Completing CBP Form 3461 Entry Summary
So, you’ve just imported some goods into the United States and now you’re faced with the task of completing the CBP Form 3461 Entry Summary. Don’t worry, this article has got you covered. We’ll walk you through the process of filling out this important document step by step, ensuring that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Whether you’re a seasoned importer or new to the game, understanding how to accurately complete the CBP Form 3461 is crucial to avoid any unnecessary delays or penalties. So, let’s jump right in and demystify this essential document together.
Heading 1: Understanding CBP Form 3461
Overview of CBP Form 3461
CBP Form 3461, also known as the Entry/Immediate Delivery, is a critical document related to the importation of goods into the United States. This form is used by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to collect essential information to facilitate the clearance of goods through customs.
Purpose of CBP Form 3461
The primary purpose of CBP Form 3461 is to provide detailed information about the imported merchandise, its origin, classification, and value. It enables CBP to properly assess duties, taxes, and fees, as well as enforce various trade regulations and laws.
Who needs to complete CBP Form 3461
Any individual or entity acting as the importer of record must complete CBP Form 3461 for all imports coming into the United States. Importers, brokers, and authorized agents are responsible for accurately filling out this form and submitting it to CBP.
Important terms and definitions
Before diving into the sections of CBP Form 3461, it’s essential to understand a few key terms and definitions:
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Importer of Record: The person or entity responsible for ensuring that imported goods comply with all laws and regulations. They are also responsible for payment of duties, taxes, and fees.
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Consignee: The party to whom the goods are being shipped or delivered.
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Broker: A licensed professional who acts as an intermediary between the importer and CBP, assisting with customs procedures and compliance.
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Surety Code: The code that designates the name of the entity that is financially responsible for the payment of duties, taxes, and fees.
Now that we have a basic understanding of CBP Form 3461, let’s explore each section in detail.
Heading 2: Filling out CBP Form 3461
Section 1: Importer Information
In this section, you will provide essential information about yourself as the importer of record. The fields include:
Field 1: Importer Number
Enter your unique identification number assigned by CBP.
Field 2: Importer of Record Number
This field requires the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) number or Employer Identification Number (EIN) of the importer of record.
Field 3: Consignee Number
If the consignee is different from the importer of record, enter the consignee’s unique identification number.
Field 4: Broker Number
If you are using a broker to clear your goods through customs, enter the broker’s identification number.
Field 5: Surety Code
Enter the code that designates the entity that is financially responsible for the payment of duties, taxes, and fees.
Section 2: Arrival Information
This section focuses on the details of the arrival of the goods. The fields include:
Field 1: Vessel Code
Enter the code that identifies the vessel used to transport the goods.
Field 2: Country of Exportation Code
Specify the code for the country from which the goods were exported.
Field 3: Port of Entry Code
Enter the code that identifies the port where the goods will enter the United States.
Field 4: Date of Arrival
Provide the date on which the goods arrived at the port of entry.
Section 3: Country of Origin
This section relates to the country of origin of the goods. The field includes:
Field 1: Country of Origin Code
Enter the code for the country where the goods were produced or manufactured.
Section 4: Invoice Information
This section requires information from the invoice related to the imported goods. The fields include:
Field 1: Invoice Number
Enter the invoice number associated with the imported goods.
Field 2: Invoice Date
Specify the date of the invoice related to the imported goods.
Section 5: Schedule of Classification and Rate
In this section, you will provide classification and duty rate information for the imported goods. The fields include:
Field 1: Harmonized Tariff Schedule Number
Enter the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) number that corresponds to the imported goods.
Field 2: Rate of Duty
Specify the duty rate applicable to the imported goods based on the HTS number provided.
Section 6: Marking
Here, you will provide information regarding the country of marking for the imported goods. The field includes:
Field 1: Country of Marking Code
Enter the code for the country where the goods were marked or labeled.
Section 7: Entry Summary Certification and Signature
This section requires certification and signature related to the entry summary. The fields include:
Field 1: Entry Summary Certification
Indicate that the information provided in the entry summary is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge.
Field 2: Importer’s Signature
Sign and date the form to certify that you are the importer or authorized agent.
Section 10: Summary Description, Quantity, and Value of Merchandise
This section focuses on providing a summary description, quantity, and value of the imported merchandise. The fields include:
Field 1: Description of Merchandise
Give a detailed description of the imported goods.
Field 2: Quantity
Specify the quantity of the imported goods.
Field 3: Unit of Measure Code
Enter the code for the unit of measure used to describe the quantity provided.
Field 4: Value
Specify the value of the imported goods.
Completing CBP Form 3461 entry summary accurately and thoroughly is crucial for a smooth customs clearance process. Ensure that all the information provided is correct, as any mistakes or omissions can result in delays, penalties, or even seizure of the goods. For further guidance, you can refer to the instructions provided with the form or seek assistance from a licensed customs broker.