US Customs Fees for Low Value (section 321) Clearance
At Jet Worldwide, we are getting a record number of inquiries from those seeking information on high volume parcel importation of ECCCF "section 321" shipments to the USA.
How to Import to the USA now that Section 321 obsolete
IMPORTANT: 2025 updates to Section 321
How can I access the USA without Section 321?
Access for e-commerce goods to the United States is still possible via new processes. Really it is back to the future with having an importer of record, harmonized codes, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Contact our team to build new processes.
For importers who have H.S. codes, it may be best to use a Section 321 "type 86" entry. Using this entry type, goods can be imported via traditional methods using the Automated Broker Interface or ABI system (ACE)
Section 321 Port of Entries include:
- Major air freight hubs including JFK, DFW, LAX and ORD
- Border Crossings from Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal
Section 321 Entry Types
Section 321 is a designated entry type for individual consignments valued under $800. The different types of section 321 include:
- Express consignment / ECCF: Goods imported using an ECCF are granted express clearance privileges and are subject to regulations outlined in Part 128 of the Code of Federal Regulations / CFR. Goods imported via express processes are subject to a per consignment fee mandated by customs to reimburse the cost for express processes.
- Cargo Clearance / CFS: Goods can be imported using express processes but without the per consignment fee (mentioned above). Goods are transferred to an approved Container Freight Station (CFS) and are usually cleared within 1 to 3 days of arrival.
- Type 86 Entry: For traditional brokerage processes that use automated connections to customs (ACE), section 321 type 86 can be used. The key difference is that HS codes are required for each item. An HS Code is not required for ECCF or CFS section 321 mentioned above.
- Canada/ USA Cross Border Clearance: This method is increasingly being used to take advantage of airlift to Canada and trucking cross border directly (usually) to a USPS facility.
Watch our video: Different methods of section 321 explained
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