Answer first
Core rule
An in-bond application consists of a transportation entry and manifest, is generally transmitted through a CBP-approved EDI system before departure from the origination port, and requires a custodial bond and CBP movement authorization. Required data include the six-digit HTSUS number and quantity stated as the smallest external packing unit. Non-barge merchandise generally must reach CBP within 30 days, and barge merchandise within 60 days, measured from the later regulatory trigger in §18.1(i); examination or inspection hold time is excluded, while diversion or a new in-bond filing does not restart the clock. Arrival is reported within two business days, and the arrived shipment must be entered, exported, or admitted to an FTZ within 15 calendar days or it becomes subject to general order on day 16. Current law was reviewed on 2026-08-18 against the eCFR text current through 2026-08-14. For the October 2026 CBLE, answer from the exam-designated 2025 CFR edition when its wording or numbering differs from live law.
Authority and lookup route
Locate the rule before returning to the facts. Links point to government or official publications.
Reference lookup task
Find the later-of trigger for the 30/60-day transit clock, the two-business-day arrival report, and the 15-calendar-day destination disposition rule.
Route: Within §18.1, read paragraphs (i), (j), and (k) consecutively and label every period as calendar days, business days, or a maximum transit period.
Worked example
A truck shipment's importing conveyance arrives at the origination port on January 2, but CBP issues movement authorization on January 5. No examination hold applies. Which event starts the 30-day clock, and what separate report follows physical arrival at destination?
- 1Classify the movement as non-barge, so the ordinary maximum is 30 days.
- 2Compare conveyance arrival with CBP movement authorization under §18.1(i).
- 3Use January 5 because it is the later regulatory trigger.
- 4After destination arrival, notify CBP through the approved EDI system within two business days and include the FIRMS code.
Conclusion: January 5 starts the 30-day clock; destination arrival must then be reported within two business days with the shipment's FIRMS location code.
Common traps
- Starting every in-bond clock on the vessel or conveyance arrival date without applying the later-of rule.
- Using 30 days for a movement transported by barge for all or part of the route.
- Treating diversion or a replacement in-bond application as a new maximum-transit clock.
- Confusing the two-business-day arrival report with the 15-calendar-day entry, export, or FTZ-admission deadline.
- Reporting container or pallet count instead of the smallest external packing unit.