Included below is a link to our informational bulletin with respect to the Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements Interim Final Rule which has been published in the Federal Register on November 25, 2008. The interim final rule becomes effective on January 26, 2009. For the purposes of enhancing U. S. Port Security, importers will be required to electronically submit (10) data elements to CBP before cargo is laden on board a vessel destined to the United States. Carriers will be required to submit two additional data elements to those already required. Also included are links to useful information distributed by Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security on the implementation and timeline of the new security regulations. As outlined in the interim final rule, there is no additional bond requirement for importers and principals with a CF301-1, CF301-2, CF301-3 and CF301-4 continuous bond currently in effect. As such, no further action is needed at the present time from importers and principals with any of the afore mentioned continuous bonds to maintain compliance with the new requirements, however; we will continue to update our clients as to what potential effect the new rules will have on Customs bonds after the implementation and expiration of the delayed compliance date which is 12 months after the interim final rule takes effect. Should you need any further information as it pertains to the interim rule and specifically Customs bonds, please let us know.
PDF Link: Importer Security Filing Information
Additional information can be found at the below web sites: