Proposed U.S. Cargo Security Rules Could Up Importing Costs

John Wolz

The U.S. Customs & Border Protection is seeking comments on the proposed “10+2” rule requiring cargo information for shipments bound for U.S. ports.

The CBP issued a “Notice of Proposed Rulemaking” for the “10+2” requirements for importers. The deadline for comments is March 3, 2008.

The “10+2” rule would require importers to make an “Importer Security Filing” with cargo information before entering U.S. ports. Information must be filed at least 24 hours in advance of containers being loaded on vessels in foreign ports. The “10” data elements are: Names and addresses for manufacturers, sellers, buyers, ship-to and consolidators; stuffing location in container; importer of record; products’ country of origin; and commodity tariff code number.

In addition the carrier must provide CBP in advance of arrival of shipments the “+2” part of the rule: “Vessel Stow Plan” on the location of containers and “Container Status Messages” daily on certain specified changes in container status.

Several manufacturers have already expressed concern about potential shipping delays and significant additional costs and the burden on small and medium manufacturers without IT systems in place to record and track this information. Smaller manufacturers frequently ship product in less-than-full containers. Delays due to inaccurate or incomplete information could also pose problems.

The National Association of Manufacturers will hold a meeting on February 5 to review the proposed rules and discuss member concerns, William Primosch, NAM’s senior director of international business policy, announced. NAM members may participate in the session in Washington, DC, or by teleconference. For information call 202 637-3145. E-mail: bprimosch@nam.org

Access to the proposed rule and industry comments can be found at the following CBP Internet link: cbp.gov/xp/cgov/import/carriers/security_filing/. �2008 FastenerNews.com