Trade Basics ·
Tariff Engineering: Legal Strategies to Reduce Import Duty Costs
Legal tariff engineering strategies to reduce import duty costs. Product modification, sourcing shifts, FTZ usage, drawback, and how to stay on the right side of CBP.
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Trade Basics ·
USMCA Rules of Origin: How to Qualify for Preferential Duty Rates
How to qualify for USMCA preferential duty rates. Rules of origin, certificate requirements, regional value content, and how to verify product eligibility. category: trade-agreements
Trade Basics ·
How to Calculate Import Tariffs: Step-by-Step for U.S. Importers
Step-by-step guide to calculating U.S. import tariffs: find your HTS code, check Section 301/232/122, add MPF/HMF, and calculate total landed duty cost.
Trade Basics ·
How the Current U.S. Tariff System Works: A Complete Guide
Understand the full U.S. tariff system: MFN rates, Section 232, Section 301, Section 122, and how all layers interact. Updated for the post-IEEPA landscape.
Trade Basics ·
Customs Fees Explained: Every Fee on a U.S. Import Entry
Complete guide to U.S. customs fees: MPF rates and limits, HMF, ISF fees, bond costs, broker fees, and exam charges. Includes a worked fee calculation example.
Trade Basics ·
HTS Code vs Schedule B Code: Import and Export Classification Compared
HTS codes classify imports. Schedule B codes classify exports. Learn the differences, when each is required, and why getting them confused causes problems.
Trade Basics ·
First Sale vs Transaction Value: Customs Valuation Methods Compared
Compare first sale and transaction value customs valuation. Learn when each applies, the documentation requirements, and the legislative risk to first sale.
Trade Basics ·
Binding Ruling vs CROSS Ruling: When to Request Each
Binding rulings from CBP provide legal certainty on classification. CROSS rulings offer precedent research. Learn the differences and when each is appropriate.
Trade Basics ·
Export Control Basics: ECCN, EAR, and What Every Exporter Must Know
Understand U.S. export controls including ECCN classification, EAR vs ITAR, license requirements, and how to build an export compliance program.