commerce, TRG is actively involved with student functions at Montana State University – Bozeman. TRG attends 1 – 2 career fairs at MSU each year and over 60% of TRG’s employees are graduates of MSU Bozeman. TRG recently sent Gregg Cummings, National Sales Manager, to campus, who spoke with students in a Professional Selling Business course about the skills needed to build a successful career in sales. TRG’s marketing department participated in a semester long business course allowing students to receive hands-on consulting experience.

Community members engaged with TRG employees as they distributed information about job opportunities at the MSU Pep Rally and Homecoming Parade this October. “We have spent a lot of time and money trying to find the best way to inform people about our excellent employment opportunities, but we continue to struggle to find candidates exhibiting the caliber of talent we expect from Bozeman,” Jena Leary, Marketing Director stated.

About TRG:
Now located at 140 East Main Street, Suite G, Bozeman, MT, TRG is an international surety agency providing Customs bonds, marine cargo insurance, and other trade-related products direct to companies that import into the United States.

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.

TRG Marine insurance policies are written by our sister agency, Corporation for International Business – dba Boomerang Freight Solutions Insurance Agency in the state of CA, dba Corporation for International Business, Inc. in the states of CT/MA/MO/NM, and dba CIB Insurance Agency, Inc. in the states of FL/MD/NH.

Cargo Theft Reports l What’s Your Risk?

2010-10-12T13:30:00.000-07:00

All supply chains are unique. In many cases, the complexity of a supply chain and its security parameters permit gaps and, in turn, increase the theft risk of your freight. Certain cargo, such as electronics, is more susceptible to loss by theft than others. These risk factors include theft by commodity, the path of the import or location and the type of theft. Cargo theft statistics are available for importers and exporters to analyze their risks and make adjustments to their supply chains. Modifications may include increased security to your distribution channels to aid in cargo loss prevention and/or building a shipping insurance policy designed to your specific risks to offset the cost of a loss.

Must Read Cargo Theft Statistics
Every month FreightWatch International releases a Cargo Theft Report to subscribers. The report includes diagrams breaking down reported theft incidents for that month.

In August 2010 FreightWatch reported, “FreightWatch recorded 58 cargo theft incidents in August; an 18% increase from the thefts recorded in July. The states with the highest number of thefts were California and Florida, while Georgia experienced a higher number of incidents compared to last month displacing Texas to fourth place on the list of cargo theft.”

Subscribe to FreightWatch International’s Theft Report by contacting
Dan Burges
dan.burges@freightwatchintl.com
512-532-0159

Dan Burges states that the FreightWatch data, "Comes from out own proprietary database. We gather cargo theft data through clients, industry organizations, law enforcement agencies, insurance companies and open source media. We believe our database to be one of the most comprehensive cargo theft databases covering cargo theft in the United States."

Unique supply chains deserve unique coverage! If you lack the broad insurance coverage you need, contact TRG Marine™ today to see how we can customize a cargo insurance policy specific to your commodities and distribution channel. Every supply chain is unique; your insurance policy should be so too. Our years of experience and market connections will find you the best coverage at the best price! www.TRGMarine.com

Jena Leary | TRG
Marketing Director
140 East Main Street, Suite G
Bozeman, MT 59715
jleary@trgdirect.com

The TRG Trade Spotlight Expands Features and Brings Recognition to Customs Bond Holders

2010-10-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) has improved the company’s International Trade Ezine known as the TRG Trade Spotlight. TRG added many new features to the layout in order to provide a more interactive experience for the readers.

Bozeman, MT, September 22, 2010 — The TRG Trade Spotlight is an electronic newsletter or Enzine, released by Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG). The publication provides content relative to the International Trade industry. The primary purpose for the TRG Trade Spotlight is to keep TRG’s customers up-to-date on old and new Customs regulations that may have an impact on their business practices.

The Customer Spotlight section is new to the monthly article. Highlighted here, is one of TRG’s unique customers. In order for TRG to feature the business, the customer must submit their interest to TRG and provide a short background on what makes their company stand out. The TRG Trade Spotlight will then provide a description of the business and a link to the company’s website. “We have over 6,500 customers, that’s a reader base. We want to help some of the SMEs in that mix to tell their story and with hope gain a few more customers from the recognition,” Jena Leary, TRG’s Marketing Director, states.

Of course, no Ezine would be complete without a one-of-a-kind crossword puzzle. The company is offering subscribers a fun and challenging crossword puzzle that features questions based on the import and export industry. Answers to the monthly puzzles are found on the company’s website. http://traderiskguaranty.com/crossword.aspx

Kathryn Shaw, Marketing Analyst for TRG acknowledged, “By adding the new features to the TRG Trade Spotlight, we anticipate our customers will become more engaged in each release and begin to relate more to TRG as a vendor. In addition, we hope our customers will find the new features entertaining. Let’s face it, finding the fun factor within the rules and regulations of International Trade can be tricky. Hopefully the crossword puzzle and Customer Spotlight will be enjoyed by our readers.” To view past TRG Trade Spotlight articles please visit http://traderiskguaranty.com/TRGSpotlightArchives.aspx.

About TRG:
TRG is an import solutions provider marketing its products directly to the importer. These products include U.S. Customs import bonds, shipping insurance (freight insurance) and direct filing of U.S. Customs entries and Importer Security 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.

Contact:
Kathryn Shaw
Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG)
406-922-6525

Looking for a great paying sales career in Bozeman Montana? Look no further!

2010-09-21T12:13:00.000-07:00

Sales Support: Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) - Bozeman is currently seeking PT and FT Sales Support Representatives. In this position you will become a member of a sales team and assist 1-2 Senior Sales Executives in lead generation, sales cycle organization/prioritization and maintaining prospect relationships. The team based sales approach throws you into the fast-paced, dynamic environment while providing you with the hands-on training needed for advancement within the company. TRG is accepting applications from competitive, motivated, self-starters to assist in meeting and exceeding sales executive’s revenue goals.

PT: $10/hour

FT: $23,000 salary

Please send resumes to Jena Leary, jleary@traderiskguaranty.com

About TRG:

Offering insight into the world of International Trade, believe it or not, Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) is located in the Gallatin Valley of Bozeman, Montana. The downtown location is a hop, skip and a jump away from Bridger Bowl, Moonlight Basin and Big Sky Ski Facilities. Fishing, hiking, camping and many other outdoor activities are available to you out your backdoor. Filled with an office of outdoor enthusiasts, a few perks to employment at TRG include; powder days on the slopes and summer fishing and hiking team trips.

As the leader in direct marketing of do-it-yourself trade facilitation products, TRG is thriving and continues to look for competitive, motivated employees to participate in the success of this niche market. If you are looking for a career in a vigorous and fast-paced industry, employment with TRG is what you are looking for. Go Global in Montana!

TRG Hosts Bozeman Gold Toastmasters Club

2010-09-20T15:17:00.000-07:00

Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) has been hosting the Bozeman area Toastmasters at TRG’s downtown office for the past eight months. The Bozeman Gold Toastmasters Club meets every Friday at 12:00pm (MST).

Bozeman, MT, August 12, 2010 — TRG proudly hosts the Bozeman Gold Toastmasters Club every Friday at noon in their Bozeman office. Bozeman Gold Toastmasters Club helps give men and women the skills and confidence they need to speak effectively in front of large audiences. The Toastmasters Club has been operating internationally since 1924, and they currently have more than 200,000 members in 80 countries.

Each Friday at noon the Toastmasters club meets for an hour and gives everyone in the club a chance to stand up and speak. At every meeting, a few club members typically have the opportunity to stand up and present a topic of interest, and then the other members of the club provide them with constructive feedback. The club offers a calm, relaxed, and supportive environment for individuals to improve their public speaking skills. http://bozemangold.freetoasthost.ws/index.html

TRG’s Bozeman office houses the majority of the company’s sales and marketing members. TRG also operates out of Indiana, Chicago, Illinois, and Big Sky, MT. TRG’s president, John Michel, decided to offer TRG’s office to the Bozeman Toastmasters Club for their weekly meetings. Mr. Michel trusts that Toastmasters is a great learning tool for the company’s sales producers. By hosting Bozeman’s Toastmasters Club at the TRG office, many of TRG’s employees have since joined the club and are benefiting from their membership and participation.

“I would recommend Toastmasters to anyone that likes meeting new people, networking, and has a genuine interest in learning to speak more professionally,” TRG Senior Account Executive Darren Pettyjohn states. “My speaking skills have improved. I think about what I say before it comes out. It helps me slow down and speak more professionally, as nerves typically make you speak fast.” For additional information about employment with TRG please visit their website at: https://traderiskguaranty.com/Employment.aspx

About TRG:
TRG is an import solutions provider marketing its products directly to the importer. These products include U.S. Customs import bonds, shipping insurance (freight insurance) and direct filing of U.S. Customs entries and Importer Security 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.

Contact:
Kathryn Shaw
Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG)
406-922-6525

Start your sales career in Bozeman, Montana.

2010-08-30T14:47:00.000-07:00

Live the Montana Dream with the TRG Team!

Offering insight into the world of International Trade, believe it or not, Trade Risk Guaranty (TRG) is located in the Gallatin Valley of Bozeman, Montana. The downtown location is a hop, skip and a jump away from Bridger Bowl, Moonlight Basin and Big Sky Ski Facilities. Fishing, hiking, camping and many other outdoor activities are available to you out your backdoor. Filled with an office of outdoor enthusiasts, a few perks to employment at TRG include; powder days on the slopes and summer fishing and hiking team trips.

As the leader in direct marketing of do-it-yourself trade facilitation products, TRG is thriving and continues to look for competitive, motivated employees to participate in the success of this niche market. If you are looking for a career in a vigorous and fast-paced industry, employment with TRG is what you are looking for. Go Global in Montana!

We are currently accepting applications for the following Ongoing Openings:

Full-Time Sales Executives: Are you looking for a job in Montana that pays based on performance and provides you with few added perks along the way?

Position Description: TRG is looking to employ full-time sales executives with the highest caliber of talent. A TRG sales executive is hired to market, via all approved and encouraged marketing strategies, to the best of their ability, the products available through TRG, and to continuously learn and become more knowledgeable about the products of TRG, and to provide our prospects and customers the highest level of service by being courteous, respectful, efficient and helpful.

Requirements: 2+ years of sales experience

Expected compensation: This is a full commission telemarketing position. A successful employee in this position should expect to earn $30,-40,000 in compensation in the first year and those with superior performance should expect to earn in the $45-60,000+ range. With any commission based sales position, the reward is based on the commitment. Quarterly sales incentives are designed to reward the top performing sales producers.

Benefits:

Paid Vacation
Personal Leave Time
Casual Dress
401K Retirement Plan
Quarterly Sales Incentives
Paid Company Holidays
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
A Big City Career without the Big City

Please send resumes and cover letters electronically to jleary@traderiskguaranty.com, or via mail to:

Jena Leary
TRG
140 East Main Street, Suite G
Bozeman, MT 59718

Visit http://www.bozemanchamber.com for information on Bozeman Montana.

2010-07-19T10:24:00.000-07:00

Thank you for registering to access Eagle Eye Reporting!

Trade Risk Guaranty has invested in software that connects with U.S. Customs’ database allowing us to download proprietal and highly secured information. Access to Entry information is available only to TRG bond holders. Importers may access information only for their company’s bond with prior registration authorization. Eagle Eye Reporting provides information about:

 Importer Bond Status (which will be covered at the end of this presentation)
 Entry Status Report
 Supplemental Duty Bills
 Liquidated Damages Penalties

Let’s get started!

Log-in to Eagle Eye. (on Home Page, look at the top right corner for LogIn)

ENTRY STATUS REPORT:
Reflects the status of entries under each import bond. Allows you to see each entry number, entry date & status, import value, estimated duty, liquidation date & amount per bond per importer.

Entry Number – any entry filed under your TRG bond

Importer Number – Importer of Record number (IOR), tax ID or employer identification number (EIN). If an importer has affiliated companies, such as a DBA business with a different IOR, each number must be entered to Eagle Eye reporting separately.

Date Range – this is optional. If no dates are inserted, the report will give results for the life of the TRG bond.

Report Options:
* Liquidated * Unliquidated * Suspended * All Entries

TRG Entry Status report will include entry information such as:
Entry Date
Import Value
Estimated and Liquidated Duty
Liquidation Date

Entry Detail Summary is accessed by clicking on the red Entry Number.

Export TRG reports. Eagle Eye reports can be downloaded into Excel or Adobe pdf formats.

Eagle Eye VALUE: Importers can obtain a list of entries to review duty, taxes and fees. Unliquidated entries are an outstanding financial obligation to be anticipated. Suspended entries, those put ‘on hold’ until rulings are determined for final duty amounts, should be scrutinized. Suspended entries may require future additional collection of duty upon liquidation and can take years to liquidate.

Helpful links:
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/toolbox/ports/
Each port has a link to view the list of broker contacts in that area.
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/priority_trade/add_cvd/adcvd_pti.xml

SUPPLEMENTAL DUTY BILLS
Includes information on additional duty bills issued for anti-dumping or countervailing duty, change in classification (HTS), or miscellaneous fees or debit vouchers. Timely response is required to avoid national sanction.

Bills may be issued for:
 Anti-dumping or countervailing duty owed upon liquidated of entry
 Classification or Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) calculation differences
 Miscellaneous – various fees, debit vouchers, etc.

Eagle Eye VALUE: It is recommended that each bill is reviewed for accuracy. If an Importer or their broker feels there is reasonable argument against the additional duties demanded, a formal Protest (CF-19) must be filed within 180 days. Customs’ decision on protests may take months or years to be processed.

Pink invoices are sent via mail by Customs to importers every 30 days until the bill has been paid. It is recommended that bills are paid in full within the first month of receipt to avoid interest accrual. If protested and approved, the payment is refunded including interest to the Importer.

Helpful link:
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/priority_trade/revenue/bill_payments_sanctions/

LIQUIDATED DAMAGES PENALTIES

Liquidated Damages Penalty Notices are issued by Customs’ port office of Fines, Penalties and Forfeitures. They can carry extremely high fines! These are time-sensitive and require resolution of noncompliance along with petition or payment, or both. Failure to comply will result in bond termination and may affect an Importer’s compliance rating. Moreover, violations can alert Customs to initiate heavy scrutiny of all entries.

A penalty notice may be issued for any Code of Federal Regulation or United States code violation.
Common violations include:
 Failure or untimely payment of duty or entry paperwork
 Failure or untimely electronic filing of ISF
 Non-compliance with FDA refusal of goods or redelivery requirements
 Non-compliance with carrier bonded merchandise in transit requirements

Eagle Eye VALUE: Timely and complete resolution of entry violations is more than handling an incident; it is a reflection of your overall business practices. Investigation of the source of a violation results in an opportunity to make improvements in supply chain management and increased efficiency. Successfully petitioned penalties have resulted in either complete cancellation of the penalties or by reducing fines up to 97%.

Helpful links:
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/priority_trade/penalties/
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/cargo_security/carriers/security_filing/

EAGLE EYE CLAIMS

As surety agent for our clients’ import bonds, Trade Risk Guaranty is routinely notified via Eagle Eye downloads about Supplemental Duty Bills and Liquidated Damages Penalty Notices issued by Customs against our clients’ bonds.

As part of our service to you, our Claims Department emails notification and an Eagle Eye Report of Supplemental Duty Bills or Liquidated Damages to importers so the obligation may be addressed in a timely manner. Our courtesy reports are a back-up to Customs’ notices and reassurance that TRG is ready to help with resources and information to resolve matters.

Our Claims Analyst reviews each report and is available to assist importers and their agents, broker, freight forwarder or attorney, by facilitating prompt and thorough resolution with U.S. Customs.

Our goal is to provide each of our customers with a resource dedicated to helping to ensure smooth sailing in the world of importation!

Please visit the link below to view a recording of our Eagle Eye Webinar
http://www.4shared.com/video/zp5JXcVN/2010-06-29_1202_Eagle_Eye_Impo.html

Eagle EyeSM: Resolve import related problems faster and easier

2010-06-15T09:49:00.000-07:00

TRG Bond™ is hosting a free webinar on “Eagle EyeSM: Resolve import related problems faster and easier”.

Register today: Tuesday, June 29th 1pm CT https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/827215339

Eagle EyeSM is a free service made available by TRG Bond™ to all Customs bond clients. As a TRG Bond™ customer you now have access to fast, accurate, private and easily accessible information regarding your import entries; whenever and wherever you have an Internet connection. Eagle EyeSM allows you access to timely information about your entry without you having to track it down.

Not only does this tool, take information directly from U.S. Customs and streamline the data for your review, TRG Bond™ is here to help you understand the data. As our client we want you to maintain the highest level of Customs compliance you can. Many of our users indicate they have access to this vital information on Eagle EyeSM well before they are notified by their customs broker.

Kathryn Cody, TRG Bond’s™ in-house claims specialist will discuss:

- Eagle Eye Reporting Capabilities
o Supplemental duty bills

o Entry status reports

o Customs bond data

o 10+2 ISF & Import Entry penalties

- Using your data to answer these common questions

o Do I have any duties owed to Customs?

o Which broker filed this entry?

o How much customs bond coverage to I have?

o What entries are not yet liquidated?

o What port did my entry come into?

o What is the estimated duty I paid last year?

o What did I pay to clear Customs last year?

- How to activate your Eagle EyeSM account

- Non – Customers: How to apply for a Customs bond with TRG Bond™

About TRG Bond™

Since 1991 TRG Bond™ has been specializing in providing Customs bonds, direct filing, and cargo insurance direct to importers. Our bonds are underwritten by Hanover Insurance (A.M. Best Rated A). This is the identical bond you now carry and your customs broker/FF may continue to clear your entries. More than 6,000 companies, including K-Mart, Sears, Kawasaki and Bosch, save every year by using TRG Bond™.

Register today: Tuesday, June 29th 1pm CT https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/827215339

Do I need an International Carrier Bond?

2010-04-19T13:32:00.001-07:00

A question came in through our online chat service today about a company transporting a plane for repairs. The company already had an International Carrier bond on file or Activity Code 3 bond. They didn't know if this bond would allow them to enter the US after their plane was fixed in Costa Rica.

We get questions everyday to where there is a completely unique situation to an importer or carrier. In this instance we told them to make sure and contact the port in which the plane would be returning to. The size of their carrier bond would have been determined at this port as well, when they went to place the bond. The size of the bond usually depends on the port and the aircraft in question. It is our understanding that entrance to this port would not be different from any of the company's other activies and thus would be included under this bond. However, always make sure and double check with the port!

You can find a complete list of port contact information here.

Make sure and add this to your favorites in your web browser. You will be surprised how ofter you will need to access this!

Stop wasting money on single entry Customs bonds.

2010-04-15T09:25:00.000-07:00

Multiple Single Entry Bonds or 1 Continuous Bond?

In the past, it was more economical for low volume importers to purchase single entry bonds. However, U.S. Customs is now requiring that if a single transaction bond is used to clear the entry an additional single entry ISF bond to be place. This increases the costs of single entry transactions; however, TRG has the solution.

Since 1991, TRG has provided continuous Customs bonds direct to importers. The continuous import bond will cover every shipment over a one year period (both entry and ISF). TRG offers the following promotional pricing to low-volume importers. Call us today to see how you can save!

Applying for Continuous bond is easy.

 Send TRG a completed 1 page application and Power of Attorney form,
 TRG will contact you with any changes needed on the application,
 TRG will place the bond with U.S. Customs,
 You will provide your broker (or whomever clears your entries) with the new bond number.

It’s really that simple to decrease your import costs! Don’t pay the high costs of single entry bonds. If you are interested in obtain a continuous bond, please contact TRG or apply online today!

Monitoring Liquidated Damages, Supplemental Duties and Customs Entries

2010-04-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

If you are a Customs bond holder with TRG, make sure that you are taking advantage of Eagle Eye. This is our free entry monitoring system that has the following 4 reporting capabilities.

The Customs Bond Report: Outlines the customs bond(s) your company currently has on file.

The Entry Status Report: Reflects the status of entries under each import bond. Allows you to see each entry number, entry date & status, import value, estimated duty, liquidation date & amount per bond per importer.

The Supplemental Duty Bills: Includes information on entry liquidation and Customs’ additional bills. View the status of your bills due to classification review or anti-dumping/countervailing upon liquidation.

The Liquidated Damages Report: Streamlined view of any penalty notices by Customs per entry. Failure to respond to Customs may not only increase the penalty amount, but can effect your compliance rating. This report is the most popular among our customer base.

View a vide of Eagle Eye here!

Kimbree Baker Signs On to TRG

2010-04-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we announced our new Marketing Analyst, Kathryn Shaw. Today we are happy to announce that Kimbree Baker has signed on as TRG's new Administrative Assistant.

Both TRG and Kimbree are excited to begin working together. Kimbree joins us from Montana State University in Bozeman, MT. Her degree in Economics will put her in the fast lane to learning about globalization and brining her knowledge to the TRG team.

Along with Kathryn, Kimbree will be starting on June 1st. As much as we would like our new additions to start today, we need to give them time to finish up their education and maybe take a short breather!

We look forward to having you both!

Welcome to TRG, Kathryn Shaw

2010-04-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

TRG would like to announce the employment of Kathryn Shaw.

Kathryn will be joining TRG as the company's Marketing Analyst. Working alongside, Jena leary, Marketing Director, Kathryn will assist the marketing department in database management, lead generation, brand awareness, content development and many other critical components of the marketing department. Who knows...maybe the next post you read on this blog will be written by Kathryn :)!

Kathryn starts on June 1st here in the Bozeman office. We are looking forward to the new addition and fresh ideas that Kathryn will bring to the team. A gradute of Montana State University, we are assured that she will put her education to great use!

TRG Trade Spotlight l March l Import/Export Recordkeeping

2010-04-08T07:34:00.000-07:00

Import/Export Recordkeeping Best Practices by Mike Laden

TRG attended another successful event hosted by the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) www.icpainc.org this past March. With educational sessions ranging from the Pros and Cons of Self-filing to Understanding Incoterms, attendees were buzzing about the depth of knowledge presented at this conference. Mike Laden of TRG Direct presented Import/Export Recordkeeping Best Practices.

Recordkeeping Best Practices

Electronic – Keeping your records in an electronic format will allow you to expedite the document retrieval process as well as implement the following best practices. This will also allow your information to be stored in a “on-demand” centralized location. Electronic storage will need to be approved by Customs & Border Protection (CBP). *Your policies and procedures should require you to keep the originals for 120 days and all electronic records a minimum of 5 years!*

Policies & Procedures Comprehensively Documented – CBP expects to see that you have policies in place prior to an audit. The policy must ensure the preservation of integrity, readability, and security of the information contained in the original records. Include in your procedures a standardized retrieval process for your records.

Completely Crossed Referenced – If the document relates to information elsewhere, be sure to make that connection.

Exception Files – Your import/export records should be able to “tell a story”. Policies should require that any and everything be stored. If there was an email about it, store it. When in doubt, store it!

Audited Before Storage – Set up a procedure for internal auditing of your documents as they move to storage. Penalties may result for negligence and failure to maintain records. This could be $10,000 per violation and each missing document could be considered a violation!

Award Winning TRG

2009 Pros to Know
Mike Laden and Kelby Woodard of TRG Direct have been acknowledged as Supply & Demand Chain’s 2009 Pros to Know. Recipients of this award have personally helped clients address the challenges of the recession and prepare for the recovery ahead. Congratulations and well deserved!

ICPA Founders Awards
We can’t say we were surprised this March when Greg Hodge of TRG was awarded the 2009 ICPA Founders Award at the annual conference. A true advocate of the ICPA, Greg referred the most new members to the ICPA in 2009.

Customs Entry Monitoring System Free to Bond Holders

2010-04-07T08:07:00.000-07:00

How to use Eagle Eye to answer your import questions.

TRG, the direct provider of US Customs bonds, offers more than just great pricing.

Have you ever wasted time and resources trying to answer one of these important questions?

Do I owe any duties to Customs?
Which entries have not liquidated?
How much duty did I pay last year?
Which of my entries are suspended?

All TRG customs bond holders have free access to this information.

The more you know about your import practices the better for your compliance

What exactly can Eagle Eye do?

The system offers 4 pre-designed reports.

The bond report, the entry status report, the supplemental duty bills report and the liquidated damages report.

The information in these reports streams directly from US Customs.

Eagle Eye is accessed through TRG’s website. You are able to view this timely data from any computer with an Internet connection. The bond report outlines any Customs bonds your company currently has on file.

This report will tell you your bond effective date, bond number, liability amount and many other useful data elements relating to your bond. This is an example of a bond summary report. The entry status report will allow you to see each entry number, date and status as well as import value and estimated duty. This button will allow you to see more detailed information on each entry. You can query the supplemental duty report by bill number, entry number or importer number. This report shows you the status of your bills due to classification review or anti-dumping or countervailing. Again click on each bill to see detailed information. https://traderiskguaranty.com/EagleEyeLanding.aspx

The fourth report is the liquidated damages report and provides you with a streamlined view of any penalty notices by customs per entry.

So that’s a brief overview of Eagle Eye. We hope you take advantage of this free tool. If you are not yet a Customs bond holder with TRG. To take advantage of this system you will need to apply for a bond with us online at trgbond.com. Should you have an questions please submit them to askanexpert@traderiskguaranty.com

TRG Direct Introduces MyFileIdea a Social Networking Site for Direct-Filers

2010-03-04T12:39:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about bringing your ISF or entry clearance in-house but wanted to talk with other direct filers about their experience first? Now you can! TRG Direct introduces MyFileIdea, an online forum for International Trade Professionals to engage in conversation regarding the pros and cons of self-filing. Current direct filers can now network in real time with importers investigating the possibilities of in-house Customs clearance. Best of all, this is offered at no cost! Register Now!

MyFileIdea is a place to:
1) Interact with TRG Direct Users
2) Post Comments/Feedback/Ideas
3) Monitor System Updates
4) Vote on Ideas

The greatest feature of MyFileIdea is that users can post their ideas on how to make the system work better for them. TRG Direct is continually upgraded, mostly from ideas that are generated by the user group. MyFileIdea is a hub for these ideas and allows users to brainstorm by feeding off one another.
Users have the capability to monitor where their ideas are in the implementation process. The status of the MyFileIdeas are updated daily:
Implemented: The idea was accepted and the programming changes have been completed.
Pending: The idea has been approved by TRG Direct and is awaiting implementation by the programmers.
Approval: The idea is under review by TRG Direct.
Clarification: The idea needs further explanation by the user.
Alterations: The idea has been reviewed by TRG Direct and the company has some suggestions to make the idea more effective for all users.

TRG Trade Spotlight l February l Top 5 To Do List for Trade Professionals

2010-02-22T08:06:00.000-08:00

The International Trade Professional’s Top 5 To Do List for 2010 Have you ever noticed that things just don’t get done unless you have a proper plan of attack? Keeping a hard copy of your to-do list handy will keep you on track. Just like at home, your professional to-do list should contain obtainable goals and coincide with a feasible timetable for you to check the items off the list. In order to help you get started, TRG has created this list of to-dos for the International Trade Professional.

Print this out, keep it in sight and let the check off begin…

□ Take Initiative: Apply for or review your C-TPAT membership. Not only will your company receive numerous benefits from a C-TPAT membership, but it will increase the value of your relationship with U.S. Customs. If you are interested in learning more about applying, visit CBP’s website.

□ Connect with Experts: Set up educational alerts for yourself via social networking sites and online resources where information is continually updated.

o LinkedIn has various groups dedicated to International Trade. When you join a group, you have the ability to ask questions to the other experts in your field and will receive excellent advice for free! Try it out. A few groups you might find worth joining are Customs Specialists or Global Trade Compliance Professionals.
o Blogs are another free wealth of information. If you sign up for Google Readerb you can subscribe to multiple blogs and all of the posts will filter into one easy-to-read website. Our blog on ISF: Jamie’s ISF Blog

□ Gain Exposure: Become a member of an established trade association. There is a small handful of worthy associations for importers to consider as a valuable resource. The International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) and the Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI) are two groups TRG does recommend as invaluable resources for International Trade Professionals. Groups such as these include members with the greatest of experience and understanding in trade compliance.

□ Investigate: Complete a thorough review of your import costs. To get started, find out what you are really paying for your brokerage services. TRG Direct has created this form called Deciphering Your Broker’s Bill to help you determine where your fees are stemming from.

□ Explore: The past 10 years have brought technology to trade. Remote Location Filing has brought Direct Filing capabilities, Automated Commercial Environment has created Electronic payment opportunities, and Global Trade Management systems have expanded abilities. Explore each of these technologies and see which could affect your business practices in the most positive way. You may need to present your case for Customs compliance to senior management. Exploring venues will help you do so.

Is there something you think we should add to the list? Let us know: jleary@trgdirect.com

Presidents Plunge In Bozeman - Will John Jump?

2010-02-03T13:31:00.000-08:00

The Presidents Plunged is among us once again. This plunge is an icy dip into the Bozeman Pond just West of the Gallatin Valley Mall. The proceeds from this benefit are donated to Special Olympics Montana. The event takes place on February 15th, Presidents Day!
Schedule

10:00am - 11:45am
Plunge Registration @ Bozeman Ponds
11:30am
Enjoy refreshments, meet the athletes and change into your plunge attire
12:00 Noon
PLUNGE BEGINS
2:00pm
Awards Party at Fuddruckers - 2905 West Main
Plungers eat free up to $5 - not including beverage

Here are TRG we are hoping to get our President, John Michel, to take the plunge. We have raised $100 from employees but haven't broke the news to him yet. We'll make sure to post photos! If you would like to pledge visit www.somt.org. It's a great cause and we are happy to help out!

TRG Trade Spotlight l January l NAFTA Do Your Goods Qualify?

2010-01-29T13:39:00.000-08:00

NAFTA – Do my goods qualify and how do I claim a refund?North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) established a free-trade zone in North America, taking effect in 1994 by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. NAFTA eliminates tariffs on the majority of goods produced by these participating nations. It is an investment to the movement of goods and services among the three countries. Merely purchasing a product in a NAFTA country does NOT automatically make it NAFTA-eligible. Here are a few general “rules of thumb” for determining if you should claim NAFTA or not to receive a refund.not claim NAFTA if… You do not know the background of the product. Such as: who produced it, where it was grown or was taken from the ground, where the components or ingredients were manufactured or grown. The good was produced overseas and simply passed through North America. Your good qualified for NAFTA but was sent overseas temporarily and left Customs control or something was done to the product other than unloading, reloading or preservation. These are general rules; if you are unsure of your NAFTA eligibility, ask!NAFTA CertificatesIn order to present a claim for reimbursement on goods within the scope of NAFTA, the importer must submit a NAFTA Certificate of Origin. CBP’s website states, “The Certificate of Origin must be completed by the exporter. A producer or manufacturer may also complete a certificate of origin in a NAFTA territory to be used as a basis for an Exporter’s Certificate of Origin. To make a claim for NAFTA preference, the importer must possess a certificate of origin at the time the claim is made.” If the NAFTA Certificate of Origin is not ready at time of export, you have one year from the date of importation to claim a refund.For Further Information visit this trilateral web site (Canada/Mexico/U.S.): www.customs.gov/nafta/nafta_new.htm

IE Canada to Host Western Conference in Feb

2010-01-27T08:03:00.000-08:00

Do you deal with import/export regulations in Canada? If so, IE Canada may be a great association for your company to become a member of. This February, the group is hosting a trade conference in Calgary.
Direct from their brochure...
"Participants will have the opportunity to share knowledge and network with leaders in international trade and customs. Participants will hear the latest policy developments in customs and trade programs, such as NAFTA and ACI eManifest, take part in a hands-on workshop on tariff classification and NAFTA rules of origin, and hear from industry experts who are setting the benchmarks for trade compliance standards. Participants will also hear the latest trends in product sourcing and practical tips for establishing customs policies and preparing for a customs audit."

TRG Will be Attending MSU Spring Career Fair

2010-01-19T10:45:00.000-08:00

Montana State University, Bozeman hosts multiple career fairs for undergraduate students throughout the course of the academic year. This February, the 5th Annual “Almost” Spring Job and Internship Fair will be held in the Strand Union Building (SUB) Ballrooms on MSU’s campus. TRG, local business offering solutions to importers, will attend the event and meet with prospective interns to fulfill open part time sales positions. www.montana.edu

Local companies attending the career fair include, but are not limited to; Kraft Foods, Bresnan Communications, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Halliburton, Sherwin-Williams. MSU’s esteemed Engineering program has historically drawn a large number of firms from outside of Montana. TRG just recently moved its company headquarters to Bozeman, Montana after 18 years in Illinois. Operating out of the headquarters include the departments of TRG Bond, TRG Marine and TRG Direct. www.trgdirect.com

Along with the MSU Career fair, TRG has participated in other MSU events including the College of Business’ Management 475 class. TRG was able to work with business students throughout the course of a semester in development of a marketing plan. “Many of TRG’s employees are graduates of or currently enrolled at MSU. We are committed to giving back to the University by providing students with opportunities to develop a business acumen, ” stated Laura Michel, VP Operations. “We enjoy this youthful community and our ability to invest in its growth.

TRG’s website includes information on positions available within the firm. The company is looking to educate/train those with professional communication, influence/persuasion, attention to detail and computer experience. The job description in which the company is looking to fill at the MSU Career Fair will assist the Sales department with all aspects of Customs bond processing and customer service, and understanding of a sales position with the possibility of moving to a sales representative. www.trgbond.com

What is a "multi-year" continuous Customs bond?

2010-01-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

"My broker told me there are no multiple year continuous Customs bonds".
US Customs bonds are continuous, meaning once they are on file with Customs, they remain active until terminated in writing. TRG offers a 1,2 or 3 year term for the bonds, we are referring to billing terms. TRG has negotiated discounted premium rates for importers that pay for 2 or 3 years at one time. At the end of the chosen term, TRG contacts your company to see if you wish to continue the previous term or select a different payment term.

Multi-year pricing on the Customs bond offers companies our best pricing with our best rates for 3 years. Also note, that TRG has not increased pricing on the $50,000 Customs import bond since 1991!

Airport Security Bonds

2010-01-08T10:05:00.000-08:00

TRG offers all types of Customs bonds. The most common type of Customs bond is the import bond and is the bond most companies are familiar with. Over the past few months, TRG has begun to see a rise in the applications of Airport Security Bons (ASB). These are also a type of Customs bond, however US Customs is only now just regulating the requirement with more force.

An Airport Security Bond (ASB) is a US Customs bond needed for out sourced service companies to enter secured areas of airports (like cleaning services not employed by the airlines to clean planes or maintenance individuals not employed by the airlines to fix something).

Bond Amount Calculation for Airport Security Bonds: The Customs bond amount is determined by the Airport the company is operating in.

To apply for the ASB visit www.trgbond.com and click apply now!

The ISF Honeymoon Come to an End in 1 Month!

2009-12-29T13:00:00.000-08:00

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!

2009-11-13T10:43:00.000-08:00

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?

2009-11-03T10:19:00.000-08:00

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

2009-10-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-10-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-14T07:22:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-09-18T12:24:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-16T09:31:00.001-07:00

TRG Launches ISF Webinar for Customs Bond Holders

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TRG Direct Customer Service Blog l Jamie Dinan

2009-09-11T08:56:00.001-07:00

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!

2009-09-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-08T09:36:00.001-07:00

Check out this SlideShare Presentation:

Understanding Your U.S. Customs Bond

View more presentations from Jena Leary.

Your U.S. Customs Bond

2009-09-04T14:12:00.001-07:00

Your U.S. Customs Bond

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

2009-09-02T14:50:00.001-07:00

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

2009-09-01T08:31:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-31T09:09:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-08-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

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 years 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/.

2009-08-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

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."

2009-08-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

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.

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

2009-08-07T13:19:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-06-04T13:12:00.001-07:00

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

2009-05-27T15:31:00.001-07:00

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

2009-05-21T09:01:00.001-07:00

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

2009-04-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-10T09:23:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-10T09:20:00.000-07:00

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.

Direct Filing Customs Entries

2008-12-22T11:57:00.000-08:00

Direct Filing has become a phenominon over the last couple of years. If you are like most small to medium sized importers today, you have probably wondered about the benefits and ease of direct filing your own entries directly with US Customs & Border Protection (CBP). Here are the ´top ten´ reasons why now may be the opportune time for you to consider direct filing your own import entries.

#10 – 10+2 Importer Security Filing

Now that the 10+2 ISF has officially been passed, direct filing is the way to go. TRG Direct has a comprehensive parts database that keeps track of every item you import. This helps you manage and uniformly apply tariff classification, value, country of origin, quantity and Free Trade Agreements. As a result, TRG Direct gives your company the flexibility to adapt to new sourcing strategies such as 10+2.

#9 – Improved supply chain velocity

Using TRG Direct gives you the ability to pre-file your entries with CBP and actually obtain clearance information up to five (5) full days before the vessel arrives at its US port of destination. Assuming your consignment isn´t targeted by CBP for examination, pre-filed and pre-cleared shipments can be moved as soon as the vessel completes discharging. In some cases you can actually take one or two full days out of your supply chain transit time resulting in greater efficiency and improved cash flow.

#8 – Because you´re probably already doing most of the work

In many cases we´ve found that the majority of US importers are already providing the essential entry data (such as tariff classification, value and origin) to their appointed broker. If that´s the case, the remaining data elements on the CBP entry document are elementary in nature (such as vessel name and import date).

#7 – Improved vendor/supplier interaction

Direct filing not only gives you greater control, but it puts you in closer touch with your foreign vendors and suppliers. If a vendor´s documentation falls short of expectations or is incorrect, the mistakes are generally caught faster and repaired sooner. Again, this leads to greater consistency and improved levels of compliance and helps you meet your obligation to exercise reasonable care.

#6 – No one has more product knowledge

No one knows more about your product line, or the material being imported, than your own employees. If questions arise during the classification or entry process employees typically have access to specification sheets, schematic drawings, the merchant or buyer and lots of other detailed information about the product being imported.

#5 – Enhanced visibility

Direct filing affords your company much greater visibility into the entire supply chain and entry process and helps your company become more efficient along the way.

#4 – Savings

We believe most companies are more concerned about their level of compliance than they are about saving on entry fees. With that said, there could be a windfall of savings based on your volumes and what you are currently paying a broker today for processing your entries. These reduced expenses make your company more competitive by lowering your overall landed cost and adding to your bottom line.

#3 – More control

Direct filing gives you and your company much greater control over the entire import process.

#2 – Higher levels of compliance

With little exception, one of the most compelling reasons to consider direct-filing is improving your compliance rate with CBP. No one will take greater care in the preparation and processing of an entry that your own employees.And, the number one reason to consider direct filing…

#1 – Because you canAll U.S. importers have the right to direct-file entries covering imported product or material for their company; without any requirement for licenses or CBP permits.

Deciphering Your Broker's Bill

2008-11-04T13:56:00.000-08:00

How much are you really paying your broker to clear your entries?$60……$70……$80……$90…..$150…..$200+

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. What can I do to lower my costs, I’m not a licensed Customs Broker?

What can I do to lower my costs, I’m not a licensed Customs Broker?

File your entries in-house with our ABI system and realize there is no guessing to what you are paying for. When we say a “flat rate”, we mean a “flat rate”. After your initial one time start up fee (either $1,000 or $2,000) there are two pricing options available

$30/entry
$20/entry + $1,200 yearly fee

Another cost savings our customers appreciate is the guarantee that they will only be charged once per entry. Brokers may charge you multiple times for the same entry if they need to go back and make a correction or change to your entry. With TRG Direct, you can alter your entry as many times as you need and will only be charged for the initial transaction.

For more information contact us! www.TradeRiskGuaranty.com

Truth & Consequences

2008-11-04T13:41:00.000-08:00

Are import entry filing errors affecting your bottom line?

"Importers are expected to familiarize themselves with their supply chains and exercise reasonable care with their import practices."

The constant change and complexity of importation keeps U.S. Customs faced with many challenges today. Customs 2007 Year in Review reported that there are 317 active U.S. ports of entry where over 190,000 vessels dock annually. Customs must track more than 10 million cargo containers and process over 31.4 million entry documents each year. Even with these considerable challenges, Customs still reviews 100% of all container shipping information.

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that over 8% of all import transactions contain one or more errors. The Mod Act of 1993 puts all reporting liability on the importer of record. Importers are expected to familiarize themselves with their supply chains and exercise reasonable care with their import practices. With that, Customs brokers are not held accountable for compliance reporting issues.

Has your company been subject to these costly reporting errors?

A large camera maker, imported $60 million worth of duty-free camera equipment that was incorrectly labeled “Made in Hong Kong” when in fact the equipment was made in China. The camera maker settled with Customs out of court with a $20M fine.

Another Importer's Customs broker failed to fill out duty-free forms for client merchandise. Because of the Customs broker’s error, the telecommunications provider was incorrectly assessed an 8.5% duty rate. Customs agreed that the error was a mistake of fact, correctable under § 1520(c)(1),but because the importer could not explain why the broker failed to do his job, the duty rate was not reversed and the company had to add legal expenses to an already burdensome import duty.

The Customs broker for an importer of LCD screens, assigned the wrong tariff number, resulting in a $6M penalty to the company. CBP rejected the company’s “reasonable care” defense that reliance on a customs broker to classify merchandise correctly is sufficient to establish that an importer exercised reasonable care.

Take control of your entry filing and to avoid those costly errors.

TRG Direct is a web based self filing system that allows importers to clear their customs entries without the assistance of a customs broker. Our customers choose to file direct because it enables them to control the entry filing process and avoid the consequences of reporting errors.