What Are the Different U.S. Customs Entry Types?
Importing goods into the United States is not as simple as shipping products and waiting for them to arrive. Every shipment that crosses the border must go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and how it’s processed depends on the type of entry you declare.
Choosing the right customs entry type isn’t just about compliance, it can also help you manage duties, control costs, and streamline your supply chain. In this article, we’ll walk through the major types of U.S. customs entries and when each applies, and how to file using world-class customs entry software.
What Is a Formal Entry?
The most common entry type for commercial shipments is a formal entry, which is required for goods valued at $2,500 or more and for shipments subject to quotas, anti-dumping duties, or other restrictions. This process involves more documentation—most notably CBP Form 3461 (Entry) and CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary)—and usually requires a customs bond. Importers typically rely on licensed customs brokers to manage this process.[
What Is an Informal Entry?
For shipments valued at $2,500 or less, an informal entry offers a faster, less complex option. The paperwork is minimal, and in many cases, importers don’t need a customs bond.
This entry type is popular with small businesses, ecommerce sellers, and individuals, especially when importing samples or small consignments and is growing in volume with the end of the de minimus in the US.
What is a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Entry?
Foreign Trade Zones are designated areas in the U.S. where goods can be admitted without immediate duty payments. Duties may be deferred, reduced, or eliminated, depending on how the goods are used.
This entry type is particularly valuable for manufacturers that import raw materials, process them in an FTZ, and then re-export the finished goods.
What is a Drawback Entry?
A U.S. drawback entry is a customs process that allows exporters to claim a refund of certain import duties, taxes, or fees paid on goods that are later exported or destroyed. This entry type reimburses importers for duties on materials or products that do not remain in the U.S. market. The goal of the drawback program is to encourage exports by reducing the overall cost of doing business internationally, making U.S. products more competitive abroad.
Can You Describe a Consumption Entry?
When goods are being imported for domestic use, a consumption entry is filed. This is the standard method when products are meant for sale, distribution, or use within the United States.
Once duties and taxes are paid, the shipment is released into U.S. commerce. Think of this as the default entry for most everyday imports—everything from clothing to electronics.
Ready to Connect with Descartes?
At Descartes, we make navigating the complexity of U.S. customs entries easier. Whether you’re filing a formal entry for high-value shipments, leveraging special programs like foreign trade zones (FTZ), our customs compliance solutions streamline the process. With powerful automation, real-time customs filing capabilities, and integration with CBP systems, Descartes helps businesses ensure accurate declarations, reduce duty spend, and stay compliant. By combining deep trade expertise with advanced technology, we empower companies to confidently handle any customs entry type and keep their supply chains moving smoothly.
What Is a Warehouse Entry?
Importers who want to delay duty payments can use a warehouse entry. This allows goods to be placed in a bonded warehouse without immediately paying duties.
Duties are only due when the goods leave the warehouse for consumption. If the goods are re-exported, no duties are paid at all. Importers can store goods under this entry type for up to five years, making it an attractive option for businesses managing fluctuating demand or export markets.
Can You Describe a Temporary Importation Under Bond (TIB)?
Sometimes goods only need to enter the U.S. temporarily—for a trade show, demonstration, or repair. In these cases, importers can use a Temporary Importation Under Bond to avoid duty payments.
Goods must be re-exported within one year (with possible extensions up to three years). A bond guarantees compliance with the re-export requirement.
What Is an Immediate Transportation Entry?
An immediate transportation entry enables goods to move from the initial U.S. port of arrival to another U.S. port for clearance. Duties are not paid at the initial port, which is helpful when the arrival port isn’t equipped for processing the type of shipment.
For example, a container may land in Los Angeles but be transported under bond to Chicago for customs clearance.
Can You Describe a Transportation and Exportation Entry (T&E)?
With a T&E, goods can move across U.S. territory under bond before being exported through another port. No duties are paid since the goods don’t officially enter U.S. commerce.
This is common for goods in transit to a third country. For instance, a shipment may arrive in Miami but be exported through Houston to South America.
What is an Immediate Exportation Entry?
Sometimes goods arrive in the U.S. by mistake or need to be redirected abroad immediately. An immediate exportation entry allows those goods to be exported directly from the port of arrival without ever entering U.S. commerce or incurring duties.
Can You Describe a Carnet Entry (ATA Carnet)?
The ATA Carnet, sometimes called a “passport for goods,” simplifies temporary imports across multiple countries. Unlike a TIB, which is U.S.-specific, a carnet covers several destinations under one document. This is ideal for items like film equipment, professional tools, and trade show displays that travel frequently.
What is a Quota Entry?
Certain commodities—such as textiles, sugar, and steel—are subject to strict import quotas. When bringing in these goods, importers must file a quota entry to ensure the shipment falls within the established limits. Failure to do so can result in delays, penalties, or rejection of the goods.
No matter the type of entry, Descartes’ U.S. customs declaration solution helps customs brokers simplify compliance and accelerate clearance. By automating data capture, integrating directly with CBP systems, and managing complex duty calculations, our platform ensures that every entry type is filed accurately and efficiently. This reduces the risk of delays, fines, or overpayments while giving businesses the flexibility to adapt to different shipment scenarios. With Descartes, using a single, reliable solution to manage the full spectrum of customs entries, keeping supply chains compliant, cost-effective, and moving without interruption.