Customs Entry

A customs entry is a declaration that describes the kind, quantity, and value of goods being imported or exported. It is an essential part of ensuring a smooth customs clearance. 

If you are working with a customs broker, then they will typically handle this form for you. The full list of information types listed on a customs entry is: 

• Country of origin 
• Description of goods 
• Cost, insurance, and freight value for the goods 
• Customs classification number 
• An approximate value for how much will be paid in duties 

The Two Types of Customs Entry 

There are two types of customs entries that you should be aware of: formal and informal entries. Any goods or merchandise valued at or over $2,500 are required to be covered by either an entry or a surety bond before passing customs. 

Informal customs entries, on the other hand, are goods valued at less than $2,500 and do not require a bond, with some exceptions. Always check with your specific port of entry for the exceptions to their informal customs entries. Textiles, for example, must be declared as a formal entry if the value exceeds $250. 

There is an additional type of informal entry referred to as Section 321. This allows for the duty-free transportation of goods valued at less than $200 when transported by one person in one day. An example would be when a tourist purchases a personal item in one country and travels to another.