Frequently Asked Questions

Why purchase an annual bond?

Securing an annual bond shows Customs - and customers! - that you are a serious importer and plan to continue importing to the United States. You’ll also save money by avoiding expensive single-entry bonds.

Why become a C-TPAT member?

Joining the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program expedites the release of your cargo and reduces the number of inspections, which helps aid prompt cargo availability. Customized Brokers encourages all of its customers to become C-TPAT certified. Click here to learn more.

Why avoid loading produce at night?

When loading produce at night, insects and other pests can get inside containers more easily. This may require treatment, delays and possibly re-exporting the shipment. If you must do so at night, the use of mesh tarps during the loading process can help to reduce the risk of insects entering the container.

Why know the seasonality trend of regions?

If you are familiar with seasonal trends, then you are better equipped to adjust your shipping volumes and patterns to take advantage of excess and restricted capacity, helping to reduce transportation costs.

How do I avoid detention and demurrage charges from carriers?

Customized Brokers advises customers to negotiate with carriers for extra time to load and unload cargo.

How do I comply with USDA's wood packing material regulations?

Using untreated wood-packaging materials violates USDA rules. When loading ocean containers or domestic trailers, ensure the treatment stamp on pallets and cartons is visible when doors are open and inspections are done. If the stamp is not visible during the inspection, your cargo will be marked for stripping, and if it is not in compliance, the shipment will be re-exported or rejected. Read more here.

How do I expedite customs clearance for reefer containers with mixed commodities?

The best way to do this is to instruct handlers to place sample boxes by the door when loading mixed commodities on a reefer. This step facilitates inspections and expedites releases, which means product spends less time in transit and more time on the store shelf.

What is the importance of airflow in refrigerated containers?

Lack of airflow can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage to perishable shipments. Proper loading also prevents cargo from being damaged by shifting in transit. Make sure your carriers properly load cargo for airflow and secure it in the ocean container or domestic trailer.