Posted on

Regulations and Compliance for Storing Goods in a Customs Warehouse

A customs broker in a yellow hazard vest in a customs warehouse taking notes on a laptop.

When importing goods into the United States, businesses must follow strict regulations to ensure compliance with customs laws. One key aspect of this process is the use of a customs warehouse, which provides a secure location to store goods before they are cleared for distribution. Understanding the rules and compliance requirements for storing goods in an El Paso customs warehouse is essential for businesses looking to optimize their import process while avoiding costly penalties. 

If you need expert assistance with customs brokerage services, call Cordova Brokerage International Inc. at (915) 595-8774.

What is a Customs Warehouse?

A customs warehouse is a secure facility where imported goods can be stored without paying duties or taxes until they are either sold domestically or exported. This allows businesses to manage their inventory efficiently while deferring tax payments, making it an attractive option for many importers. However, using a customs warehouse comes with strict regulations that must be followed to remain compliant with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements.

Regulations for Storing Goods in a Customs Warehouse

To ensure compliance, businesses must adhere to several key regulations when storing goods in a customs warehouse:

Proper Documentation

All goods stored in a customs warehouse must be properly documented. This includes:

  • A detailed inventory list
  • Import entry paperwork
  • Certificates of origin
  • Customs bonds (if required)

Accurate record-keeping is critical to avoid delays and penalties. Failure to provide the correct documentation may result in fines or confiscation of goods.

Time Limits on Storage

Goods stored in a customs warehouse are subject to time limits set by CBP. In most cases, goods can remain in the warehouse for up to five years without duties or taxes being applied. However, after this period, businesses must either:

  • Pay duties and taxes to release the goods into the U.S. market
  • Re-export the goods
  • Destroy the goods under customs supervision

Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Certain items cannot be stored in a customs warehouse due to safety and legal concerns. These include:

  • Illegal substances
  • Counterfeit goods
  • Perishable items that may deteriorate over time
  • Hazardous materials without proper authorization

It is crucial to verify whether your goods meet the criteria for storage before utilizing a customs warehouse.

Security and Compliance Checks

CBP conducts regular inspections of customs warehouses to ensure compliance. Warehouse operators must maintain strict security measures, including:

  • Surveillance systems
  • Restricted access controls
  • Detailed records of all inbound and outbound shipments

Failure to meet security requirements may result in warehouse suspension or revocation of CBP approval.

Benefits of Using a Customs Warehouse

Using a customs warehouse offers several advantages for businesses involved in international trade:

Deferred Duty Payments

Businesses can store goods without immediately paying duties, allowing for better cash flow management.

Improved Inventory Control

A customs warehouse in El Paso provides a secure and organized space to manage inventory, reducing the risk of loss or damage.

Opportunity for Re-Exportation

If goods are not needed in the U.S. market, they can be re-exported without incurring duties, making international trade more flexible.

Compliance with Trade Agreements

By utilizing a customs warehouse, businesses can take advantage of trade programs and agreements that reduce tariffs and import costs.

How to Stay Compliant with Customs Warehouse Regulations

To avoid legal issues and fines, businesses should implement the following best practices:

Work with an Experienced Customs Broker

A knowledgeable customs broker can help navigate complex regulations and ensure compliance.

Maintain Accurate Records

Keeping detailed and up-to-date records of all transactions and inventory movements is essential for compliance.

Conduct Internal Audits

Regularly reviewing warehouse procedures can help identify potential compliance risks before they become major problems.

Stay Informed About Regulation Changes

Customs regulations frequently change, so it is important to stay updated on new requirements that may impact storage practices.

Customs Warehouse in El Paso

Storing goods in a customs warehouse is a strategic way to manage inventory and defer tax payments, but it comes with strict regulations that must be followed. By understanding and adhering to compliance requirements, businesses can avoid fines and maximize the benefits of warehouse storage. For expert guidance on customs brokerage and warehouse compliance, contact Cordova Brokerage International Inc. at (915) 595-8774. Our team is ready to help you streamline your import process and ensure full compliance with U.S. customs laws.

Posted on

Breaking Down the Freight Forwarding Process: From Pickup to Delivery

A warehouse with shelves full of cardboard boxes in El Paso.

Are you looking into hiring a freight forwarding company? Have you been told how beneficial they are but aren’t sure what the start-to-finish process looks like? In this article, we will discuss the different steps of this service. 

At Cordova International Brokerage, located in El Paso, TX, we offer quality services both internationally and domestically. If you’re interested in relieving yourself from the stressful task of managing transportation, our team can help. Call us today at (915)-595-8774 to hear more about our services. 

The Steps of Freight Forwarding

There are multiple steps in the process of freight forwarding. From the initial contract with the customer to the final delivery location, each step is handled thoroughly with the utmost accuracy. Through every step of the process, we are working closely with the customer to ensure everything is being taken care of. Read below for the list of steps in the freight forwarding process. 

  • Create a Contract- Before the product gets put on the truck, a contract must be written. The agreement with the customer will contain things such as the type of product being shipped, pickup/drop-off locations, and potential tracking. The contract will also describe all financial responsibilities, including payment plans and fees.
  • Preparing the Documents—Cordova International Brokerage will then prepare all necessary documentation. This paperwork will include customs documents, insurance, and confirmation of legal compliance. Proper paperwork is essential to avoid delays and customs issues. 
  • Pick Up the Product- The product will then be brought to the company to prepare for transit. We will ensure the shipment is securely loaded and paired with the essential paperwork. 
  • Transport the Product- And it’s off! The company will determine the most cost-effective method of transportation based on the product being carried. We will also maintain frequent contact to ensure legal compliance and on-time delivery. 
  • Clearance- Customs clearance and the necessary paperwork are essential to ensure that the product can be legally transported. 
  • Delivering the Product- The company will then coordinate delivery with the final drop-off destination. Coordination prevents delayed delivery and potential late fees. 

Freight Forwarding in El Paso

At Cordova International Brokerage, located in El Paso, TX, our freight forwarding services are cost-effective and efficient. We have advanced knowledge of the business and can guarantee a safe delivery. Contact us today for more information at (915) 595-8774.

Posted on

Is Cross-Docking the Right Solution for Your Business? Key Considerations

A graphic of workers moving boxes into a white truck in El Paso.

Business owners need to stay up-to-date on the latest supply chain trends and technologies to ensure quality services. A popular trend that many businesses are getting on board with is cross-docking services. Here, we will discuss the benefits of using cross-docking for your business.

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer cross-docking services to help you transport your products and give customers faster delivery times. If you’re interested in streamlining your supply chain, call us at (915) 595-8774 for more information. 

Benefits of Cross-Docking Services

Cross-docking is a fast-moving process and because of this, it requires a team of professionals to manage. There can be risks in the process if not done properly, however, when coordinated correctly, you can achieve ultimate customer satisfaction and efficient material handling. There are many benefits to using cross-docking services in your supply chain. Read below to learn more.

  • Reduces Costs- By reducing the time your product spends in a warehouse, you’re saving your business money. With cross-docking services, products are not stored long and don’t need to be picked and shipped separately. It can also reduce labor costs because there doesn’t need to be extra staff to help handle the inventory.  
    • Cross-docking services in El Paso utilize the use of transportation resources which in turn reduces transportation and shipping costs. Outbound trucks can be scheduled to arrive at the same time as the inbound trucks to further reduce time wasted. By doing this, you can consolidate multiple shipments into one truck, saving you more money.
  • Improved Customer Satisfaction- Customers love reduced lead times and accurate orders. Through El Paso cross-docking services, the product is immediately removed from one truck and placed on another, eliminating the need for warehouse storage. This results in faster delivery times with fewer errors. 
  • Reduces Shipping Times- As mentioned previously, shipping times are greatly reduced due to not having to store products in a warehouse in between trucks. This bypasses the inventory storage process which in turn gets the product to the customer faster. 
  • Reduces Potential Damage- Cross-docking services also reduce the risk of product damage. By eliminating warehouse storage, you’re not moving around the product as much thus reducing the risk of damaging the goods.

Cross-Docking Services in El Paso

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we provide quality cross-docking services to reduce the hassle of transporting products. If you believe cross-docking is a good fit for your company, call us at (915) 595-8774 today to get started.

Posted on

How to Prepare Your Shipment for Freight Forwarding

An aerial view of a shipping boat carrying freight in the ocean.

Do you need shipments transported to different carriers? Are you unsure how to properly prepare those shipments for transportation? Here, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to prepare your shipments for freight forwarding in El Paso.

At Cordova Brokerage International in El Paso, TX, we offer various services, including freight forwarding, cross-docking, and warehousing. If you need a shipment transported to another location, we’re the team to work with. For more information, call us at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today. 

Steps to Follow

There is more to freight forwarding than simply placing the product on a truck and sending it off. You need to make sure that every preparation step is followed accurately to avoid any costly delays. If you want to ensure everything goes smoothly with your freight forwarding shipment, there are a few crucial steps to follow. 

  • Prep the Package- Loose articles can result in damage during transpor, so make sure everything is tied down tightly. We recommend placing the cargo on pallets to prevent any damage. 
  • Stack the Cargo- There is a proper way to stack your cargo to make the freight forwarding more efficient. Stacking the product on pallets requires geometric design and equal weight distribution. If there is an imbalance of weight or any overhang off the pallet, the product will likely be damaged. 
  • Ensure Proper Labeling- For handling and shipping purposes, make sure each product is labeled correctly. The labels need to be clear and visible for the freight forwarding workers to see. 
  • Bill of Lading- The Bill of Lading is an important document required when transporting shipments. It includes details of the shipment, the destination, and the origins and can also act as a receipt. Because this is a contractual agreement, it’s vital that everything is filled out correctly. 
  • Track the Shipment- Just because the product has left your facility does not mean it’s out of your hands just yet. It’s important to track the shipment as it moves through El Paso freight forwarding. This way, you can intervene if there’s an issue along the way to its destination. 

Freight Forwarding in El Paso

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer trustworthy freight forwarding services. When you put your shipment in our hands, we can guarantee you your products will get to their destination in perfect condition. For more information, call (915) 595-8774 today!

Posted on

Top Mistakes Importers Make and How Customs Brokers Can Help

A customs broker in a white hard hat taking notes on a tablet in El Paso.

Are you the owner of an importing company and have come into a few issues while transporting goods across borders? Here, we will discuss common mistakes importers run into and how a customs broker can help avoid them. 

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, our experienced customs brokers can help make importing and exporting goods easier for you. We are dedicated to providing our clients with personalized services and can guarantee quality work. For more information, call us at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today.

What to Avoid

If you’re new to the business of importing, then it’s not uncommon for you to make a few mistakes along the way. However, those mistakes could get you into trouble, cause a delay in shipping, and create unhappy customers. Hiring an El Paso customs broker can help you avoid these mistakes. Read below for a list of common errors a customs broker can help you avoid. 

  • Forgetting a Compliant Commercial Invoice- Without a proper invoice, the goods will not receive a stamp of approval for passage. Some invoice requirements are as follows: invoice must be in English, names of the buyers/sellers, what currency is being used, and the weights/quantities. 
  • Not Having Incoterms- These are the internationally accepted rules for most commercial terms. Proper incoterms must be assigned to your products to ensure the proper definitions of the goods. 
  • No COO (Country of Origin)- You must always include where your products are coming from. A customs broker will make sure your products are properly labeled before reaching customs. 
  • Lack of Details- In addition to the COO, you must also have where the products were manufactured, what is the quantity, and what is the product made out of. Our customs brokers will deal with all the details of importing so you won’t have to worry about missing something.  
  • Not Having Correct Rate- Imports typically have either a tax or tariff rate you have to pay for imports. A customs broker in El Paso will make sure you’re using the correct rate. 
  • Incomplete Paperwork- Some required paperwork includes an arrival notice, a commercial invoice, a bill of lading, and a packing list. 

Customs Broker in El Paso

Cordova Brokerage International, a customs broker located in El Paso, TX, offers unparalleled assistance when it comes to the importing and exporting of goods. Our services can be customized to adhere to specific company requirements and regulations. If you’re interested in working with us, call (915) 595-8774 today for more information.

Posted on

Navigating Customs Warehousing: Benefits and Best Practices for Businesses

A man in a hard hat looking at a computer in an El Paso customs warehouse.

Are you the owner of a business and are interested in working with a customs warehouse? If so, you’ll need to know what kind of benefits this business practices provides; here, we will explain just that. 

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer customs warehouse services that include security, logistical management, and inventory control. Our services are low-cost and convenient for all businesses. For more information, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today!

Understanding the Benefits

An El Paso customs warehouse can make any business’s life a lot easier. However, if you’ve never worked with one in the past, you might not be aware of the benefits and practices that come with a customs warehouse. Read below for a list of those benefits. 

  • Long-Term Storage- A customs warehouse is the most ideal form of storage for long-term handling. Importing businesses can save time and money by utilizing a customs warehouse for long-term storage because it allows for fewer trips between suppliers. 

 

  • Better Cash Flow- Customs warehouses allow businesses to store their product in a secure location before paying the import tariffs. This can help improve the cash flow of the business. 

 

  • Protection of Restricted Goods- When using our customs warehouse, you’re entrusting the protection of your restricted goods to our hands. There is typically a short window of time for the proper paperwork to be issued before storing your products. However, when storing in a customs warehouse, you can keep your goods stocked and protected while you take your time in obtaining the proper paperwork. 

 

  • Flexible Stock Management- You’re able to streamline stock management procedures by enabling you to store old products or unnecessary goods; this comes in handy when you need to store seasonal items. 

 

  • Safety- Customs warehouses provide more strict security than a standard warehouse. Customs agents strictly monitor and guard these facilities to ensure the products stored inside are safe and secure. In addition to the security, some of these warehouses are climate-controlled for temperature-sensitive items as well as properly storing hazardous products. 

Customs Warehouse in El Paso

Here at Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, we offer plenty of security and space in our customs warehouse for your products. With our warehouse being over 80,000 square feet, we can offer plenty of clean and secure storage space. For more information about our customs warehouse, call (915) 595-8774 today.

Posted on

Navigating Customs Regulations: How a Freight Forwarder Can Help

A man looking at storage units for international shipping in El Paso.

Do you own an El Paso that is shipping goods and products overseas and requires assistance navigating through the customs process? Here, we will discuss how a freight forwarding company can help you with customs clearance. 

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer freight forwarding services for your imported and exported goods. We have advanced knowledge of the industry and know our way around customs. If you need a freight forwarder, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today!

Assisting With Customs Clearance

The process of going through customs can be a stressful situation, especially if you’re trying to manage the exporting of your products. An El Paso freight forwarding company can handle customs on your behalf. Read below for a list of things a freight forwarder will do for you when your products reach customs. 

  • Imports Documents- Customs laws vary from country to country; however, the importing documentation you will need regardless is information about each individual shipment that is being passed through. Our team will handle all the customs agents and paperwork filing. 
  • Exports Documents- The documents required for exporting are any invoices, the certificate of origin, the packing list, the bill of shipment, the bill of lading, and any other documentation required by the country. 
  • Container Loading- If the contents within the shipping container are not properly loaded, extra fees can occur, and your entire shipment may be delayed. We will make sure your products are properly loaded to avoid any issues. 
  • Time and Cost-Efficient Shipping- It’s beneficial to hire a freight forwarding company to help you through customs because if your shipment doesn’t pass inspection, you will have to pay for temporary storage, and the delay may negatively impact your business. Make sure you find a freight forwarder that has years of customs experience under their belt. 
  • Accurate and Appropriate Documents- There is an overabundant amount of paperwork that goes into freight forwarding, but it’s vital that all of it is up to date and what the customs agents require. Double-check your paperwork!

Freight Forwarding in El Paso

Here at Cordova Brokerage, located in El Paso, we are a trusted El Paso freight forwarding company with expert experience in the world of customs. If your shipment requires a pitstop through customs, we’re the team to contact. Call (915) 595-8774 today.

Posted on

Implementing Cross Docking: A Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses

A blue and yellow graphic of the cross-docking process with “CROSS-DOCKING’ written in white in El Paso.

Are you an El Paso business that needs a better handle on your inventory management? Have cross-docking services been recommended to you? Here, we will discuss what cross-docking is and how it can benefit you and your business. 

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer cross-docking services to businesses who are looking to keep their inventory logistics more organized, If you’re interested in hearing more about what we can do for you, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today. 

Diving into Cross Docking

Cross-docking services in El Paso are processes in which inbound goods are delivered, unloaded, and then transferred directly to the next outbound truck; the goods are not stored in a warehouse between truckloads. This efficient process requires organization and a lot of coordination between all involved parties. Regardless of whether the goods are perishable, time-sensitive, or high-turnover products, cross-docking services can benefit them all. 

If you’re thinking of obtaining El Paso cross-docking services for your business products, you should understand the kind of benefits it brings. Read below to see how these services can help. 

  • Improved Customer Satisfaction- Cross-docking can improve order accuracy and increase lead times. Customers will appreciate getting their orders in a more timely manner and with little to no errors.

 

  • Less Risk of Damage- Because products aren’t stored in a warehouse, they aren’t getting moved around as much. Because of this minimal handling, there is a decreased risk of damage to the products. 

 

  • Can Save on Costs- Cross-docking services can save money in a multitude of ways. Since the products don’t need to be stored, this reduces inventory costs and the labor costs to handle the stored inventory. Shipping and transportation costs can also be reduced by minimizing mile usage and wasted time. 

 

  • Shorter Transit Times- Transit times can be reduced because of the elimination of warehouse storage. This is because cross docking skips over the inventory storage process and instead ships directly to their final destination. 

Cross Docking Services in El Paso

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, we offer cross-docking services to anyone interested in receiving the benefits listed previously. By trusting our team with your products, you are reducing any and all risks associated with standard shipping and delivery services. If you’re interested in seeking our services, call (915) 595-8774 today.

Posted on

The Role of Customs Warehouses in International Trade

Three people reviewing inventory at a customs warehouse in El Paso.

Are you thinking about doing international trade for your El Paso company but aren’t sure what you’re getting into? Here, we will explain the role of custom warehouses and what they can do for your company. 

At Cordova Brokerage International Inc., located in El Paso, TX, we offer customs warehouses to our clients who need a place to store their goods while going through customs. If this is something you are interested in, or you want to hear more about our services, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today. 

What is a Customs Warehouse?

A customs warehouse in El Paso is a secure location that has a connection to customs where you can store, import, and export goods. Before the goods are sent out to their destination, they must be inspected by a customs agent. A customs agent will come to the customs warehouse where your goods are stored until the inspection is complete. This makes both your life and the customs agent’s life a lot easier. 

International Benefits

Though there are quite a few benefits of using an El Paso customs warehouse to store your goods, the most significant benefit of them all is how convenient international shipping is. When you import your goods to a customs warehouse anywhere in the world, you can store them there until they are ready to be exported, and you won’t have to pay an additional fee to do it. There are two routes to using a customs warehouse for international needs: importing and exporting. 

  • Importing- If you’re selling goods that go into seasonal demands, you can hold them at a customs warehouse until they are ready to be sold. The importer can then pay duties on their products as they are being delivered to their destination inside the country where they were held. 
  • Exporting- Importers can store the goods at a customs warehouse in order to save costs before being exported again. When the products are exported out of the country, the importer will not be charged a duty fee because the products are under the surveillance of customs. 

Customs Warehouses in El Paso

Cordova Brokerage International Inc., located in El Paso, offers plenty of space, security, and support at our customs warehouses, no matter what kind of products you’re bringing in. Whether you’re importing or exporting goods, we have a place to keep them. Call (915) 595-8774 for more information.

Posted on

Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder for Your Business: Key Considerations

Packaged cargo in front of an airplane in El Paso.

As a business, you want to choose a company that will handle your products and goods with care. This is why it is essential to choose the right freight forwarding business. 

At Cordova Brokerage, located in El Paso, we offer international freight forwarding to provide the utmost convenience to our clients. We take into consideration the type of product you’re transporting as well as the best routes that meet your preferences. If you’re interested in hearing more about our services, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today!

Making the Right Decision

When transporting your products across international borders, it’s ideal that you utilize freight forwarding professionals. There is nothing wrong with handling the specifics yourself, but understand that this is a very complex process. Read below for a list of tips on how to choose the right freight forwarding company. 

  • What shipping requirements do you need?
    • Depending on what kind of goods you need transported will depend on how you want them to be transported. This could be either air, water, or if within North America, by truck. 
  • See who are experts on your shipping route.
    • A freight forwarder needs to be familiar with your geographic needs. Be sure to ask them if they have strong connections in the pick-up and destination areas. 
  • Get a detailed freight forwarding quote.
    • Ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs of working with them. A few things that go into the final cost are the types of goods, the weight or volume, and the mode of transportation. 
  • What services does the freight forwarder provide?
    • All El Paso freight forwarding companies offer the standard services of transportation, delivery, and distribution. However, if your products require special treatment, be sure to ask the company if they can accommodate the service you require.
  • What is their reputation?
    • Much like checking the reviews for any business, make sure you check what kind of reputation they have. How satisfied were their clients? Did they have any issues during transport? If so, how was it resolved?
  • Make sure to compare multiple freight forwarders. 
    • After gathering service options, reviews, and quotes, the next thing to do is compare the freight forwarding companies with your needs. 

Freight Forwarding in El Paso

If you need a freight forwarding company to transport your products, look no further at Cordova Brokerage. We have served the El Paso area for over 20 years and are dedicated to providing personalized service. For more information, call (915) 595-8774!