On: March 6, 2023     By: David Noah

What Is an Authorized Economic Operator?

An Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) is a party involved in global trade—including importers, exporters and shippers—that receives preferential treatment from customs authorities due to prescreening. In the U.S., it is the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) program. Learn how to get certified.

On: February 20, 2023     By: Katy McIntosh

Import Compliance: The True Cost of Hand Carries

When an employee or contractor is headed across a border to visit a business partner, companies sometimes send commercial goods along, too. These are known as hand carries, and they can be a risky way to transport commercial items. Here's a look at what you need to understand to stay compliant.

On: October 12, 2022     By: John Goodrich

Importing Basics: Country of Origin

It's important to know the correct country of origin for your imports into the United States, because U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) uses that information to determine the proper duty rates to assess and whether preferential trade agreements, trade sanctions or import quotas may apply.

On: August 17, 2022     By: David Noah

How to Use the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS or HTS) is a system used for importing and exporting to classify goods based on their material composition, product name and/or intended function. It is similar to Schedule B codes used for exports, but there are some key differences.

On: April 27, 2022     By: Helen Mann

U.S. Trade Hits Record Levels Amid Supply Chain Woes and Global Uncertainty

U.S. imports and exports were higher than ever in 2021 thanks to outsized consumer spending. But record growth came with extreme challenges: supply chains stretched to their limit and rising transportation costs, along with global tensions and an erratic economy. We kick off World Trade Month with this look at the state of international trade.

On: April 25, 2022     By: David Noah

Freight Forwarder vs. Customs Broker: What's the Difference?

Many exporters and importers don't understand the differences between freight forwarders and customs brokers. While forwarders generally work on the export side of the transaction and brokers on the import side, their roles can and do sometimes overlap. Here's what you need to know about both.

On: April 13, 2022     By: Kari Crane

World Trade Month 2022 Is in May and You Are Invited

World Trade Month is in May. It's a month filled with events to celebrate the importance of international trade to the U.S. economy and to teach new and experienced exporters about various aspects of international trade. This year's theme is 'Overcoming Challenges; Unleashing Growth.'

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