Types of Customs Entry

Formal entries are required for commercial shipments valued over $2,500 or for goods subject to quotas, antidumping/countervailing duties, or other restrictions. They require an entry bond. Informal entries (19 CFR 143.21-143.28) are used for shipments valued at $2,500 or less, personal imports, and certain mail shipments. Informal entries do not require a bond.

Key entry types include: Type 01 (Consumption Entry) — the most common, for goods entering U.S. commerce; Type 03 (Consumption Entry — Antidumping/CVD) — for goods subject to AD/CVD orders; Type 06 (FTZ Entry) — for goods admitted to Foreign Trade Zones; Type 11 (Informal Entry) — for low-value commercial and personal shipments; Type 21 (Warehouse Entry) — for goods stored in bonded warehouses; Type 22 (Warehouse Withdrawal for Consumption).

Entry documentation must be filed within 15 calendar days of arrival of the goods at the port of entry. The entry summary (CBP Form 7501) and estimated duties must be filed within 10 working days after the goods are released. Failure to file timely can result in liquidated damages against the bond.