CBP to Discontinue ISF SubTypes 5 & 6

For non-vessel-operating common carriers (NVOCCs), compliance with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of doing business legally and avoiding steep penalties. During our recent webinar, Avoid Costly FMC Penalties, industry expert Mauricio Larenas of AP Tariffs reminded participants that compliance begins with a simple but critical question: does your business qualify as an NVOCC? Who Qualifies as an NVOCC? According to the FMC, any company that offers ocean shipping services is considered an NVOCC. That definition is broad—so broad that even a small storefront advertising “Ship to Colombia for $50” or a Facebook post offering to move […]

Resources to Help Brokers Battle the Trade War While it’s no longer front page news fodder the tariff-centered trade wars continue. Change – if not outright volatility – continues to be an understatement as it relates to tariffs on goods imported to into the United States these days. Unfortunately businesses who have import activities and the customs brokers who assist them are caught in the middle, and they can become casualties of the ongoing trade wars. While U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is publishing plenty of resources, the dedicated people on the Customs Bond team at Roanoke are here […]

By: Dennis Gates, Regional Vice President Northeast Region The announcement of potential tariffs has sparked concern across industries. In November 2024, the U.S. President-elect proposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico. This move could significantly disrupt trade, particularly for goods previously duty-free under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). For importers and their customhouse brokers, these tariffs could bring significant financial and logistical challenges. Understanding the Potential Impact These proposed tariffs may affect a wide array of goods, from raw materials to finished products. Importers need to understand how these changes could increase costs, strain supply chains, and lead […]