Showing posts with label direct filing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label direct filing. Show all posts

Thursday, April 8, 2010

TRG Trade Spotlight l March l Import/Export Recordkeeping

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.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

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

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.

Friday, November 13, 2009

We have moved, officially!

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Why is my cargo being inspected?

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

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

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

If Contraband is Detected…

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

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

Friday, October 23, 2009

Meet TRG National Sales Manager, Gregg Cummings

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

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

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

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

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

2. How did you get started in the business?

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

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

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

4. Do you have any hobbies or hidden talents?

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

5. What's your favorite thing about ICPA?

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

Friday, September 18, 2009

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

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

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

How many tariff numbers do you have?

How many ports do you use?

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

How many entries are subject to quota?***

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

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

What commodities do you import?

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

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

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

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

Friday, September 11, 2009

TRG Direct Customer Service Blog l Jamie Dinan


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

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

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

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

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

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

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

Monday, December 22, 2008

Direct Filing Customs Entries

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.