Section 321 allows for goods valued at $800.00 USD or less, to enter the United States duty-free and without a formal entry – A great option for importers looking to save money, but it can cost you some time.
Section 321 Restrictions
Not all goods valued at $800.00 USD or less are subject to release without formal entry under this provision:
- Merchandise subject to anti-dumping / countervailing duty (ADD/CVD)
- Merchandise requiring inspection as a condition of release
- No alcoholic beverages, perfume containing alcohol, cigars, or cigarettes
- Merchandise regulated by FDA, FSIS, NHTSA, CPSA, and USDA
- Exemptions have been made to FDA products such as: Cosmetics, Dinnerware, Food, and biological samples
- Regardless of the value, USCBP reserves the right to deny section 321 and demand a formal customs entry
How to declare section 321
Truck
- The carrier must file the ACE manifest as intangible goods/section 321
Ocean
- ISF (10+2) is still required for a section 321 and Pace Global Logisitcs is happy to file it on your behalf
- You will need to present an arrival notice and invoice to U.S. Customs in person
- A stamped copy of documents must be presented to CFS warehouse to guarantee the releases of your cargo
Air
- Pace Global Logisitcs Recommends you advise your airline prior to shipping your cargo that the merchandise should be manifested as intangible goods/section 321
- If this is not complete, you must go to U.S. Customs at the airport of arrival with the Airway Bill and invoice and ask the Customs Officer to release under section 321