What Is an Import?An import is a good or service bought in one country that was produced in another. Imports and exports are the components of international trade. If the value of a country's imports exceeds the value of its exports, the country has a negative balance of trade, also known as a trade deficit. Show
The United States has run a trade deficit since 1975. The deficit stood at $576.86 billion in 2019, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Key Takeaways
The Basics of an ImportCountries are most likely to import goods or services that their domestic industries cannot produce as efficiently or cheaply as the exporting country. Countries may also import raw materials or commodities that are not available within their borders. For example, many countries import oil because they cannot produce it domestically or cannot produce enough to meet demand. Free trade agreements and tariff schedules often dictate which goods and materials are less expensive to import. With globalization and the increasing prevalence of free-trade agreements between the United States, other countries and trading blocks, U.S. imports of goods and services increased from $580.14 billion in 1989 to $3.1 trillion as of 2019. Free-trade agreements and a reliance on imports from countries with cheaper labor often seem responsible for a large portion of the decline in manufacturing jobs in the importing nation. Free trade opens the ability to import goods and materials from cheaper production zones and reduces reliance on domestic goods. The impact on manufacturing jobs was evident between 2000 and 2007, and it was further exacerbated by the Great Recession and the slow recovery afterward. Disagreement About ImportsEconomists and policy analysts disagree on the positive and negative impacts of imports. Some critics argue that continued reliance on imports means reduced demand for products manufactured domestically, and thus can hobble entrepreneurship and the development of business ventures. Proponents say imports enhance the quality of life by providing consumers with greater choice and cheaper goods; the availability of these cheaper goods also help to prevent rampant inflation. Real-Life Example of ImportsThe United States' top trading partners, as of November 2020, included China, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Germany. Two of these countries were involved in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) that was implemented in 1994 and, at the time, created one of the largest free-trade zones in the world. With very few exceptions, this allowed the free movement of goods and materials between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The United States has experienced a continuous trade deficit since 1975. It is widely believed NAFTA has reduced automotive parts and vehicle manufacturing in the United States and Canada, with Mexico being the main beneficiary of the agreement within this sector. The cost of labor in Mexico is much cheaper than in the United States or Canada, pushing automakers to relocate their factories "south of the border." $16The minimum hourly wage paid to autoworkers for certain cars under a trade agreement signed between the U.S., Canada and Mexico. In 2018, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico agreed to replace NAFTA with the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA). Its highlights include:
The USMCA took effect on July 1, 2020. Shipping products seems simple, right? You simply package the product and send it to your customer. But did you know there are different types of shipment? Depending on the size of your shipment, it may be considered parcel, less-than-load (LTL) or a full truckload (FTL) shipment. Your shipment may be too small for certain carriers, or conversely, if you have a large shipment, you may have to rely on a carrier certified to ship large containers. There are also unique considerations depending on the mode of transport—whether you’re shipping via air, sea, road or rail. The wide variety of terms that relate to the process of moving goods through a supply chain may seem overwhelming. Understanding the different types of shipment and related terms is crucial to ensure your goods get shipped on time, within compliance and in good shape. That's why we've provided this glossary of international shipping terms. B | C | D| E| F| G| H| I| J| L| M| N| O| P | Q| R| S| T| U| V| W ACEThe Automated Commercial Environment is the online web portal used to report data to the Automated Export System (AES) for exports leaving the United States, and also for customs filing for imports entering the United States. AESThe Automated Export System is used by the U.S. government to collect data on exports. This data is called Electronic Export Information (EEI), and in many cases, exporters are legally required to file the EEI through AES for each shipment. The U.S. Census Bureau uses this data to calculate trade statistics such as gross domestic product (GDP), while U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) uses it to make sure exporters are following U.S. export regulations. See also: Filing through AESDirect: 20 Terms Exporters Need to Know Aggregate ShipmentMultiple shipments—from different sellers to a single consignee—that are consolidated by the carrier into a single shipment. Air Waybill (AWB)The AWB is a document that controls the routing of an exporter’s cargo while it is in the hands of the air carrier or a consolidator. It is a contract for carriage; however, it cannot be negotiated. ALADIThe Latin American Integration Association (ALADI) is an international association of Latin American countries. Its function in Latin America is comparable to the function of the former European Economic Community—which has now become embedded in the framework of the European Union—in Europe. The goal of ALADI is to harmonize trade across the member states. There are currently 13 member countries representing a population of more than 500 million people. ALADI has its own commodity classification system similar to the global Harmonized System (HS). AlongsideRefers to the side of a ship. Goods delivered alongside are placed on the dock or barge within reach of the ship’s rigging so it can be easily loaded onto the ship. For example, it’s used in the Incoterms 2010 trade term Free Alongside Ship. Apparent Good OrderWhen freight appears to be free of damage after being assessed it is said to be in apparent good order. Arrival NoticeNotification provided by the carrier when a shipment has arrived to the consignee or notify party. AsternMeans either "behind a ship" or "to move a ship in reverse direction." ATDNSHINCStands for Any Time, Day or Night, Sundays and Holidays Included, referring to when a vessel will operate. AthwartshipsA direction across the width of a ship. AuditA thorough examination of a business’s processes to determine if the business is compliant with a particular set of standards. A government agency may audit a company’s processes or records as part of an investigation related to a potential compliance violation. In some industries, companies must pass periodic government audits to maintain their authorizations. Companies may also conduct internal audits (self-audit), or hire a third party to audit their processes. The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), the export control arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce, recommends that U.S. exporters periodically self-audit to ensure compliance procedures are working properly and are up-to-date with regulation changes. Auditability refers to the capacity of an auditor to audit an auditee. Sloppy record-keeping lowers auditability. An audit trail is a system (physical or electronic) that keeps track of business processes. See also: 4 Reasons to Audit Your Company’s Export Procedures Audit TrailA system that stores and maintains records of business processes. With regards to exporting, companies are strongly encouraged to maintain an audit trail documenting their compliance screenings in order to demonstrate due diligence in case of an audit. Having an audit trail may protect your company from fines or penalties in the case of an export compliance violation. Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA)A bilateral free trade agreement between the United States and Australia that implements a wide variety of trade policies designed to mutually benefit both countries. Modeled off of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the AUSFTA came into effect on Jan. 1, 2005. One of the primary goals of this agreement is to increase market access for Australian companies exporting to the United States. Automatic Identification System (AIS)A satellite system used by ships and vessel tracking service (VTS) to identify and locate ships. BackhaulCargo carried on a return journey. Balloon FreightFreight that is low weight but high volume (light but bulky). Bank DraftA financial instrument provided by a bank and drawn on another bank. See also: Understanding Bank Drafts: Sight Draft versus Time Draft BeamThe width of a ship. BeneficiaryThe party that receives payment. BilateralA bilateral agreement is one in which both parties agree to provide something for the other. Bill of LadingA document issued by a carrier or their agent acknowledging receipt of cargo for shipment. Often abbreviated as BOL, BoL, B/L or BL. If there were no issues with the cargo stated on the BOL, it is said to be a clean bill of lading. See also: What Is a Bill of Lading: 3 Things You Need to Know Bill of SaleA document that confirms transfer of goods in exchange for money. Bill-To PartyThe party paying for goods or services in a transaction. BISThe Bureau of Industry and Security, an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce tasked with enforcing the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Blocking or BracingWood or metal supports used to secure cargo while in transit. Also called dunnage. Block StowageLoading cargo close together to minimize movement of goods while in transit. BolsterA piece of equipment attached to a chassis or railcar to secure the container. Bond PortThe initial port of entry where a vessel transporting goods first arrives at a country. BookingArrangements made with a carrier for the movement of cargo; space reservation. BowThe front of a vessel. Broken StowageEmpty space in a container not occupied by cargo. Bulk CargoCargo that is shipped loose as opposed to being shipped in packages or containers. Grain and coal are examples of goods usually shipped as bulk cargo. Bull RingA device attached to the floor of a container which is used to secure cargo. CabotageTransport of goods between two places in the same country by a transporter from another country. CAFTA-DRThe Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement is a free trade agreement between the United States and several countries, including the Dominican Republic, as well as the Central American nations Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. The U.S. Senate approved the CAFTA-DR on June 30, 2005. The agreement includes a most favored nation (MFN) clause, which requires that service suppliers in one country may not be treated any less favorably than suppliers in other countries that are part of the agreement. It also includes provisions that protect companies in member countries from unfair investment practices, protect intellectual property rights and establish procedures for dispute resolution. Canada Customs InvoiceA Canada Customs Invoice is a special type of invoice required for U.S. exports to Canada in the following situations: 1.) The shipment is valued at over $2,500 CAD. 2.) The shipment is not classified under HTSUS Chapter 9810. 3.) The shipment is subject to duties and sales taxes. See our article: What You Need to Know about the Canada Customs Invoice. CargoAny goods being transported, regardless of the mode of transport. Cargo DeclarationInformation submitted prior to, upon arrival or upon departure of an international shipment required by a country’s customs authority. Cargo ManifestA document detailing the cargo carried on a ship, often provided to a customs authority. CARICOMAn intergovernmental organization of 15 Caribbean countries whose goal is to promote economic integration and cooperation between member states. The resulting free trade zone is called the Caribbean Common Market. CarnetA document permitting the holder to temporarily send goods to certain foreign countries for display or demonstration purposes without having to pay duties. See also: What is an ATA Carnet? Cash on Delivery (COD)The sale of goods in which payment is made upon delivery rather than in advance. CarrierA carrier is a party that transports goods for another person or company and is responsible for any possible loss of or damage to the goods during transport. A common carrier provides transportation services to the public in return for compensation. A contract carrier provides this service under special contracts, often for government clients. CBPCustoms and Border Protection, part of the Department of Homeland Security, is the agency within the U.S. government tasked with controlling the flow of people and goods into and out of the country, and with enforcing import and export regulations. CCC MarkA label indicating cargo conforms to standards established by the Chinese government. CCLThe Commerce Control List is a list of dual-use items (items that have both a commercial application as well as a potential military application) published as part of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Each item on the CCL is identified with an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN). Knowing the right ECCN for your product plays a role in determining if you need an export license. CE MarkA label indicating cargo conforms to standards established by the European Union. Certificate of Conformity (CoC)A document issued by an authorized party that states that a particular product meets relevant standards of quality and performance. Certificate of Free SaleThis document indicates a particular product is marketed in the United States or is eligible for export, and that the particular manufacturer has no unresolved enforcement actions pending before or taken by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is often used when exporting to countries whose regulatory agencies are not as well-developed as the United States’ FDA. Certificate of InspectionA document certifying that merchandise is in good condition immediately prior to being shipped. Certificate of Origin (COO)A document certifying where goods were originally made. A COO specific to a particular free trade agreement may be used to claim preferential duty treatment. A generic certificate of origin may be requested by the customs authority of the country of import, in which case the COO must be stamped by a chamber of commerce. CFRThe Code of Federal Regulations is the codification of rules and regulations published in the U.S. Federal Register. Chamber of CommerceAn association of businesses that may serve several functions, including advocating or lobbying for their member companies, organizing business-related programming and events in their communities, and, perhaps most relevant for exporters, providing document certification services. See also: The Chamber of Commerce and Export Documents: The Certificate of Origin Chamber StampCertain documents (such as certificates of origin) require a stamp from a U.S. chamber of commerce to be considered valid. The process of stamping the document is called chamberization, and a document that has received a chamber stamp is said to be chamberized. Chapter NotesSome parts of the Harmonized System (HS) nomenclature include notes. These may be divided into Section Notes, Chapter Notes and Subheading Notes. These notes hold legal weight as an integral part of the HS. Not to be confused with Explanatory Notes. See our article: When Classifying Parts Using HTS Codes, Read the Notes! ChassisThe base frame of a wheeled vehicle, used to secure a container prior to movement. ChockMaterial (often wood) placed next to cargo to prevent excessive movement of the cargo during transit in order to avoid damage. CLAbbreviation for carload or containerload. ClaimIn the context of logistics, a claim is a demand made by a customer to a transportation company for payment in order to compensate for loss or damage of goods. CM and cmCM (uppercase) stands for “cubic meters,” while cm (lowercase) stands for “centimeters.” Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)The codification of the general and permanent rules published by the U.S. Office of the Federal Register; the place where all U.S. federal regulations are published. 15 CFR (Title 15 of the CFR) is the section on Commerce and Foreign Trade. Commerce Country ChartPart of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which helps exporters determine if they need to apply for an export license in order to ship a particular product to a particular country. Commercial InvoiceA fundamental document for an international transaction with details including what goods are being shipped, who is the shipper and who is the ultimate consignee. Serves as the basis for all other documents related to the shipment. CommodityAny commercial good that is shipped. Common lawLaw that derives authority from precedent, custom and usage rather than from statutes, particularly regarding the laws of the United States, the United Kingdom and countries formerly part of the British Empire. ComplianceIn the context of international shipping, being compliant or maintaining compliance means that the company in question is following all applicable laws and rules which govern their shipments. In this context, the more specific terms regulatory compliance or trade compliance may be used to differentiate from other uses of the term, as the word compliance has other meanings in other contexts such as in the fields of medicine and psychology. A business practice that goes against specific laws is termed a compliance violation. See also: What to Do When You Encounter Export Violations Concealed Loss/Concealed DamageShortage of or damage to goods shipped that is not immediately evident upon delivery. Connecting CarrierA carrier which acts as an intermediary between two or more other carriers. ConsigneeThe person or place to whom a shipment will be transferred. The ultimate consignee is the final recipient of the goods, while an intermediate consignee takes possession of the goods for a portion of the time that they are in transit. ConsignmentA shipment of goods to a consignee. ConsignorRefers to the exporter or shipper from which the goods originate. ConsolidationWhen cargo from multiple shippers is combined in a single container. ConsulA government official residing in a foreign country who represents the interests of their home country. Consumption EntryWhen goods are imported into the United States without any time or use restrictions. The official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website states that about 95% of all imports fall into this category. ContainerA truck trailer loaded with cargo that can be detached for loading onto a vessel or railcar. Different types of containers exist for different shipping needs. For example, a container may be ventilated, refrigerated, insulated, dehumidified or equipped with special devices used to secure certain types of cargo. A container shipment is a large shipment, typically over 20,000 pounds. Container LoadA load large enough in volume or weight to fill a container. Container ManifestA document stating the contents of a container, its point of origin and point of destination. Vessels may be required by law to produce a manifest for every container being transported. ContrabandProhibited cargo such as illegal drugs or unauthorized weapons. ContractA legally binding agreement between two or more parties. Country of OriginWhere an item was made, mined, grown, manufactured or substantially transformed. Most items imported into the United States require a country of origin marking, also known as C/O marking, with the exception of items on the J-List (see J-List). C-TPATU.S. Customs and Border Protection established Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism in November 2001 as a voluntary partnership to help ensure supply chain security. Meeting C-TPAT standards enables faster processing through customs inspections and formalities. Cu.Abbreviation for “cubic” used when describing measurements of volume. Cube OutRefers to when a container or vessel has reached its volumetric capacity before reaching its weight capacity. CustomhouseA government office where duties are paid and import and export paperwork are filed. CustomsA customs authority, or customs for short, refers to the agency within a government that is responsible for collecting duties and enforcing import and export regulations. Customs Bonded WarehouseA warehouse authorized by customs to receive duty-free goods. Customs BrokerAn individual or organization who helps a shipper navigate customs requirements. Customs ClearanceThe process in which a customs authority assesses a shipment being imported in their country in order to ensure compliance with their country’s import regulations. A shipment that has been approved by the customs authority and allowed to enter the commerce of their country is said to have cleared customs. Customs EntryAlso called Entry Summary or Form 7501, is a document that provides U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) with details about a shipment being imported into the United States, such as value, classification and origin. CBP uses the form to calculate duties owed. Customs InvoiceA document required by a country’s customs authority, which serves the same purpose as a standard commercial invoice but also contains additional information such as a certificate of origin. Customs of the Port (COP)A phrase referring to local rules and practices which may impact a shipment. Customs Value OnlySome shipments involve no actual monetary transaction between the exporter and the ultimate consignee, such as shipments for repair under warranty, or shipments of items used for display at trade shows. These shipments are still subject to duties and taxes, and exporters must list the monetary value of the items in the shipment on the customs invoice to enable the customs authority in the country of import to assess how much duty the importer must pay. In these cases, the exporter should include a customs value only statement on the invoice. Cut-Off TimeThe latest time cargo may be delivered to a terminal for loading. Dangerous GoodsA product may be considered a dangerous good if it is corrosive, flammable, poisonous, toxic, explosive, etc. Shipping dangerous goods may require special documentation or packaging to ensure safety. See also: Hazardous Materials vs. Dangerous Goods: What's the Difference Dangerous Goods DeclarationA document required when shipping dangerous goods (also known as hazardous materials or HazMat). There are two main versions: the DG IATA form for air transport and the DG IMO form for inland and ocean transport. There is a third version specifically for shipments of lithium batteries, which is called a Lithium Battery Declaration. See our article: What You Need to Know about Shipping Dangerous Goods Destination Control StatementA legal statement put on an export invoice that specifies that the goods are to be transferred to the ultimate consignee and no other party. Diversion to other countries or parties without prior authorization is a violation of U.S. law. Also called an anti-diversion clause. DDTCDirectorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) is the government agency within the U.S. Department of State tasked with enforcing the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which regulate the export of space- and defense-related products. D&HAbbreviation for “dangerous and hazardous” cargo. DBAStands for “doing business as,” used to specify that a company is doing business under a certain registered name. Deconsolidation PointLocation where cargo is separated in preparation for delivery. Deemed ExportTransmission of controlled technology, source code or information to a foreign national at home or abroad. Export regulations apply to deemed exports as well. See also: Deemed Exports: Exporting Without Shipping a Product Delivery ReceiptA document signed and dated by a consignee or their authorized agent confirming receipt of goods and stating the condition of the goods upon delivery. Demurrage/DetentionDemurrage is a charge to be paid by a shipper or consignee to the carrier as penalty for delaying the carrier’s cargo beyond the allowed free time. Detention is the same as demurrage except that instead of applying to delays in cargo, detention applies to delays in equipment. Denied Party ScreeningAlso called restricted party screening or trade party screening, denied party screening is the process of screening potential customers, partners or vendors against denied party lists. These are lists of individuals or organizations that a government has identified as parties that one can’t do business with and that one may be penalized for doing business with. See also: Export Compliance: Understanding Restricted Party Screening Destination Control StatementA legal statement put on a shipping document that specifies that the goods are to be transferred to the ultimate consignee and no other party. Diversion to other countries or parties without prior authorization is a violation of U.S. law. See also: What Is the Destination Control Statement and Why Should It Be on Your Commercial Invoice? DiscrepancyWhen documents presented do not conform to the requirements of the letter of credit. Banks will not accept letters of credit that have discrepancies. Distribution CenterA location created for circulation of products into a specific market. This may or may not be a part of the same company that uses it to move their products to market. A company that specializes in distributing other companies’ products is called a distributor. See our article: Sealing the Deal: Selecting the Right Distributor for Your Exports DiversionDiversion refers either to 1) a change made to the route of a shipment or to the route of the entire vessel or 2) the transfer of goods from the intended end-user to some other party. DockFor road transportation, a platform from which trucks are loaded and unloaded. For sea transportation, a cargo handling area adjacent to the shoreline where a ship ties up. Dock ReceiptA document used to acknowledge receipt of cargo. Provides the framework for the preparation of an ocean bill of lading. DOTU.S. Department of Transportation, a U.S. agency within the executive branch that oversees transportation in the U.S. DrawbackA partial refund of an import fee, usually given if goods are re-exported from the country that collected the fee. DrayageTransport of goods over a short distance. Some definitions specify that drayage is the transport of goods in which both the trip origin and destination are within the same urban area. Also called cartage. Drop ShippingA form of retail business in which the seller takes orders from customers but does not keep the items in stock. Instead, it passes on the order to a manufacturer, wholesaler, another retailer or a fulfillment house that ships the order directly to the customer. Due DiligenceA company that makes a good faith effort to comply with all relevant rules and regulations that apply to them is said to be practicing due diligence. If you are found to be out of compliance with a particular regulation, demonstration of due diligence can be a mitigating factor against facing fines or penalties. This is an integral part of establishing a formal export compliance program (ECP). DumpingImporting goods into a country at a price less than the fair market value. Dutiable ValueThe amount on which a customs duty is calculated. DutiesTaxes collected on importing and exporting goods. Also called tariffs. EARThe Export Administration Regulations are published by the U.S. Department of Commerce and regulate exports of dual-use items, meaning items that have both a commercial use as well as a potential military application. ECCNExport Control Classification Numbers are alphanumeric codes used to identify dual-use items, meaning items that have both a commercial use as well as a potential military application. Knowing the right ECCN for your product plays a role in determining if you need an export license. eCOAn electronic Certificate of Origin is a digital document issued by a registered chamber of commerce to an exporter. Certificates of origin are a common customs document required by many countries and as part of various free trade agreements. An eCO is certified by a chamber of commerce electronically, which enables the certification process to occur more efficiently and at lower cost. Shipping Solutions has partnered with the American World Trade Chamber of Commerce (AWTCC) to provide the Shipping Solutions eCO Portal. EEIElectronic export information is the data that exporters must report to the Automated Export System (AES) via the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) online web portal. See also: Who is Responsible for Filing the Electronic Export Information (EEI)? Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)The electronic transmission of business documents such as invoices, purchase orders and bills of lading. EmbargoesSanctions are prohibitions designed to protect economic or national security and may include trade barriers, tariffs and restrictions on financial transactions. Embargoes are similar but usually refer to more severe restrictions such as travel bans or blockades. Eminent DomainThe power of a sovereign government to take property for a necessary public use. Empty RepoStands for empty repositioning; refers to the movement of empty containers. End-UserThe ultimate recipient of a shipment. Generally synonymous with ultimate consignee. This may be different from the party being billed for the shipment. EndorsementA legal signature that signals transfer of rights from one party to another. EntryIn the context of importing, an entry is an official statement made to Customs regarding details of a shipment entering the country. It is usually completed by a customs broker acting on behalf of the importer. Equipment Interchange Receipt (EIR)A document used when transferring a container from one carrier to another, or from one terminal to another. ERPEnterprise resource planning (ERP) software helps companies with order-processing and accounting. Some ERP systems include international shipping or trade compliance modules, but these are often limited in their functionality. See also: 6 Reasons Exporters are Frustrated with Their ERP’s Export Module ETA, ETC, ETD, ETR, ETSEstimated time of arrival, completion, departure, readiness or sailing. ExceptionA delivery in which the driver or recipient notes a problem on the delivery receipt before signing is referred to as an exception. An exception is usually related to shortage or damage of goods. Exclusive UseA shipper may pay a premium rate to obtain exclusive use of a trailer. This means the container will only be filled with the shipper’s goods and not those of any other party, even if there is additional space on the trailer. Explanatory NotesThe official interpretation of the Harmonized System (HS) at the international level, the Explanatory Notes are published by the World Customs Organization and provide a commentary on the scope of each heading, providing a list of products included or excluded, with technical descriptions of the items and guidance for their identification. Not to be confused with Chapter Notes. ExportShipment of goods out of a country. Opposite of import. Export Compliance Program (ECP)A company's written set of procedures for ensuring compliance when exporting. See also: Your Company Needs an Export Compliance Program. Export Controls/Import ControlsRefers to licenses, permits and other authorizations which may be required from a government to legally export or import something. Export Documentation SoftwareA software tool used by a company to ensure consistency, efficiency and auditability in their export documentation and compliance process, such as Shipping Solutions. Export LicenseA government-issued permit that authorizes a shipper to export a certain good or to export to a certain country or party. Download the free white paper: How to Determine if You Need an Export License Export Management CompanyExporting companies without their own export department sometimes outsource their export operations to an export management company (EMC). FAKAbbreviation for “freight all kinds.” Typically refers to a full container loaded with mixed cargo. False BillingMisrepresenting freight information on shipping documents. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC)The agency within the U.S. federal government tasked with enforcing laws related to transport of goods by sea. Federal RegisterThe Federal Register, sometimes abbreviated as Fed. Reg., FedReg, or FR, is the official journal of the U.S. government where new rules and regulations are published. FEU (Forty-Foot Equivalent Unit)A standard 40-foot shipping container, measuring approximately 40 feet long, 8 feet wide and 8.1 feet high. One standard FEU can hold 22 to 23 pallets. The container can carry approximately 58,930 pounds, depending on the shipping line's limitations. One FEU has the capacity of two TEUs. Force MajeureA common clause included in contracts that exempts parties for not fulfilling their obligations due to events beyond their control, such as natural disasters or war. Fore and AftThe direction on a ship parallel to the center line. Foreign Trade ZoneAreas where commodities can be manufactured, modified or stored under specific customs regulations and generally not subject to customs duties. May be abbreviated FTZ and sometimes called a free trade zone or free port. See also: Foreign Trade Zones: Advantages for Importers and Exporters FPPIForeign principal party of interest is the party to whom final delivery of the goods will be made, typically the foreign buyer. Free TimeThe amount of time that a carrier’s equipment may be used without incurring additional charges. FreightAny product(s) being transported. Freight BrokerA person who arranges transportation on behalf of a shipper. Typically a freight broker will connect small shippers to carriers who can move their goods. Freight ForwarderA company that arranges the transportation of goods on behalf of a shipper. A freight forwarder may have its own in-house carriers or may contract with external carriers. Freight forwarders often specialize in consolidating LTL freight from multiple shippers. FTAFree trade agreements are made between countries in an effort to reduce barriers to trade between the participating countries. They usually involve lowering of duty rates for shipments between participating countries, but may also include provisions for intellectual property rights, environmental protection, dispute resolution and more. FTRThe Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) are a set of regulations placed on international trade in the U.S. They are established and updated by the U.S. Census Bureau. It is in the FTR that the requirement to file the Electronic Export Information (EEI) through the Automated Export System (AES) can be found. See also: Why Is the Census Bureau Monitoring Your Exports? Full Truckload (FTL)A full truckload carrier is a carrier that contracts the entirety of a truck’s carrying capacity to a single customer. Often referred to as a truckload carrier. General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)A legal agreement between many countries which promoted international trade by eliminating trade barriers such as tariffs and quotas. It was succeeded by the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1995, with the original GATT text remaining part of the WTO framework. General OrderWhen U.S. Customs orders shipments without entries to be kept in their custody. Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)The total weight of a vehicle including the weight of the vehicle itself and any attached containers. HarbourA place where ships stop to resupply and load or unload cargo. Harbour MasterAn official responsible for overseeing harbour operations. HatchThe opening on the deck of a ship that gives access to the cargo hold. Hazardous Materials (HazMat)May be used interchangeably with the term “dangerous goods,” hazardous materials are goods that may pose a threat to safety because they are poisonous, toxic, corrosive, explosive, flammable, etc. More precisely, hazardous materials are defined by the U.S. Department of Transportation in accordance with the Federal Hazardous Material Law. It is more common to see the term “hazardous materials” used when shipping domestically within the U.S., whereas the term “dangerous goods” is used more often when shipping internationally. Shipping hazardous materials may require special documentation or packaging to ensure safety. HMFHarbor maintenance fee. See also: A Case of HaruMpF and MumPF HSThe Harmonized System is an internationally accepted system used to classify products. The first six digits of an HS code are universal across all countries, but each country will add additional digits to further specify products. HS codes play a role in determining import and export controls as well as duty rates. The code for a particular product is often called its tariff classification, as is the process for finding the right code. HTSUSThe Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is a classification system used for importing into the United States. It is based on the internationally recognized Harmonized System (HS). IMDGInternational Maritime Dangerous Goods code; the regulations established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the international transport of dangerous goods. ImportShipment of goods into a country. Opposite of export. Import DeclarationInformation submitted by an importer or their agent to their country’s customs authority before or upon importation of goods, such as the contact details of the importer, how the goods are being transported and the tariff classifications and values of the items on the shipment. Import LicenseA government-issued permit authorizing a party to import a good into the country. In BondAn import or export shipment that has not yet cleared customs is referred to as in bond. IncotermsIncoterms are universal trade terms published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC.) They consist of three-letter codes that are intended to clearly communicate the tasks, costs and risks associated with the transportation and delivery of goods in an international transaction. They describe how responsibility is allocated between the seller and the buyer for different parts of the transaction. Download the free Incoterms 2020 Chart of Responsibilities and Transfer of Risk Interchange PointA location where freight is transferred from one carrier to another. IntermodalIntermodal transportation is the movement of goods via more than one type of transportation (e.g. air, rail, sea, truck, etc.). An intermodal container is one that can be used in different modes of transport without having to unload the goods and reload them at each point at which the mode of transport changes. In the context of international trade, intermodal container is usually synonymous with container. International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)The ICC plays a role in rule setting, dispute resolution, and policy advocacy in international trade, supporting the commerce goals of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. Inward Foreign Manifest (IFM)A document listing all cargo entering a country. Required by all world ports and is the primary source from which import duties are assigned. ISPM 15International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM 15) is an international environmental standard for treating wood packaging materials (WPM) in order to curb the spread of plant pests. Under the ISPM 15 rules, all wood packaging materials such as pallets, crates and boxes must be debarked, then heat treated or fumigated to eliminate insects or diseases which could be harmful to ecosystems. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) adopted this standard in September 2005. ITARThe International Traffic in Arms Regulations regulate the export of space- or defense-related products and are enforced by the U.S. Department of State. See also: Understanding ITAR: The International Traffic in Arms Regulations JITAbbreviation for "just in time." A method of inventory control which minimizes warehousing and in which the container itself acts as a movable warehouse and arriving on schedule is crucial. J-ListFound in 19 CFR 134.33, the J-List is a list of items exempt from country of origin marking requirements when importing into the United States. Items on the J-list are usually exempt because they are either incapable of being marked (e.g. liquids) or marking them is impractical (e.g. fine art). LadenLoaded aboard a vessel. Landed CostThe total cost of an international shipment, found by adding the price paid by the buyer to the seller, shipping costs, shipment insurance and all applicable import duties and fees. Less-than-Truckload, Less-than-Load (LTL)A medium shipment, typically between 150 pounds and 20,000 pounds. An LTL carrier mixes freight from several customers in a single truckload. May also be called less-than-container (LCL). Letter of CreditAlso called a documentary collection and often abbreviated as LC or L/C, a letter of credit is a written commitment by a bank issued after a request by an importer that payment will be made to an exporter provided that the terms of the letter of credit have been met as evidenced by the presentation of certain documents. See also: What's a Letter of Credit? (Infographic). License ExceptionCertain criteria may be met that allow an exporter to export a product without an export license in cases where an export license would normally be required. These criteria are called license exceptions. See also: What You Need to Know about Export License Exceptions Liquidated DamagesThe penalty a seller must pay the buyer if a project does not meet the standards or deadline outlined in the sales contract. LiquidationIn the context of importing, liquidation is the process in which Customs finalizes its review of an entry and calculates the exact duties owed. ListThe amount that a vessel tilts from the vertical, measured in degrees. LogisticsThe management of the flow of products as they are transported from the point of origin to their final destination. A logistics company is a general term for a company that provides logistics services, which may include freight forwarding, customs brokerage and/or consulting services. LongshoremanA port employee tasked with loading and unloading ships. MalpracticeIn the context of shipping, malpractice refers to situations in which a carrier illegally gives preference to a customer in order to attract their business. MaritimeRelating to transport by sea. MarkingLetters, numbers or other symbols placed on packaging used for identification purposes. Master Bill of LadingA bill of lading issued by a carrier to a freight forwarder acknowledging receipt of container for shipment. This is different from a house bill of lading which is issued by a freight forwarder to a shipper, acknowledging receipt of their items for shipment. Most Favored Nation (MFN)A status accorded by one national government to another in the context of international business. A country with MFN status may not be treated less favorably in international transactions than any other country with MFN status. MPFMerchandise processing fee. See also: A Case of HaruMpF and MumPF MultimodalSee intermodal. NAFTAThe North American Free Trade Agreement was established in 1994 to harmonize trade between the United States, Canada and Mexico. Companies located in these countries may be eligible for reduced duty rates when importing if their goods qualify under the terms of NAFTA. NAFTA was replaced on July 1, 2020, by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). NCBFAAThe National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America is an organization representing the interests of customs brokers and freight forwarders in the U.S. They publish guidelines on best practices, including specific guidelines on how to create a shipper’s letter of instruction (SLI) when authorizing freight forwarders to file through the Automated Export System (AES) on behalf of the exporter. NEC, NESNot elsewhere classified, not elsewhere specified. Negotiable/Non-NegotiableA negotiable instrument is a document that can be transferred from its original holder to a third party. A non-negotiable document cannot be transferred to another party. An inland or ocean bill of lading may be either negotiable or non-negotiable; a bill of lading consigned “to order” or “to order of shipper” is negotiable once it is endorsed on the back by the shipper or their representative. Airwaybills are always non-negotiable. See also: What Is a Bill of Lading: 3 Things You Need to Know Net WeightThe weight of goods not including the weight of their packaging. Non-Dumping CertificateRequired by some countries to ensure protection against dumping of certain products. NVOCCA non-vessel operating common carrier behaves like a carrier except it doesn’t provide the actual transportation service itself. Instead, a NVOCC buys space from carriers and sells this space to shippers. On BoardA notation on a bill of lading indicating that cargo has been loaded on a ship. On DeckA notation on a bill of lading indicating that cargo has been stowed on the open deck of a ship. Open AccountA transaction in which goods are shipped to a foreign buyer without guarantee of payment. Operating RatioA measure of operating efficiency based on a comparison between a carrier’s operating expenses and its net sales. OriginCan mean 1) Location where a shipment starts its journey or 2) Country where goods were originally manufactured. OverageWhen the number of units received is greater than the quantity stated on the export documents. Opposite of shortage. Packing ListA standard document that accompanies a shipment. Also called a packing slip, this document lists the products on a shipment along with packaging information but does not include prices. See also: The Importance of an Export Packing List for Your International Shipments PalletA platform on which packages may be loaded. Facilitates easier handling by a lift truck. Panama-United States Trade Promotion AgreementThe free trade agreement between the United States and Panama that came into effect in October 2012. It is designed to eliminate obstacles to trade between the two countries and is notable for being the United States’ only bilateral free trade agreement with a Central American country. Parcel/Package/Small Parcel/Small PackageA small shipment, typically less than 150 pounds. PayeeThe party paid in a transaction; the seller. PayerThe party paying money in a transaction; the buyer. Payment TermsTerms that describe how money will be paid in a transaction. Typically, the shipper is responsible for payment for prepaid shipments, while the consignee is responsible for payment for collect shipments, unless a third party is indicated as the payor on the shipping documents. Phytosanitary Inspection CertificateA document issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture certifying that a shipment has been inspected and is free from harmful pests and plant diseases. Used to meet import requirements of other countries. PierA structure perpendicular to the shoreline to which a ship is secured in order to load or unload cargo. Place of DeliveryLocation where cargo leaves the custody of a carrier. Place of ReceiptLocation where cargo enters the custody of a carrier. PODAbbreviation for 1) port of discharge 2) port of destination or 3) proof of delivery, a document provided by the carrier required to receive payment. Point of OriginThe location where a shipment is transferred from a shipper to a carrier. POLAbbreviation for 1) port of loading or 2) petroleum, oil and lubricants. Political RiskThe likelihood that political forces will cause drastic changes in a country’s business environment that adversely affect the profit and other goals of a business enterprise. This may include political violence, expropriation, confiscation and domestication (sometimes called nationalization). See also: Why Managing Political Risk Is Critical for Exporters PortMay refer to 1) A harbour with piers or docks 2) The left side of a ship (when facing forward, opposite of starboard) or 3) An opening in the side of a ship used for handling freight. Port of CallPort where a ship discharges or receives traffic. Port of EntryPort where cargo is unloaded and enters a country. Port of ExitPort where cargo is loaded and leaves a country. PPIPrincipal party of interest. See FPPI and USPPI. PrepaidFreight charges paid by a shipper prior to release of bills of lading by the carrier. Product ClassificationIn the context of international trade, there are many classification systems that allocate specific numeric or alphanumeric codes to particular categories of products, including the Harmonized System (HS) and derivatives of the HS such as Schedule B and the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), as well as Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) and United States Munitions List (USML) categories. Knowing the correct classifications of the products you export is important for customs clearance and determining if you need an export license. Also called commodity classification. (Download our free white paper Classifying Your Products for International Trade). Proforma InvoiceA document that acts as a formal quote, produced by the seller and given to the potential buyer before a transaction is finalized. See also: How Does the Proforma Invoice Fit in the Sales Process? QuarantineA restriction placed on an operation in order to protect public health and safety. QuotaThe quantity of goods that may be imported without restrictions over a set period of time. QuotationUsually called a quote, an offer to sell goods at a stated price under stated conditions. Rate BasisThe formula of specific factors that play a role in determining freight rates. Reasons for ControlSpecific reasons outlined in the U.S. Export Administration Regulations that denote why an exporter would need to apply for an export license. Examples include National Security (NS) and Regional Stability (RS). These exist both at the country level and at the Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) level. In order for a reason for control to apply to a shipment, it must be listed at both the country level and ECCN level. See our article: Export Administration Regulations: Understanding Reasons for Control RFP, RFQRequest for proposal, request for quotation. ReasonablenessUnder ICC and common law, the requirement that a freight rate not be higher than what is necessary to reimburse the carrier and allow a fair profit. RelayThe transfer of containers from one ship to another when both ships are controlled by the same carrier. RemittanceFunds sent by one person to another as payment. RevenuePayment received by a carrier for transporting goods. Roll-on/Roll-offAlso called RORO or ro-ro for short, these are vessels designed to carry wheeled cargo, such as vehicles and trailers. This is in contrast to lift-on/lift off (LoLo) vessels which use a crane to load and unload cargo. SanctionAn embargo enforced by a government against another country. SBAThe Small Business Administration is an executive agency of the U.S. government that exists to encourage and facilitate the growth and development of small businesses and entrepreneurs in America.
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