QUESTION: We receive our records from our Brokers as hardcopy and store them for 5+ years based on the Recordkeeping requirements. If we switch to FTP (have our Brokers upload our documents directly to us electronically), do we need to apply for Alternative Method of Storage? %%%%%%%%%% ANSWERS: No, I would retain them simply in […]
QUESTION: What is the requirement or a best practice for length of retaining records pertaining to voluntary disclosures? Are they different for Commerce (BIS or Census) and State or other relevant agencies such as Treasury (OFAC)? ************ Answers: At least five years from the date of the last related transaction/activity. ================================================================
QUESTION: I am an export professional who is relatively new to the world of import, and I was hoping for some advice on record keeping. I would like to keep import records electronically as PDFs on our company’s drive, with the broker serving as a backup. However, this is where I run into confusion – […]
QUESTION: I am an export professional who is relatively new to the world of import, and I was hoping for some advice on record keeping. I would like to keep import records electronically as PDFs on our company’s drive, with the broker serving as a backup. However, this is where I run into confusion – […]
QUESTION: We are moving to electronic recordkeeping. I know in the past Customs required written notification to store electronically Is this still required? Answers: Yes, a written request to customs must be made to create a paperless system. ************* See 163.5 Methods for Storage of Records in the regulations. ************** Yes, it is still required. […]
QUESTION: My company receives documents (invoice, packing list, CO, etc.) electronically via email from our overseas suppliers. These documents are in Excel so they do not contain company stamps or signatures. They also send original documents that are sent signed or stamped. Other than the signature, the documents are identical. With the exception of the […]
QUESTION: The Importer I work for was under CBP audit at the time I was hired. The audit had been ongoing for a couple of years and they had a prior audit a couple of years before that. We have two prior disclosures out for valuation, classification and ADD/CVD. Our counsel (CBP Attorney and the […]
QUESTION: There are times when we ship full containers that the goods are shipped on a house bill and master bill of lading. When we receive originals, the master bill is not always included. Is it sufficient for record keeping purposes to have only the house bill of lading on file, or do we need […]
QUESTION: Our company receives import documents both digitally and as paper. Some documents have to be sent as original (Bill of lading), so we would like to reach out to CBP to approve us to keep paper documents electronically. I know that any originals have to be kept for 120 days before they can be […]
QUESTION: I’ve read that record retention for export documents is 5 years. So that means I can shred/delete any physical and soft copies of export shipments correct? Nowadays, soft copies are archived in company server, so is it wise to delete them after 5 years or just keep them archived until the company admin decides […]
QUESTION: Our company current works with a Shelter IMMEX company in Mexico who manages all the packing and shipping on our behalf for export orders. The items are shipped on a consolidated invoice into the United States and then distributed from our Broker/Freight Forwarder’s warehouse to their end-destination, usually on the FCA Port of Export […]
QUESTION: What documents are required for shipping and receiving record retention? What is the length of time they need to be stored? Can you maintain the goods receipt in an ERP system (such as SAP)? ========== Answers: You’re question doesn’t specify if you’re asking about imports or exports. However provided no licenses are involved, records […]
