Customs Bonds – what vessel operators need to know
Customs bonds are financial guarantees that vessel operators must obtain to ensure compliance with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations when importing goods into the United States. Customs bonds are required for various purposes, including ensuring payment of duties and taxes, compliance with regulatory requirements, and ensuring that goods are properly marked and labeled. […]
CBP – Safeguarding our border and promoting economic growth
The United States Customs Service has a rich and extensive history that spans more than two centuries. The agency, which is now known as the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), has been responsible for regulating international trade and ensuring the safety and security of US borders since its inception. In this article, we will […]
Customs Clearance on the Outer Continental Shelf.
Customs clearance requirements for vessels arriving from a foreign point on the US Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) are determined by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency. In general, all vessels entering the United States from a foreign port or place, including the OCS, must report their arrival to the CBP and undergo a […]
What is the Jones Act? The Basics Explained
What is the Jones Act? The Jones Act is a federal law that regulates maritime commerce in the United States. It requires that all vessels that transport goods between two U.S. ports be built, owned, and operated by U.S. citizens, and that they be registered in the United States. The act also requires that all […]
A Quick Guide to Coastwise and Foreign Points on the Outer Continental Shelf.
Is it necessary to clear customs before going offshore? The US Customs regulations for offshore activities center around the distinction between foreign and coastwise points on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Coastwise points include: Foreign points on the OCS are: Determining whether your vessel or aircraft is going to a foreign or coastwise point on […]