Customs Bonds

Understanding Customs Bonds: Stand Alone ISF Bonds, Single Entry Bonds, and Continuous Bonds

Importing goods into the United States involves navigating various customs requirements, one of which includes obtaining the right type of bond. Bonds ensure that importers comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and fulfill financial obligations. There are different types of bonds available, each serving distinct purposes: Stand Alone ISF Bonds, Single Entry Bonds, and Continuous Bonds. At EasyISF.com, we provide the bond that best suits your importing needs.

Stand Alone ISF Bonds

What is a Stand Alone ISF Bond?

A Stand Alone ISF (Importer Security Filing) Bond is a specific type of bond required by CBP for importers who file an Importer Security Filing. This bond ensures that the ISF information is accurate and submitted on time. The ISF must be filed at least 24 hours before the goods are loaded onto a vessel bound for the United States. The Stand Alone ISF Bond is only used for the ISF filing and is needed only for formal ISF shipments valued at over $2,500.

When to Use a Stand Alone ISF Bond?

For infrequent importers
When a continuous bond is not in place
For individual low value shipments
For formal ISF shipments valued at over $2,500

Single Entry Bonds

What is a Single Entry Bond?

A Single Entry Bond (SEB) is used for individual import shipments. Unlike the Stand Alone ISF Bond, the Single Entry Bond is only used for customs clearance. Single Entry Bonds are required for entries valued at over $2,500, except in cases involving merchandise subject to other agency requirements where failure to redeliver could pose a threat to public health and safety, where formal entry may be required and the bond amount must be three times the value of the goods plus duties and fees. For goods not regulated by these entries, the bond should be in the amount of the value of the goods plus duties and fees. These agency requirements include:

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - All
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - All
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (BATF) - Alcoholic Beverages and Distilled Spirits Only
Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) - Toys and Fireworks only if sampled by Customs for CPSC testing
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) - Subject to marketing orders
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - All
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) - All

When to Use a Single Entry Bond?

For one-time or infrequent shipments
For individual low value shipments

Continuous Bonds

What is a Continuous Bond?

A Continuous Bond is an annual bond that covers all import activities for a year. This bond is more cost-effective for frequent importers as it eliminates the need to secure a bond for each shipment. A Continuous Bond covers all duties, taxes, and fees, including ISF requirements and customs clearance, making it a comprehensive solution for regular importers.

When to Use a Continuous Bond?

For frequent importers
When importing high-value or high-volume goods
When seeking a more convenient and cost-effective bonding solution
For importers who import more than three times a year
For single shipments valued over $30,000

Choosing the Right Bond with EasyISF.com

At EasyISF.com, we understand that each importer has unique needs. Whether you are an occasional importer or a frequent one, we provide the bond that best suits your importing activities. Our team of experts will guide you through the process, ensuring you have the appropriate bond to meet CBP regulations and protect your financial interests.

Stand Alone ISF Bonds and Single Entry Bonds: We recommend these for infrequent, low-value importers. The Stand Alone ISF Bond is specifically for formal ISF filings for shipments valued at over $2,500, while the Single Entry Bond is used only for customs clearance and is required for entries over $2,500 or for specific agency-regulated merchandise.
Continuous Bonds: For importers who import more than three times a year or have single shipments valued over $30,000, a Continuous Bond is typically more cost-effective. A Continuous Bond can be used for both ISF filings and customs clearance, covering all your import activities for a year and providing greater convenience and savings.

Our goal is to simplify the importing process, making it easy and stress-free. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in selecting the right bond for your needs.

By understanding the different types of bonds and choosing the right one, you can ensure smooth and compliant importing experiences. EasyISF.com is here to provide you with the support and solutions you need for successful importing.