US Customs can make cargo clearance more efficient by working together with customs brokers! I’m a longtime broker and a representative of our associations’ members, and we have the frontline knowledge to help Customs employ systems that work for everyone. They set the general parameters, and we deal with the nitty-gritty details of clearance and collection of duties. Since each broker represents multiple importers, we are the perfect conduit to streamline the information flow.
Customs has made positive strides toward efficiency with the implementation of the financial mechanics for ACE (Automated Commercial Environment), especially with the inclusion of drawback and liquidation. Also, it would be helpful to give brokers the ability to file informal entries (type 86) for shipments valued under $800 (Sec.321). This will help reduce the massive problems clearing small shipments through the PGAs (partner government agencies — e.g., the US Dept. Of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and US Fish and Wildlife Services).
Other initiatives to improve the clearance process are expanding ACE to unify PGA filings. Currently, USFWS and FDA utilize two separate systems — EDECS and ITACS — for filing, while USDA uses a manual process for some types of products. Integrating all agency filings into one automated system (ACE) will go a long way toward simplifying customs clearance.
Overseeing import clearance is only one facet of Customs and Border Protection’s work; their overriding mission is to safeguard our borders. The commercial aspects of import clearances are best handled by the specialists, working in partnership with Customs. We’ll continue to press for new efficiencies from Customs to help all involved. We must be doing something right, because the Port of New York and New Jersey has handled record numbers of TEUs year after year.