Changes to the In-Bond Process, 45366-45408 [2017-20495]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 187 (Thursday, September 28, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 45366-45408]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-20495]



[[Page 45365]]

Vol. 82

Thursday,

No. 187

September 28, 2017

Part II





Department of Homeland Security





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U.S. Customs and Border Protection





Department of the Treasury





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19 CFR Parts 4, 10, 18, et al.





Changes to the In-Bond Process; Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 187 / Thursday, September 28, 2017 / 
Rules and Regulations

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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

19 CFR Parts 4, 10, 18, 19, 113, 122, 123, 141, 142, 143, 144, 146, 
151, and 181

[USCBP-2012-0002: CBP Dec. 17-13]
RIN 1515-AD81


Changes to the In-Bond Process

AGENCY: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland 
Security; Department of the Treasury.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This final rule adopts, with several changes, proposed 
amendments to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations 
regarding changes to the in-bond process published in the Federal 
Register on February 22, 2012. The in-bond process allows imported 
merchandise to be entered at one U.S. port of entry without 
appraisement or payment of duties and transported by a bonded carrier 
to another U.S. port of entry or other authorized destination provided 
all statutory and regulatory conditions are met. At the destination 
port, the merchandise is entered or exported. The changes in this rule, 
including the automation of the in-bond process, will enhance CBP's 
ability to regulate and track in-bond merchandise and ensure that in-
bond merchandise is properly entered or exported. This document 
addresses comments received in response to the proposed rule and makes 
several changes in response to the comments that further simplify and 
facilitate the in-bond process.

DATES: This rule is effective on November 27, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: James Swanson, Director, Cargo 
Security and Controls, Cargo Conveyance & Security, Office of Field 
Operations, (202) 325-1257.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents

I. Background
    A. Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
    B. Summary of Main Changes From NPRM
    1. In-Transit Time for Merchandise Transported by Barge
    2. Uniform Timeframe for Report of Arrival, Notice of Export, 
and Other Events
    3. Description of the Merchandise
    4. Reporting the Quantity of In-Bond Merchandise
    5. Divided Shipments
    6. Clarification of the Term ``Bonded Carrier''
    7. Transfer (Transshipment) From One Conveyance to Another
    8. Seals--Transportation of Bonded Merchandise With Non-Bonded 
Merchandise
    9. Other Changes
    C. Flexible Enforcement Period
II. Discussion of Comments
    A. Comments Regarding This Rulemaking Generally
    1. Elimination of In-Bond Types
    2. Scope
    3. Outreach
    4. In-Bond Shipments Between the United States and Canada
    B. Electronic Filing and Processing of In-Bond Applications
    1. Filing the In-Bond Application
    2. Elimination of the CBP Form 7512
    3. Information Required
    4. Updating and Amending the In-Bond Record
    5. Who May File
    6. Licensed Customs Brokers
    7. Unauthorized Use of a Bond
    8. Procedures
    9. Change of Foreign Destination
    C. New Information Requirements for In-Bond Shipments
    1. New Information Requirements Generally
    2. Special Classes of Merchandise
    3. Quantity
    4. Location of the Merchandise
    5. Destination
    D. In-Transit Time
    1. In-Transit Time Generally
    2. In-Bond Shipments Transported by Barge
    3. Extension of In-Transit Time
    4. Shortening of In-Transit Time
    5. Start of In-Transit Time
    6. Procedures
    7. Intermodal Transportation
    8. Report of Arrival
    9. General Order Merchandise
    E. Transfers
    F. Sealing of Conveyances and Reporting of Seal Numbers
    G. Air Cargo
    H. Liability of the Parties
    I. Export of Merchandise
    1. Reporting Arrival at Port of Exportation
    2. Proof of Exportation
    J. Diversion of Merchandise
    K. Immediate Transportation
    L. Divided Shipments and Retention of Goods Within Port Limits
    1. Divided Shipments
    2. Retention of Goods Within Port Limits
    M. Potential Impact
    N. Miscellaneous Items
    1. Impact on Inland Ports
    2. Supervision of Rail Shipments
    3. Textiles
    4. Cartmen
    5. Carnets
    6. Sharing of Information and Confidentiality
    7. Definitions
    8. Restriction of Immediate Exportation by Truck
    9. Express Shipments
    10. Automated Broker Interface (ABI)
    11. Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs)
    12. Importer Security Filing (ISF)
    13. Redelivery
    14. Pipelines
III. Adoption of Proposal
IV. Regulatory Analyses
    A. Executive Order 12866--Regulatory Planning and Review
    B. Regulatory Flexibility Act
    Summary FRFA
    C. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    D. Paperwork Reduction Act
V. Signing Authority
VI. Regulatory Amendments

List of Acronyms and Technical Terms

ABI Automated Broker Interface
ACE Automated Commercial Environment
AMS Automated Manifest System
CBP Customs and Border Protection
DHS Department of Homeland Security
EDI Electronic Data Interchange
EIN Employer Identification Number
FIRMS Facilities Information and Resources Management System
FTZ Foreign Trade Zone
GAO Government Accountability Office
HTSUS Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
ISF Importer Security Filing
IE Immediate Exportation
IT Immediate Transportation
NVOCC Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier
SCAC Standard Carrier Alpha Code
SNP Secondary Notify Party
T&E Transportation and Exportation
VOC Vessel Operating Carrier
QP/WP--An ABI hosted in-bond system for all modes that allows all 
parties, carriers and non-carriers, to submit electronic in-bond 
applications directly to CBP, as well as report their arrival and 
export. The ``QP'' half is the application function, the ``WP'' half 
is the arrival/export function.

I. Background

    Pursuant to 19 U.S.C. 1552 and 19 U.S.C. 1553, merchandise may be 
entered at a U.S. port of entry, without appraisement or the payment of 
duties, for transportation to another port for entry, or for 
exportation, provided that all statutory and regulatory conditions are 
met. The applicable regulations governing the transportation of in-bond 
merchandise under the above authorities are set forth in title 19 of 
the Code of Federal Regulations (19 CFR), parts 18, 122, and 123. Part 
18 covers ``Transportation in bond and merchandise in transit''; part 
122 covers ``Air Commerce regulations''; and part 123 covers ``CBP 
relations with Canada and Mexico.'' For a detailed discussion of the 
statutory and regulatory histories, and the factors governing 
development of these regulations, see the notice of proposed rulemaking 
(NPRM), ``Changes to the In-Bond Process,'' published in the Federal 
Register on February 22, 2012 (77 FR 10622).
    Generally, when merchandise reaches the United States, the 
merchandise may

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be entered for consumption, entered for warehouse, admitted into a 
foreign trade zone, or entered for transportation in-bond to another 
port. The focus of this rule is on merchandise that is entered for 
transportation in-bond. Transportation of merchandise in-bond is the 
movement of imported merchandise, secured by a bond, from one port to 
another prior to the appraisement of the merchandise and without the 
payment of duties. The transportation of in-bond merchandise is 
frequently referred to as an in-bond movement or shipment.
    There are three types of in-bond transportation entries: Immediate 
Transportation (IT), Transportation and Exportation (T&E), and 
Immediate Exportation (IE). An IT entry allows merchandise upon its 
arrival at a U.S. port to be transported to another U.S. port, where a 
subsequent entry must be filed. See 19 U.S.C. 1552 and 19 CFR 18.11. A 
T&E entry allows merchandise to be entered at a U.S. port for transit 
through the United States to another U.S. port, where the merchandise 
is exported without the payment of duties. See 19 U.S.C. 1553 and 19 
CFR 18.20. An IE entry allows cargo that has arrived at a U.S. port to 
be immediately exported from that same port without the payment of 
duties. See 19 CFR 18.7 and 18.25.

A. Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

    On February 22, 2012, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published 
a NPRM titled ``Changes to the In-Bond Process'' in the Federal 
Register (77 FR 10622), proposing to revise the in-bond regulations in 
part 18 as well as other applicable parts of the CBP regulations. The 
proposed amendments would change the in-bond process from a paper-
dependent process to an automated paperless process, provide CBP with 
the necessary tools to better track in-bond merchandise to improve 
security and trade compliance, and address certain weaknesses in the 
in-bond system identified by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) 
in a report to Congress dated April 17, 2007 (GAO Report).
    CBP proposed making the following five major changes to the in-bond 
process: (1) Except for merchandise transported by pipeline and truck 
shipments transiting the United States from Canada, eliminate the paper 
in-bond application (CBP Form 7512) and require carriers or their 
agents to electronically file the in-bond application; (2) require 
additional information on the in-bond application including the six-
digit Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States number if 
available; (3) establish a 30-day maximum transit time to transport in-
bond merchandise between U.S. ports, for all modes of transportation 
except pipeline; (4) require carriers to electronically request and 
receive permission from CBP before diverting in-bond merchandise from 
its intended destination port to another port; and (5) require carriers 
to report the arrival and location of the in-bond merchandise within 24 
hours of arrival at the port of destination or port of exportation. CBP 
did not propose changing the in-bond procedures found in the air 
commerce regulations at 19 CFR part 122, subparts J and L, except to 
change the specified maximum transit and export times to conform to the 
proposed changes in Part 18. For a detailed discussion of the proposed 
changes to the regulations and the GAO Report see the NPRM.
    CBP requested public comments on the NPRM. In response, CBP 
received 51 comments from the trade community including carriers, 
brokers, importers, freight forwarders, zone operators, and trade 
groups. The comments were generally favorable to the rule as a whole. 
However, commenters raised concerns about specific proposed amendments 
and how the amendments would affect their operations. Many comments and 
questions related to the automated systems for the electronic filing of 
in-bond transactions. After consideration of all the comments, CBP has 
decided to issue this final rule, which adopts the proposed amendments 
with several changes in response to the comments. The main changes are 
summarized in Section I.B., Summary of Main Changes from NPRM, and 
explained in more detail in Section II, Discussion of Comments. 
Additional technical and conforming changes are also explained in 
Section II, Discussion of Comments. CBP is also adding a flexible 
implementation and enforcement period, as described in Section I.C.

B. Summary of Main Changes From NPRM

1. In-Transit Time for Merchandise Transported by Barge
    CBP received many comments regarding the proposed requirement that 
all in-bond movements must be completed within 30 days. Specifically, 
commenters expressed concern that due to the specific circumstances of 
barge transportation, it is not feasible for all in-bond shipments 
transported by barge to be completed within 30 days and stated that the 
current 60-day in-bond barge transit time should be maintained. The 
specific comments are addressed in more detail in Section II, 
Discussion of Comments.
    Because of the unique nature of barge transportation and because of 
the various factors that can delay barge shipments, CBP is changing 
proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(1) in the final rule to extend the in-transit 
time for in-bond merchandise transported by barge to 60 days, while 
maintaining the proposed 30-day transit time for the other modes of 
transportation.
2. Uniform Timeframe for Report of Arrival, Notice of Export, and Other 
Events
    The current regulations require the bonded carrier to report to CBP 
the arrival of any portion of the in-bond shipment promptly, but no 
more than two working days after the arrival of the merchandise at the 
port of destination or the port of exportation. The bonded carrier 
generally must manually surrender the in-bond document, CBP Form 7512, 
to the port director, as notice of arrival of the merchandise. See 19 
CFR 18.2(d).
    To allow for better tracking, CBP proposed to amend Sec. Sec.  
18.1, 18.7, and 18.20 to require that the report of arrival for each 
in-bond shipment be made within 24 hours of the arrival of the 
merchandise at the port of destination or the port of exportation and 
to require the delivering bonded carrier to transmit the notice of 
arrival electronically via a CBP-approved EDI system. CBP also proposed 
that when in-bond merchandise is exported, CBP be notified of the 
export within 24 hours of export.
    CBP received many comments expressing concern that the requirement 
to report the arrival of merchandise within 24 hours of arrival would 
result in firms having to increase their staffing levels and suggested 
that CBP retain or extend the current two-day reporting requirement. 
The specific comments are discussed in Section II, Discussion of 
Comments.
    CBP proposed shortening the above timeframes to improve CBP's 
ability to track in-bond merchandise. However, after further 
consideration and a review of the comments, CBP decided not to shorten 
the reporting timeframe. Therefore, CBP is changing proposed Sec.  
18.1(j) in the final rule to retain the current time limit of two 
working days for bonded carriers to report the arrival of merchandise 
at the port of destination or port of exportation with one technical 
change. CBP is also changing proposed Sec.  18.7(a)(3) regarding the 
timeframe for submitting the notice of export from 24 hours to two 
business days. In addition, CBP is changing all the provisions in

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part 18 that impose a timeframe for reporting or updating the in-bond 
record to two business days so that the requirements are uniform. The 
sections in part 18 where these changes have been made are Sec. Sec.  
18.1(d)(1)(v), 18.1(h), 18.1(j), 18.7(a)(1), 18.7(a)(3), 18.20, 
18.23(a), 18.24(b), 18.25(f), and 18.26(e).
3. Description of the Merchandise
    CBP received many comments about the proposed required information 
on the in-bond application as specified in proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1). 
Among other things, CBP proposed requiring the six-digit Harmonized 
Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) number if the number is 
available. If the six-digit HTSUS number is not available, then a 
detailed description must be provided setting forth the exact nature of 
the merchandise with sufficient detail to enable CBP and other 
government agencies to determine if the merchandise is subject to a 
rule, regulation, law, standard or ban relating to health, safety or 
conservation. CBP also proposed that if the carrier or other 
responsible party submitting the in-bond application knows that the 
merchandise is subject to a rule, regulation, law, standard or ban 
relating to health, safety or conservation enforced by CBP or another 
government agency, a statement must be provided setting forth the rule, 
regulation, law, standard or ban to which the merchandise is subject 
and the name of the government agency responsible for enforcing the 
rule, regulation, law, standard or ban. Many commenters thought the 
proposed requirements were too onerous and that carriers would not have 
access to the required information.
    In response to the above concerns, CBP is eliminating or changing 
several proposed required data elements on the in-bond application. 
First, CBP is removing the requirement in proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(ii) 
that, if the party submitting the in-bond application knows that the 
merchandise is subject to a rule, regulation, law, standard or ban 
relating to healthy safety or conservation, the filer must provide that 
information to CBP along with the name of the government agency 
responsible for enforcing the rule, regulation, law, standard or ban. 
In its place, CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(ii) in the 
final rule to require that in-bond merchandise subject to the authority 
of a U.S. government agency be described with sufficient accuracy to 
enable the agency concerned to determine the contents of the shipment.
    Second, CBP is removing the requirement in proposed Sec.  
18.1(d)(1)(iii) that the in-bond filer identify prohibited or 
restricted merchandise.
    Third, CBP is removing the requirement in proposed Sec.  
18.1(d)(1)(iv) to provide information regarding textiles and textile 
products for all in-bond applications. This requirement will be 
retained in a new paragraph (d) in Sec.  18.11 governing T&E in-bond 
movements. This is consistent with current regulations and should 
therefore provide no additional burden to parties moving merchandise 
in-bond.
    Fourth, CBP is eliminating the requirement in proposed Sec.  
18.1(d)(1)(v) that the filer of the in-bond application ``must 
provide'' information regarding merchandise for which the U.S. 
Government, foreign government or other issuing authority, has issued a 
visa, permit, license, or other similar number or identifying 
information and stating instead that the filer ``may provide'' this 
information. In lieu of requiring all of the information above, CBP is 
changing proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(l)(i) to require the filer to provide 
the six-digit HTSUS number. This is necessary to ensure that CBP knows 
what merchandise is being transported in-bond in light of the above 
changes to the required information. The six-digit HTSUS number should 
be available to in-bond filers because importers need this information 
to determine duty, cost and admissibility status prior to finalizing 
purchase contracts or shipment contracts. The six-digit HTSUS number is 
one of the required data elements for the Importer Security Filing 
(ISF) for all merchandise arriving by vessel.
4. Reporting the Quantity of In-Bond Merchandise
    CBP received many comments about the requirement in proposed Sec.  
18.1(d)(1)(vi) to provide ``the quantity of the merchandise to be 
transported to the smallest piece count'' in the in-bond application. 
Commenters found this proposal confusing and requested clarification. 
To address this concern, CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(vi) 
to incorporate similar language used in Sec. Sec.  4.7a (inward 
manifest) and 123.92 (electronic information for truck cargo required 
in advance of arrival) regarding quantity. Specifically, CBP is 
changing the text in the final rule to require ``the quantity of the 
smallest external packing unit.''
5. Divided Shipments
    The current regulations allow an in-bond shipment to be split after 
the shipment reaches the port of destination with a portion of the 
shipment entered for consumption or warehouse while the remainder of 
the shipment is forwarded under a new in-bond to a different port of 
destination. That provision is contained in Sec.  18.5, which governs 
in-bond shipments diverted from one destination port to another. 
Because the provisions for splitting a shipment are not limited to 
diverted shipments we are moving the text of this provision, currently 
proposed Sec.  18.5(d), to a new paragraph (m) in Sec.  18.1.
6. Clarification of the Term ``Bonded Carrier''
    CBP received several comments and questions about which party would 
be considered the ``bonded carrier'' and would therefore be liable for 
a failure to comply with the in-bond requirements. To address these 
comments, CBP is adding a definition of the term ``bonded carrier'' in 
Sec.  18.0(b). ``Bonded carrier'' is defined as a ``carrier of 
merchandise whose bond under Sec.  113.63 of this title is obligated 
for the transportation and delivery of merchandise.'' The party that 
will be ultimately liable is the party whose bond is obligated in the 
in-bond record for the in-bond movement.
7. Transfers (Transshipment) From One Conveyance to Another
    A review of the comments addressing proposed Sec.  18.3, revealed 
that there is some confusion regarding the scope of the term 
``transshipment'' and how the provision should be applied. In order to 
clarify the rules that apply when merchandise is transferred from one 
conveyance to another, CBP is replacing the term ``transshipment'' with 
the term ``transfer.'' Accordingly, CBP is renaming Sec.  18.3 from 
``Transshipment; transfer by bonded cartmen'' to ``Transfers.'' In the 
discussion that follows, the term ``transfer'' will be used instead of 
``transshipment.''
    The main concern of the commenters with regard to proposed Sec.  
18.3 is with the requirement to report to CBP each time the merchandise 
is transferred from one conveyance to another. Because in-bond 
merchandise may be transferred several times during the course of its 
journey, it is claimed that this reporting requirement places a 
substantial burden on the bonded carrier liable under the bond.
    CBP has reevaluated this requirement in light of the comments and 
has concluded that the requirement to notify CBP when in-bond 
merchandise is transferred from one conveyance to another is not 
necessary. The important information for CBP is which party has assumed 
liability for the shipment of the in-bond merchandise. Accordingly, CBP 
is changing proposed Sec.  18.3 by removing the requirement to notify 
CBP

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when merchandise is transferred from one conveyance to another.
    In addition, CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.3 to require that 
when in-bond merchandise is taken over by a subsequent bonded carrier 
which assumes liability for the merchandise, a report of arrival must 
be filed by the original bonded carrier and the subsequent carrier must 
submit a new in-bond application pursuant to Sec.  18.1 for the 
merchandise to be transported in-bond.
8. Seals--Transportation of Bonded Merchandise With Non-Bonded 
Merchandise
    CBP received many comments expressing concern about proposed 
amendments to Sec.  18.4 governing the sealing of conveyances and 
containers. One of the principal concerns was that the proposed 
regulations do not allow for the transportation of in-bond merchandise 
with non-bonded merchandise in the same container, unless all of the 
merchandise, bonded and non-bonded, is destined for the same port. The 
result is that in-bond merchandise would not be able to be shipped in 
``less than container loads'' with non-bonded merchandise.\1\
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    \1\ Less than container load, or LCL, is a term commonly used in 
the transportation industry to refer to cargo containers that hold 
goods belonging to more than one shipper or consignee. Carriers use 
LCL shipments when a load of merchandise is not large enough to fill 
an entire cargo container. Freight in an LCL shipment is frequently 
transported to multiple destinations.
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    CBP has reviewed these comments and concurs that, as proposed, the 
limitations on transporting in-bond merchandise with non-bonded 
merchandise would unnecessarily hamper the transportation of in-bond 
merchandise. Accordingly, CBP is changing the sealing requirements in 
proposed Sec.  18.4 by adding new provisions Sec.  18.4(b)(2) and (3) 
in the final rule that allow for the transportation of in-bond 
merchandise with non-bonded merchandise in a container or compartment 
that is not sealed, if the in-bond merchandise is corded and sealed, or 
labeled as in-bond merchandise. This will allow in-bond merchandise to 
be transported with non-bonded merchandise in a container that is not 
sealed and will facilitate the filling of containers that would 
otherwise be less than container load shipments.
    Additionally, for clarity, the provision regarding the breaking of 
seals in case of an emergency or for some other reason is being moved 
from Sec.  18.3 (transshipment) to Sec.  18.4 (sealing conveyances, 
compartments and containers). In response to comments, CBP is removing 
the requirements to obtain CBP permission to break and replace a seal. 
However, as provided in Sec.  163.1, the transportation or storage of 
merchandise carried or held under bond into or from the customs 
territory of the United States is an activity covered by the general 
recordkeeping requirements of part 163. Such activity would include the 
breaking and replacing of seals on merchandise transported in-bond. 
Therefore, records pertaining to such activity would be covered under 
part 163.
9. Other Changes
    CBP is making additional wording changes and minor editorial 
changes for better organization or to improve clarity. Among other 
changes, CBP is no longer using the term ``ultimate destination'' in 
proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(vi) to avoid inconsistency with other export 
laws and regulations and is revising paragraph (vi) to clarify the 
destination information that is required on the in-bond application for 
IT shipments and T&E/IE shipments. In addition, CBP is adding a 
sentence to proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(1), which sets forth the maximum in-
transit time, to clarify that in-bond merchandise transported by 
pipeline is not subject to the time limits in that section. CBP is also 
revising proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(2), which provides procedures on 
requesting an extension of the in-transit time, to clarify that the 
decision to extend the in-transit time period is within CBP's 
discretion and to describe some of the factors that may be considered 
in CBP's decision to extend the in-transit time period. For further 
discussion, see Section II, Discussion of Comments.

C. Flexible Enforcement Period

    In order to provide the trade with sufficient time to adjust to the 
new requirements and in consideration of the business process changes 
that may be necessary to achieve full compliance, CBP in implementing 
and enforcing the rule, will take into account challenges that carriers 
may face in complying with the rule, so long as carriers are making 
satisfactory progress toward compliance and are making a good faith 
effort to comply with the rule to the extent of their ability. This 
flexible enforcement will last for 90 days after the effective date of 
this rule. Additionally, CBP will provide guidance on the new 
requirements and endeavor to conduct outreach to interested parties in 
order to facilitate a smooth transition to the new requirements.

II. Discussion of Comments

A. Comments Regarding This Rulemaking Generally

1. Elimination of In-Bond Types
    Comment: The specific types of transportation entries (IE, T&E, IT) 
are outdated and have no effect on cargo security and the movement of 
goods. Therefore, CBP should consider eliminating them and apply a 
generic in-bond transportation entry to cover all movement types. CBP 
currently receives data elements indicating a domestic (D) and 
international export (I) during the in-bond request process and would 
know the anticipated movement as a result of these designations.
    CBP Response: The current system using specific bond types is 
derived from 19 U.S.C. 1552 and 1553 which provide for ``entry for 
immediate transportation'' and ``entry for transportation and 
exportation,'' respectively. Therefore, CBP cannot eliminate them. The 
current system is beneficial in that it clearly specifies the intended 
disposition of the goods, i.e., whether the goods will be exported, 
transported to another port for possible consumption entry, or 
transported to another port for exportation. There are separate rules 
for the handling and processing of in-bond merchandise depending on the 
type of in-bond entry, for example an Importer Security Filing (ISF) is 
required for a T&E and not an IT.
2. Scope
    Comment: CBP should clarify the relationship between proposed Sec.  
18.0(a), with respect to requirements and procedures in part 18 of the 
in-bond regulations and the requirements and procedures of parts 122 
and 123 (Air Commerce, and Customs Relations with Canada and Mexico, 
respectively).
    CBP Response: Proposed Sec.  18.0 (Scope; definitions), provides 
that except as provided in parts 122 and 123, part 18 sets forth the 
requirements and procedures pertaining to the transportation of 
merchandise in-bond. Parts 122 (Air Commerce) and 123 (Customs 
Relations with Canada and Mexico) govern the rules and procedures for 
the transportation of in-bond merchandise in the air environment and 
merchandise traveling through and into the United States by truck and 
train. This means that the provisions of part 18 are applicable to the 
in-bond procedures not addressed by specific instruction in parts 122 
and 123. For example, proposed Sec.  18.8 governing the liability of 
in-bond carriers is applicable to all in-bond

[[Page 45370]]

movements, regardless of the mode of transportation. Conversely, 
proposed Sec.  18.4(a)(1) requiring the sealing of containers does not 
apply to in-bond merchandise traveling by air, because Sec.  122.92(f) 
specifically provides that the sealing of aircraft, aircraft 
compartments carrying bonded merchandise, or the cording and sealing of 
bonded packages carried by the aircraft, is not required. More 
information on the in-bond transport of air cargo is discussed in 
Section II.G., Air Cargo.
3. Outreach
    Comment: CBP should conduct multiple public meetings well in 
advance of publication of the final rule. These meetings will allow a 
necessary forum by which the entire trade community (exporters, freight 
forwarders, warehouse operators, agents, and carriers) can engage with 
government to learn about the justifications behind these significant 
modifications to the current in-bond process. This will also provide 
all affected parties the opportunity to discuss mutually beneficial 
alternatives which may accomplish the government's objectives without 
putting any sector of the trade at an economic disadvantage when 
competing in the increasingly fast paced global marketplace.
    Should CBP decide to adopt a final rule which does not adopt many 
of the suggested changes included in the comments, CBP should meet with 
the affected commenter prior to the finalization and publication of the 
rule in the Federal Register.
    CBP Response: CBP worked closely with the various sectors of the 
trade community, the Trade Support Network (TSN), the Customs 
Electronic Systems Action Committee (CESAC), and the Advisory Committee 
on Commercial Operations of Customs and Border Protection (COAC), 
before publishing the NPRM regarding the general changes to the in-bond 
system that were being considered, and CBP took into account extensive 
feedback from the trade community in the formation of the NPRM. 
Although CBP has not conducted public meetings or met privately with 
interested parties regarding the proposals published in the NPRM, CBP 
has carefully analyzed the various comments that have been submitted 
and has incorporated numerous suggestions made by the commenters in the 
drafting of this final rule. In order to provide the trade sufficient 
time to adjust to the new requirements and in consideration of the 
business process changes that may be necessary to achieve full 
compliance, CBP is providing a 60-day delayed effective date to be 
followed by a 90-day flexible enforcement period. This means that CBP 
will show flexibility in enforcing the rule, taking into account 
challenges that carriers may face in complying with the rule, so long 
as carriers are making satisfactory progress toward compliance and are 
making a good faith effort to comply with the rule to the extent of 
their current ability. CBP will also provide guidance on the new 
requirements and endeavor to conduct outreach to interested parties in 
order to facilitate a smooth transition to the new requirements.
4. In-Bond Shipments Between the United States and Canada
    Comment: The United States and Canada should harmonize the Canadian 
and U.S. rules on in-transit shipments: Canada could adopt the U.S. 
approach and require full commercial information, effectively 
terminating in-transit movements in both countries; or CBP could revise 
its position on the requirement for full commercial information and 
harmonize with the current Canadian rules which would restore in-
transit shipments through the United States.
    CBP Response: The NPRM did not address this issue, and this comment 
is beyond the scope of this rulemaking.

B. Electronic Filing and Processing of In-Bonds

1. Filing the In-Bond Application
    Comment: Many commenters requested further information on the 
filing process, the systems that will be used, how to file an in-bond 
application, what functions will be available and how the different 
systems will work for the various modes of transportation. Some 
commenters wanted to know how CBP will advise the trade about CBP-
approved systems.
    CBP Response: Under this rule, an electronic in-bond application is 
required for in-bond merchandise transported by ocean, rail and truck. 
The methods available to submit an in-bond application are the 
Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) or QP/WP. QP/WP is an ABI hosted 
in-bond system that allows all parties, carriers and non-carriers, to 
submit electronic in-bond applications directly to CBP, as well as 
report their arrival and export. The ``QP'' half is the application 
function, the ``WP'' half is the arrival/export function. ACE can be 
used to file the in-bond application in conjunction with advance or 
arriving manifest information. For in-bond merchandise transported by 
air, carriers can file the in-bond application also using ACE or QP/WP.
    For reference purposes, the table below lists the EDI systems used 
for filing in-bond applications for the various modes of transportation 
and provides links to the Web sites that contain the relevant filing 
instructions or implementation guides. CBP will promptly inform the 
public of new CBP approved systems via CBP's Web site and regular 
communication systems.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Mode of transportation                  CBP EDI system              In-bond application procedures
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ocean...................................  ACE........................  The in-bond application for cargo
                                                                        arriving by vessel may be filed as part
                                                                        of the arriving ocean manifest or as a
                                                                        subsequent/supplemental filing. Filing
                                                                        instructions are available on the ACE
                                                                        Web site at: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/ace/ocean-manifest.
Rail....................................  ACE........................  The in-bond application for cargo
                                                                        arriving by rail may be filed as part of
                                                                        the arriving rail manifest or as a
                                                                        subsequent/supplemental filing. Filing
                                                                        instructions are available on the ACE
                                                                        Web site at: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/ace/rail-manifest.
Truck...................................  ACE........................  The in-bond application for cargo
                                                                        arriving by truck may be filed as part
                                                                        of the arriving truck manifest. Filing
                                                                        instructions are available on the ACE
                                                                        Web site at: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/ace/truck-manifest/edi/message/electronic-truck-manifest.
Air.....................................  ACE........................  The in-bond application for cargo
                                                                        arriving by air may be filed as part of
                                                                        the arriving air manifest or as a
                                                                        subsequent/supplemental filing. Filing
                                                                        instructions are available on the ACE
                                                                        Web site at: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/ace/air-manifest.

[[Page 45371]]

 
Ocean, Rail, Truck, and Air.............  Automated Broker Interface   The automated broker interface (ABI) for
                                           (ABI).                       in-bond entries, known as QP/WP, allows
                                                                        in-bond entries filed for a particular
                                                                        shipment to be associated with arriving
                                                                        manifests or subsequent/supplemental in-
                                                                        bond entries filed for merchandise
                                                                        arriving by any mode. In-bond entries
                                                                        are associated with the arriving
                                                                        manifest by using the Standard Carrier
                                                                        Alpha Code (SCAC) in addition to a
                                                                        unique number to identify the bill of
                                                                        lading. This process covers cargo
                                                                        arriving by ocean, rail, truck, and air,
                                                                        as well as bonded warehouse withdrawals,
                                                                        foreign trade zone movements, pipeline
                                                                        arrivals, etc. Data messages are found
                                                                        in the ACE implementation guides located
                                                                        at: https://www.cbp.gov/document/guidance/bond bond.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Comment: CBP needs to explain the requirements and procedures for 
ACE as they may apply to the in-bond process from now until such time 
as all ACE modules are fully developed and implemented.
    CBP Response: Information regarding the requirements and procedures 
for ACE as they may apply to the in-bond process is available on the 
CBP Web site at the links listed in the table above. Additionally, CBP 
will issue additional guidance on the ACE requirements and procedures 
as ACE modules are developed and deployed. Additional information on 
messages (e.g. arrival, exportation, amendments and diversions) for in-
bond entries using the appropriate data interfaces can be found in the 
following implementation guides: ACE: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/ace. 
Air: AMS https://www.cbp.gov/site-page/camir-air-chapters.
    Comment: Will the ACE Secure Data Portal (``Portal'') be a viable 
option for those carriers that do not have EDI capabilities, elect to 
utilize the ACE Portal as opposed to EDI, or utilize both technologies 
depending on the situation? Will any function available to EDI users 
also be available to users of the ACE Secure Data Portal? Will the ACE 
Portal be available to use for diversion requests?
    CBP Response: The ACE Portal does not provide any in-bond 
functionality and there are no plans to use it for in-bond transactions 
in the future.
    Comment: Bonded carriers will have to electronically report the 
arrival and exportation of in-bond merchandise in separate CBP-approved 
systems (Air AMS for air, ACE for ground, ocean and rail). CBP should 
design its systems so that the arrival and departure messages are 
communicated between the various systems that have to be used by 
carriers. This will provide greater visibility and reduce redundancy 
for in-bond shipments that are transported by air and other modes of 
transportation. CBP should automate the arrival and export of 
electronic in-bond shipments regardless of the system used to initiate 
the in-bond shipment.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that messaging between the systems for in-
bond transactions would greatly facilitate the processing of in-bond 
transactions. This functionality is now available through Air ACE.
    Comment: CBP should expand the availability of the Document Imaging 
System to motor carriers in order to eliminate the use of paper.
    CBP Response: There is no need to use the Document Imaging System 
(DIS) for the processing of in-bond shipments by truck. CBP is 
discontinuing the use of the CBP Form 7512 for in-bond shipments 
transported by truck. Manifest information must be filed using an 
approved Electronic Data Interchange method.
    Comment: CBP should create a web-based technology to allow the 
broadest level of compliance by the trade. A web-based portal would 
allow CBP to receive real time in-bond information. CBP must consider 
the development of a web-based portal where the bonded carrier, FTZ 
operator or authorized agent can electronically request the status of 
the in-bond movement. This web-based tool should be used across all 
modes. A web-based portal would be ideal and would help to serve CBP's 
objective to maximize the automation of in-bonds with minimum impact to 
the trade.
    CBP Response: CBP is using its current systems to implement the new 
in-bond requirements and is not creating web-based technology or using 
a web-based portal for the processing of in-bond transactions beyond 
what it has already developed within ACE, at this time.
    Comment: Current functionality does not allow for the filing of an 
electronic in-bond application without access to QP and QP requires ABI 
connectivity which carriers do not currently need to access during 
their normal business operations.
    CBP Response: Although the commenter is correct that in order to 
file an in-bond application using QP, the filer must have ABI 
connectivity, an in-bond applicant can also use ACE when the in-bond 
application is filed as part of the advance or arriving manifest. When 
filing an in-bond application using QP, the in-bond application is 
filed as a stand-alone filing that will be reported on the manifest 
when all the data has been transmitted.
    Comment: Will there be a stand-alone in-bond system available 
within ACE that is not linked to the manifest record of the original 
importation?
    CBP Response: In order to facilitate processing of in-bond 
shipments and to reduce redundant filing requirements, CBP has designed 
the in-bond systems so that they are linked to the manifest record. 
There will not be a stand-alone in-bond system within ACE that is not 
linked to the manifest record of the original importation.
    Comment: How will responses to diversion requests be transmitted to 
the carrier? How long will it take for CBP to respond to the diversion 
request?
    CBP Response: The carrier will submit the diversion request using a 
ACE EDI or a QP/WP message. CBP's response will be immediate. CBP's 
disposition of the diversion request will be automated so that the 
carrier will receive authorization for, or denial of, the diversion 
immediately. The updating of the destination port code in the system 
will constitute approval of the diversion request. If the destination 
port code is rejected, that will constitute a denial of the diversion 
request.
    Comment: Will the in-bond application be fully paperless, meaning 
that there will be no requirement to file hard copies at the 
origination port for authorization? Some origination ports currently 
require that the in-bond documentation be validated through the use of 
perforation machines (e.g., Los Angeles).
    CBP Response: When this rule is effective, the in-bond process for 
in-bond merchandise transported by ocean, rail, or truck, will be fully 
paperless. It is expected that air will eventually be fully paperless 
as well, but CBP would propose that through a separate rulemaking.
    Comment: With regard to an in-bond application consisting of a 
transportation entry and manifest, the manifest or its electronic 
equivalent should only be required at the origination port of entry 
when the merchandise is first imported into the

[[Page 45372]]

United States. Subsequent in-bond applications for the same merchandise 
should require only a transportation entry.
    CBP Response: ACE links all phases of the in-bond movement. When a 
subsequent in-bond application is filed, the first movement is closed 
and the second is initiated. The system will require the previous in-
bond number, and will then link the two in-bond movements. The manifest 
information will not have to be submitted a second time.
2. Elimination of the CBP Form 7512
    Comment: Some commenters stated that they support eliminating the 
paper in-bond application (CBP Form 7512) and requiring carriers to 
file electronically. Carriers already file in-bond entries 
electronically, so electronic filing will not impose new burdens. It 
will, however, provide CBP with real time information on goods in 
transit and allow for easy reconciliation of shipments as goods are 
arrived and entered at another U.S. port or exported. The Automated 
Commercial System (ACS) currently allows for electronic in-bond filing 
now, but does not collect all the information CBP needs. These 
commenters support the proposal to utilize the increasingly functional 
ACE for this purpose. Because shippers are already familiar with ACE, 
this should not cause problems for them and it will increase 
efficiency.
    CBP Response: CBP appreciates the positive feedback and agrees that 
changing the in-bond process from a paper to an electronic process will 
increase efficiency, allow for easier reconciliation for carriers, and 
facilitate the collection of information by CBP without further 
burdening the trade.
    Comment: Some commenters, who agree that the in-bond application 
(the filing) should be electronically submitted to CBP, stated that the 
CBP Form 7512 should not be completely eliminated. The common trade 
practice is to maintain a hard-copy of the actual CBP Form 7512 which 
is used as an attachment to the bill of lading to properly identify the 
shipment as an in-bond shipment. It accompanies the shipment as it 
moves from trucking terminal to trucking terminal. Eliminating the CBP 
Form 7512 form will require many carriers to redesign their internal 
systems at great expense.
    CBP Response: Many carriers are already filing in-bonds 
electronically and are not using a paper CBP Form 7512. While there are 
some carriers that will have to revise their business practices as a 
result of CBP's efforts to modernize the in-bond process, CBP does not 
plan to maintain a two tiered in-bond system with both electronic 
filing and paper filing in order to accommodate those carriers that 
currently use the CBP Form 7512 for tracking purposes. If, for their 
own use for internal tracking purposes, carriers prefer a hard-copy 
document to accompany the shipment, carriers can choose to create a 
form with the same information as the CBP Form 7512 or print a hard-
copy of the electronic in-bond application.
    Comment: Many bonded carriers are not automated and rely upon the 
CBP Form 7512 as their control document. Unless CBP is prepared to 
mandate that bonded carriers become AMS certified, the CBP Form 7512 
will continue to be needed.
    CBP Response: CBP is requiring automated filing of in-bond entries. 
How bonded carriers manage their own internal controls is up to each 
bonded carrier.
3. Information Required
    Comment: The current flow of commercial information is not 
structured in such a way that all of the new in-bond information 
requirements would be readily available. CBP should work with the 
various sectors of the trade community in identifying what information 
is truly necessary, and in developing a phased-in compliance schedule 
that would afford business the time to adjust its procedures to the new 
regime. CBP's program for implementation of the ISF requirements is a 
good model for phased-in compliance.
    CBP Response: CBP worked closely with the various sectors of the 
trade community before publishing the NPRM regarding the general 
changes to the in-bond system that were being considered. CBP received 
and took into account extensive feedback from the trade community in 
the formulation of the NPRM. Moreover, as a result of the comments CBP 
received in response to the NPRM regarding the required information on 
the in-bond application, CBP is making several changes regarding these 
requirements so that they are less burdensome but still provide CBP 
with the necessary information. The rule will have a 60-day delayed 
effective date to enable the trade to make required adjustments to 
comply with the rule. CBP is also providing a 90-day flexible 
enforcement period similar to that used for implementation of the ISF 
requirements that will start from the effective date of this rule. 
Additionally, CBP will work closely with the trade to resolve 
compliance issues that the trade might experience as a result of this 
rule.
    Comment: The list of proposed changes in the NPRM includes a 
statement that an in-bond application must be filed for each conveyance 
transporting the shipment. However, this requirement is absent from the 
proposed regulatory language. Further guidance should be given 
regarding the requirement to file an in-bond for each conveyance.
    CBP Response: The statement in the list of proposed changes of the 
NPRM that an in-bond application must be filed for each conveyance was 
incorrect. A separate in-bond will not be required for each conveyance. 
One in-bond application can cover merchandise that is transported by 
multiple conveyances.
    Comment: Some carriers move in-bond merchandise via centralized 
hubs wherein in-bond merchandise is transported to a hub and 
consolidated in a new container before being transported to the port of 
exportation. If an in-bond shipment is moved in this manner, will one 
T&E application covering the entire movement of the in-bond merchandise 
be acceptable?
    CBP Response: Only one T&E in-bond application is necessary to move 
an in-bond shipment from the origination port to the port of 
exportation. In-bond merchandise can be moved from one container to 
another container in a centralized hub, if the sealing procedures in 
Sec.  18.4 are followed. However, multiple in-bond shipments from 
different origination ports cannot be entered under a single T&E and 
consolidated in a centralized hub.
4. Updating and Amending the In-Bond Record
    Comment: Will CBP allow all data elements to be amended within the 
in-bond record or will there be restrictions? CBP must provide guidance 
with respect to which elements can be amended.
    CBP Response: Prior to departure from the originating port, all 
data elements related to the in-bond may be updated or amended. After 
departure (during transit), the in-bond data may not be updated or 
amended, except for the quantity, destination, and seal numbers. If the 
reported quantity is not correct or if it changes, the in-bond record 
must be updated. Updating the quantity does not relieve the initial 
bonded carrier from liability for any shortages based on the quantity 
originally reported in the in-bond application. If the seal number is 
not known when the in-bond application is filed, the in-bond record 
must be updated with the seal number within

[[Page 45373]]

two business days. It is also necessary to update the in-bond record 
with notice and proof of export and with information regarding divided 
shipments at the port of exportation.
    Comment: Will other parties be allowed to amend the in-bond record 
or does the amendment have to be made by the original in-bond filer? 
CBP needs to define what is considered ``permission.'' The filer is not 
the appropriate party to grant permission to amend the official record 
and this authorization should be obtained from the owner of the 
commercial information since that is the true party in interest. 
Guidance should be provided indicating the appropriate method of 
notification or permission to both CBP and other parties who are 
authorized to make changes.
    CBP Response: Any party that files an in-bond application as 
provided in proposed Sec.  18.1(c) can amend the in-bond record. This 
may be the carrier or agent that is authorized by the carrier to 
obligate the carrier's bond and that brings the merchandise to the 
origination port; the carrier, or authorized agent of the carrier that 
accepts the merchandise under the carrier's bond; or any person who has 
a sufficient interest in the merchandise as shown by the bill of 
lading, manifest or other document. To provide additional clarity, CBP 
is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(h) to eliminate the requirement that 
the party updating or amending the in-bond record receive 
``permission'' from the ``filer'' and requiring instead that the party 
that is updating or amending the in-bond application obtain the 
``authorization'' of the ``party whose bond is obligated.'' CBP is 
requiring ``authorization'' from the party whose bond is obligated, as 
opposed to the filer because the party whose bond is obligated bears 
the responsibility for ensuring the proper movement of the merchandise.
    Comment: CBP should explain how the amending and updating of the 
in-bond record will work (process, time limits for amending, etc.).
    CBP Response: The in-bond record can be updated and amended by 
entering the new information in the CBP approved electronic system. The 
system will automatically update the in-bond record, barring any system 
edits in place prohibiting the update. CBP will provide additional 
procedures for amending and updating the in-bond record as necessary, 
using its normal trade outreach and by posting the information on the 
CBP Web site. CBP is also changing proposed Sec.  18.1(h) in the final 
rule to specify a timeframe for amending the in-bond record. That 
timeframe is ``within two business days of the event that requires 
amendment.''
5. Who May File
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.1(c)(3) stating that a transportation 
entry may be filed by ``[a]ny person who has a sufficient interest in 
the merchandise as shown by the bill of lading or manifest, a 
certificate of the importing carrier, or by any other document 
satisfactory to CBP'' is an overly broad grant of authority. CBP should 
limit the term ``sufficient interest'' to those persons with a property 
right in the merchandise or those persons who have been properly 
authorized by the owner of the goods. The right to file an in-bond 
application should be further restricted to the originating bonded 
carrier or a licensed customs broker. CBP should identify examples of 
such ``other documents'' that will be acceptable to CBP to include a 
properly executed power of attorney, a letter of authorization, etc. 
Alternatively, the term ``other documents'' should be deleted because 
it is unnecessary.
    CBP Response: The quoted language in proposed Sec.  18.1(c)(3) is 
not new. It is derived from Sec.  18.11(b) of the existing regulations 
which similarly allows a person who has sufficient interest in the 
merchandise as shown by the bill of lading or manifest, a certificate 
of the importing carrier, or by any other document satisfactory to CBP 
to transport merchandise in-bond. CBP has not experienced problems with 
parties without sufficient interest transporting merchandise in-bond 
and prefers to maintain the existing standard to facilitate trade. With 
regard to the documents that are acceptable to demonstrate sufficient 
interest, CBP believes it should provide the trade with some 
flexibility to present documentation to demonstrate that a party has 
sufficient interest in the merchandise.
    Comment: As filing of the in-bond is often made by an authorized 
agent of a party with sufficient interest, the proposed language in 
Sec.  18.1(c)(3) should be updated to read, ``[a]ny person, or the 
authorized agent of any person with sufficient interest in the 
merchandise, as shown by the bill of lading or manifest, a certificate 
of the importing carrier, or by any other document satisfactory to 
CBP.''
    CBP Response: CBP agrees. CBP is modifying the regulatory text in 
Sec.  18.1(c)(3) to allow the authorized agent of any person who has a 
sufficient interest in the merchandise to file the in-bond application.
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.1(c)(1) refers to a transportation entry 
made by ``the carrier that brings the merchandise to the origination 
port.'' CBP should modify this to read: ``the carrier, or authorized 
agent of the carrier, that brings the merchandise to the origination 
port.'' Proposed Sec.  18.1(c)(2) refers to a transportation entry made 
by ``the carrier that is to accept the merchandise under its bond or a 
carnet for transportation to the port of destination or port of 
exportation;'' CBP should modify this provision to read ``the carrier, 
or authorized agent of the carrier, that is to accept the merchandise 
under its bond or a carnet for transportation to the port of 
destination or port of exportation;''
    CBP Response: CBP agrees and is changing proposed Sec. Sec.  
18.1(c)(1) and (c)(2) to include the phrase ``or authorized agent of 
the carrier.''
    Comment: The referenced ``certificate of the importing carrier'' is 
not defined. This reference is in addition to a person having an 
interest in the shipment as shown by the bill of lading or manifest, so 
it is vague and confusing to refer to an undefined ``certificate.'' CBP 
should delete this reference as it may be unnecessary, or define what 
may constitute an acceptable certificate.
    CBP Response: The provision allowing for the use of a ``certificate 
from the importing carrier'' in proposed Sec.  18.1(c)(3) is contained 
in the existing regulations in Sec.  18.11(b). A power of attorney or 
letter of authorization would constitute an acceptable certificate. CBP 
will not establish a specific definition of what constitutes an 
acceptable certificate, but will accept a document or electronic 
request from the importing carrier that authorizes another party to 
file an in-bond application.
    Comment: CBP should require the party obligating the bond to 
provide all shipment information to the carrier when requested for 
investigation and audit purposes.
    CBP Response: CBP will not require third parties to provide 
shipment information to the carrier. This is a matter to be resolved 
contractually between carriers and those parties with whom they do 
business. However, as provided in 19 U.S.C. 1508(a)(1)(B) and 19 CFR 
163.2, persons who knowingly cause the transportation of merchandise 
carried or held under bond are responsible for maintaining the 
appropriate in-bond records, which must be supplied to CBP upon 
request.
6. Licensed Customs Brokers
    Comment: Only a licensed customs broker should be able to file the 
in-bond application; bonded carriers should only be able to file in 
limited cases when they simply file data without

[[Page 45374]]

exercising discretion. The classification of merchandise, even at the 
six-digit level, and determining the ``admissibility of merchandise'' 
is customs business and should be done only by a licensed customs 
broker. Customs brokers have the knowledge and experience to identify 
prohibited and restricted merchandise and will more accurately identify 
whether merchandise is subject to a rule, regulation, law, standard or 
ban relating to health, safety or conservation.
    CBP Response: An entry for transportation in bond is an excepted 
activity pursuant to 19 CFR 111.2(a)(2)(iv) for which a customs 
broker's license is not required. See 19 CFR 111.2(a)(2)(iv). Moreover, 
customs business does not involve the mere electronic transmission of 
data received for transmission to CBP, but does involve classification 
for entry purposes. See 19 CFR 111.1. The six-digit HTSUS number 
required on the in-bond application is necessary to ensure cargo safety 
and security and not to determine merchandise entry procedures that 
fall within the scope of customs business. This is in contrast to a 10-
digit HTSUS number which does involve classification for entry 
purposes. Although the proposed rule does require more information to 
be provided than in the past, this information is generally available 
to the carrier and does not require the expertise of a customs broker 
and does not require making admissibility determinations. Moreover, as 
discussed in Section I.B.3., Description of the Merchandise, and 
Section II.C., New Information Requirements for In-Bond Shipments, CBP 
is requiring much less information about the in-bond merchandise on the 
in-bond application than was proposed. For example, CBP is eliminating 
the requirement in proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(ii) for carriers to 
provide the rule, regulation, law, standard or ban relating to health, 
safety or conservation enforced by CBP or another government agency 
that is applicable to the in-bond merchandise. This, and other changes 
relating to the description of the merchandise, will lessen the burden 
on carriers and ensure that admissibility determinations are not 
required in order to file an in-bond application.
    Comment: The bonded carrier should only be allowed to file the in-
bond application when it does not have to make decisions regarding the 
classification or whether merchandise is restricted, prohibited, or 
subject to a rule, regulation, law, standard or ban relating to health, 
safety or conservation. The bonded carrier should be allowed to file 
the in-bond application only when it has received written documentation 
from a party that (1) has the right to make a consumption entry, (2) 
has an active continuous customs importer bond, (3) is required to 
exercise reasonable care in ascertaining and proving all of the 
required data elements to the bonded carrier, and (4) is responsible 
for liquidated damages on its continuous customs bond and/or penalties 
under 19 U.S.C. 1592 for false, inaccurate or incomplete information.
    CBP Response: CBP will not restrict who can file an in-bond 
application in the manner proposed in this comment.
7. Unauthorized Use of a Bond
    Comment: Several commenters raised concerns related to a bonded 
party's ability to restrict usage of its bond by other parties and to 
monitor the obligations made to its bond. These commenters said that 
the bonded party should be able to prohibit the obligation of its bond 
by third parties. In addition, these commenters indicated that the 
bonded party should be able to see, within the new proposed automated 
paperless environment, all in-bond movements that obligate its 
custodial bond. Without such functionality in the electronic in-bond 
system, the bonded party may be exposed to fraudulent activity and 
liquidated damages assessed by CBP when a carrier files an in-bond 
application without authorization from the bonded party.
    CBP Response: We agree that the bonded carrier should be able to 
look into the in-bond record and restrict usage of its bond by other 
parties. In ACE and QP/WP, bonded parties can prevent the unauthorized 
use of their bond by restricting use of their bond by other parties and 
by setting conditions on the use of their bond. These in-bond systems 
are designed to allow an approved bonded carrier that has a CBP-
approved ACE account to allow restricted or unrestricted use of its 
bonds. If the bonded carrier's account is unrestricted, any other party 
may open an in-bond application using the bonded carrier's account 
number. If the bonded carrier restricts the usage of the bond account 
number, that carrier can log into its account and select the other 
parties that are authorized to obligate its bond. If the bonded carrier 
selects parties that are authorized, all other parties will be 
unauthorized and any attempt to use the bond by an unauthorized user 
will be rejected. In addition, the bonded party will receive 
notifications when the in-bond record is amended or updated if the in-
bond filer designates the bonded party as a Secondary Notify Party 
(SNP) in ACE.
    A party who moves bonded merchandise without authorization, either 
as a non-bonded carrier holding itself out as a bonded carrier or as a 
non-bonded carrier using the identity/bond information of a bonded 
carrier without the latter's authorization, may be subject to a penalty 
pursuant to 19 U.S.C. 1595a(b) for violation of 19 U.S.C. 1551, 19 CFR 
18.1 and 19 CFR 112.12, or 19 U.S.C. 1592.
8. Procedures
    Comment: Under current electronic in-bond processing in AMS, it is 
possible for an ocean carrier's taxpayer identification (IRS) number to 
be used by a third party to file an in-bond movement without the 
carrier's knowledge. While the ACE M1 functionality will allow ocean 
carriers to better control which parties are authorized to use the 
carrier's IRS number to file an in-bond application, carriers need to 
be able to know when their bonds are used by a third party so that the 
carrier can close any in-bond applications filed against the carrier's 
IRS number that the third party filer fails to close.
    To enable ocean carriers to monitor when their IRS numbers are used 
to file in-bonds, CBP should modify the EDI in-bond message set for M1 
to include two additional pieces of information: (1) The SCAC of the 
bonded party, and (2) the SCAC or filer code of the party that filed 
the initial in-bond application.
    CBP should also develop a mechanism within ACE M1 that would allow 
an ocean carrier to electronically close an in-bond that the in-bond 
filer created in the Automated Broker Interface (ABI) using the ocean 
carrier's IRS number but then never closed in ABI. This would enable 
ocean carriers, none of whom use ABI (a broker filing system) to use 
ACE M1 to close in-bonds cut against the carrier's IRS number.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that more accurate information should be 
provided to bonded parties regarding the use of their bond and thanks 
the commenter for these suggestions. Now that the ACE eManifest Rail 
and Sea (M1) has been successfully deployed, enhancements such as this 
will be considered and prioritized based on the needs of the trade and 
CBP. M1 currently allows any EDI filer (ABI or carrier) to provide 
updates on in-bond transactions including arrivals and exports. CBP 
encourages the party with the most accurate information to provide 
those updates.

[[Page 45375]]

9. Change of Foreign Destination
    Comment: CBP should clarify the difference between proposed Sec.  
18.23 requiring the carrier to notify CBP of a change in foreign 
destination of an in-bond shipment and the requirement in proposed 
Sec.  18.5 that carriers obtain authorization from CBP for diversion of 
an in-bond shipment.
    CBP Response: Section 18.5 requires the filer of the in-bond 
application to submit a request to divert merchandise via a CBP-
approved EDI system. A diversion occurs when the U.S. port for which 
the in-bond merchandise is destined is changed and the merchandise is 
shipped to a different port. Section 18.1(h) requires the carrier to 
update information included in the original in-bond application, such 
as the first foreign port, when there are changes. Section 18.23 
concerns the requirement to update information in the in-bond 
application as it applies to TE and IT shipments. CBP is adding 
language to Sec.  18.23 to make this clearer.
New Information Requirements for In-Bond Shipments
10. New Information Requirements Generally
    Comment: Many commenters expressed concern that the new information 
requirements of the in-bond application are too burdensome.
    CBP Response: The requirements proposed in the NPRM, when 
considered as a whole, potentially would require more information from 
carriers. Accordingly, CBP is making several changes to the proposed 
regulations in response to these comments. First, CBP is removing the 
requirement in proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(ii) that if the party 
submitting the in-bond application knows that the merchandise is 
subject to a rule, regulation, law, standard or ban relating to health, 
safety or conservation, the filer must provide the rule, regulation, 
law, standard or ban to which the merchandise is subject as well as the 
government agency responsible for enforcing the rule, regulation, law, 
standard, or ban. In its place, CBP is requiring that merchandise 
subject to detention or supervision by a U.S. government agency be 
described with sufficient accuracy to enable the agency concerned to 
determine the contents of the shipment. This is a requirement in 
existing Sec.  18.11(e). Second, CBP is removing the requirement in 
proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(iii) that the in-bond filer identify 
prohibited or restricted merchandise. Third, CBP is removing the 
requirement in proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(iv) to provide additional 
information for all in-bond shipments of textiles and textile products. 
Fourth, CBP is making optional the requirement in proposed Sec.  
18.1(d)(1)(v) that the filer of the in-bond application must provide 
information regarding merchandise for which the U.S. Government, 
foreign government or other issuing authority has issued a visa, 
permit, license, or other similar number or identifying information. In 
lieu of the above requirements and to ensure that CBP is still able to 
assess security and health and safety threats, CBP is changing proposed 
Sec.  18.1(l)(i) to require the six-digit HTSUS number on the in-bond 
application in all instances. The six-digit HTSUS number is one of the 
required data elements for all merchandise arriving by vessel on the 
Importer Security Filing (ISF).
11. Special Classes of Merchandise
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.20(a) prohibits the use of a 
transportation and exportation (T&E) entry, with no exceptions noted 
for several classes of merchandise as detailed at Sec.  18.1(l), namely 
(1) health, safety, and conservation; (2) plants and plant products; 
(3) narcotics and other prohibited articles; (4) non-narcotics; (5) 
explosives; and (6) livestock. This conflicts with proposed Sec.  
18.1(l), which allows a T&E entry to be filed if approved by the 
appropriate governmental agency, e.g., explosives as regulated by ATF, 
DOT, and USCG. Additionally, if a T&E entry may not be utilized for 
these specified commodities, two separate in-bond movements would be 
required to move the shipment through the United States to its final 
destination, i.e., an Immediate Transportation (IT) to the port of 
exportation and a separate Immediate Exportation (IE) at the port of 
destination. This would create an unnecessary increase in work for both 
CBP and affected carriers and filers.
    CBP Response: Proposed Sec.  18.20(a) does not prohibit the use of 
T&E entries for the named classes of merchandise in all cases. It 
specifically allows for T&E entries, subject to the provision of Sec.  
18.1(l). There is no conflict between the two provisions. While 
proposed Sec.  18.1(l) imposes restrictions on the named classes of 
merchandise, it does not prohibit the use of T&E entries. It merely 
requires authorization from the appropriate government agency to ship 
these classes of merchandise under a T&E entry. Moreover, these are not 
new restrictions on T&E entries. Existing Sec.  18.21 provides for 
these same restrictions on T&E entries. This rule makes these 
restrictions applicable to all in-bond entries by moving them to Sec.  
18.1(l).
    Comment: CBP should amend proposed Sec.  12.11 to allow plant or 
plant product shipments subject to Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service/Plant Protection and Quarantine Programs (APHIS/PPQ) permit 
conditions to be shipped from the port of first arrival to another port 
for proper inspection at an APHIS/PPQ facility, without an in-bond 
application if all CBP requirements have been met.
    CBP Response: CBP disagrees. Until such time as the plant or plant 
product has been inspected or treated by APHIS/PPQ, the merchandise 
must remain under CBP bond, which insures compliance with APHIS/PPQ 
requirements.
12. Quantity
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(vi) states that ``the quantity 
of the merchandise to be transported to the smallest piece count'' must 
be provided. This is a confusing standard and clarification should be 
provided as to whether this means that the quantity will be reported at 
the smallest external packaging unit or something different, such as 
the smallest piece count. CBP should use the ``smallest exterior 
packing unit'' as the standard for providing the quantity of the 
merchandise. This is a workable standard and the data is readily 
available and verifiable to the carrier. ``The smallest piece count'' 
standard would be burdensome as manifests and bills of lading normally 
do not contain this information and verification may be difficult.
    CBP Response: CBP concurs and is changing proposed Sec.  
18.1(d)(1)(vi) to require the reporting of the quantity using the 
``smallest exterior packing unit'' standard. This will enable carriers 
to verify the quantity of the goods they are transporting and ensure 
that there is no shortage.
    Comment: CBP should modify proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(vi) to require 
that the quantity of merchandise to be transported be reported in the 
in-bond application as the quantity used in the bill of lading and or 
manifest. This will ensure consistency in reporting between the 
application filer and CBP as well as amongst all trading partners 
involved in the transportation movement of the in-bond shipment.
    CBP Response: CBP disagrees. The quantity of merchandise used in 
the bill of lading or the manifest may not reflect the actual quantity, 
as required in Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(iv). CBP needs to ensure the entire 
shipment is accounted for at the destination port or port of 
exportation.

[[Page 45376]]

Proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(vi) requires the quantity of merchandise to 
be transported in-bond to be reported and will specify how that 
quantity is to be reported. As discussed in the prior comment response, 
the required quantity standard will be the smallest exterior packing 
unit.
    Comment: CBP should remove proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(4), which 
requires the initial bonded carrier to assert that there is no 
discrepancy between the quantity of the goods received from the 
importing carrier and the quantity of goods delivered to the in-bond 
carrier for transportation in-bond. Quantity information is already 
required under proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(vi) and the initial bonded 
carrier cannot make the assertion in good faith without independently 
verifying the quantities prior to importation which is impractical and 
costly. Alternatively, CBP should change proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(4) to 
provide that by submission of an in-bond application, the initial 
bonded carrier asserts that there is no ``known discrepancy'' between 
the quantity received from the initial carrier and quantity delivered 
to the in-bond carrier, unless the arriving carrier and the in-bond 
carrier are the same, in which case the provision does not apply.
    CBP Response: Proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(4) does not impose new 
requirements on bonded carriers. Under Sec.  18.8 of the current 
regulations, if an in-bond shipment arrives at the destination port and 
the quantity of goods that arrives is less than the quantity 
manifested, the bonded carrier is liable for the shortage. This rule 
does not change that requirement. However, CBP has concluded that 
proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(4) is unnecessary as it is covered in Sec.  
18.8. Therefore, CBP is removing this provision.
    Comment: Bonded carriers need to be able to file manifest 
discrepancy reports after the in-bond shipment arrives at the port of 
destination. The discrepancy reports would reflect the quantity of good 
actually received by the in-bond carrier when the container is unloaded 
at the port of destination.
    CBP Response: CBP disagrees. CBP is not creating a new manifest 
discrepancy reporting system for in-bond shipments which would insulate 
carriers from liability for a shortage. Although carriers must use the 
procedure described in Sec.  18.1(h) to update the in-bond record to 
report any discrepancy in quantity of in-bond merchandise, the carrier 
is responsible for the quantity of goods reported in the in-bond 
application.
13. Location of the Merchandise
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.1(j) requires the reporting of the 
``[p]hysical location of the merchandise within the port.'' The term 
``physical location'' should be defined and CBP should provide 
additional detail as to the level of specificity required; e.g., the 
Facilities Information and Resources Management System (FIRMS) code if 
known, or dock location, pier, street, address, city, etc. FIRMS codes 
need to be established for border crossing locations where carriers do 
not have a physical presence.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that the proposed text is not clear and 
leaves room for error in providing the physical location of the 
merchandise. Therefore, CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(j) to 
require the reporting of the FIRMS code rather than a description of 
the physical location of the goods. FIRMS codes are used to identify a 
specific physical location. Locations, e.g., warehouses, with FIRMS 
codes that are used solely for the purposes of providing the location 
of in-bond merchandise are not required to be bonded facilities, unlike 
other locations with FIRMS codes. However, FIRMS code locations that 
are used solely for reporting the location of in-bond merchandise 
cannot be used for other purposes for which a bond is required, e.g., 
manipulation of the merchandise. If the merchandise is sitting on the 
dock, the FIRMS code of the terminal should be provided.
    Comment: Does the new rule allow truck carriers to use their 
terminal facilities as the arrival destination and use that location to 
report to CBP?
    CBP Response: Yes. However, if there is not an existing FIRMS code 
for the terminal facility the truck carrier company will need to obtain 
one.
    Comment: Will CBP be updating or changing the current FIRMS code 
process? CBP should centralize the process at headquarters, rather than 
have the ports responsible.
    CBP Response: CBP is not updating or changing the process for 
obtaining a FIRMS code. The current process is to obtain a FIRMS code 
at the local port. A member of the trade requests a FIRMS code via a 
letter to the port director on company letterhead. An Officer in the 
POE creates a FIRMS file in ACE for the requesting party and CBP mails 
the FIRMS code to the requesting party. However, CBP headquarters will 
continue to oversee the process.
    Comment: CBP should require the reporting of the FIRMS code of the 
bonded location ``at which the in-bond merchandise is arrived'' instead 
of the physical location of the in-bond merchandise within the port. 
For shipments that will be exported across a land border, CBP should 
accept an alternate location code if a FIRMS code does not exist for 
the location where the goods will be exported.
    CBP Response: CBP is requiring in Sec.  18.1(j) that the bonded 
carrier report the FIRMS code for the arrival of all in-bond 
merchandise at the destination port and port of exportation.
14. Destination
    Comment: The reporting of the ``ultimate destination'' is a new 
requirement and CBP should explain what ``ultimate destination'' means. 
The carrier that files the electronic in-bond application has no way to 
know the ``ultimate destination'' of a particular in-bond shipment. The 
carrier can only provide CBP with information about the final 
destination of the cargo movement under the carrier's contract of 
carriage with the shipper. The carrier does not know what the shipper 
does with the cargo after the carrier has delivered the cargo according 
to the contract of carriage. The proposed rule should be amended to 
clarify that for a carrier filing an in-bond application the final 
destination of the cargo movement under the carrier's contract of 
carriage with the shipper is acceptable.
    CBP Response: To address the comment above and avoid inconsistency 
with other export control laws and regulations, CBP is no longer using 
the term ``ultimate destination'' in Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(vi). CBP is 
making changes to Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(vi) to clarify that for IT 
shipments, the port of destination in the United States must be 
provided, and for T&E and IE shipments, the port of exportation and the 
first foreign port must be provided.
    Comment: Any requirements associated with the destination beyond 
the port code could significantly erode the confidentiality of 
sensitive customer information.
    CBP Response: CBP routinely considers commercial information on 
entry documents as confidential business information protected by the 
Trade Secrets Act, 18 U.S.C. 1905, and therefore subject to exemption 4 
of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) protecting trade secrets and 
commercial or financial information. CBP does not require businesses to 
designate that information as confidential. See 19 CFR 103.35. CBP 
would consider the destination of the in-bond merchandise to be 
confidential and privileged under exemption 4 of the FOIA and would not 
release this information.
    Comment: There is often a need to move in-bond jet fuel to airports 
that operate with international flights.

[[Page 45377]]

Current systems allow for the use of a multi-destination field. CBP 
should recognize the operational realities of the jet fuel and airline 
business and specifically address in the final rule that in-bond 
movements with multiple destinations may continue to be used.
    CBP Response: This rule will not specifically address multi-
destination fields currently used in some situations to move jet fuel 
in-bond. This is an operational issue. However, CBP is not planning to 
limit or stop the use of this practice at this time.

C. In-Transit Time

1. In-Transit Time Generally
    Comment: The proposed 30-day transit time is sufficient to arrive 
at the destination port. It is more than sufficient time for carriers 
to enter and exit the United States with Canadian domestic goods.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees with these comments, except with respect 
to in-bond shipments transported by barge, as addressed below.
2. In-Bond Shipments Transported by Barge
    Comment: The current 60-day in-transit time for in-bond shipments 
that travel by barge should be preserved. Barge delivery times 
frequently exceed 30 days. Industry data indicates that average barge 
transit times between 26 common origination and destination points for 
inland barge transportation routinely exceed the proposed 30-day in-
transit time. In addition to average transit times that may exceed 30 
days, barge in-transit times are also frequently impacted by other 
factors such as fog, icing, high water, low water, lock closure, 
maintenance, and congestion that further lengthen transit times beyond 
30 days.
    CBP Response: Due to the special circumstances noted above 
pertaining to travel by barge, CBP agrees that the proposed 30-day in-
transit time for in-bond shipments transported by barge is not adequate 
and is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(1) to allow for a 60-day in-
transit time for barge shipments.
3. Extension of In-Transit Time
    Comment: Requests for an extension of the 30-day in-transit time 
should be considered approved unless CBP denies the request. The 
process should be automated and extensions should be granted in 30-day 
timeframes. The process for requesting an extension should be explained 
in more detail.
    CBP Response: CBP disagrees that extensions should be automatically 
approved. CBP will consider on a case-by-case basis whether to grant an 
extension of the in-transit time period and if so, the length of the 
extension. CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(2) to clarify that 
the decision to extend the in-transit time period is within the 
discretion of CBP. CBP is also changing proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(2) to 
provide factors that may be considered in its decision, which include 
extraordinary circumstances beyond the control of the parties.
    With regard to automation, the functionality does not currently 
exist to accept and approve extensions electronically via electronic 
EDI. Accordingly, all requests for an extension must be made to the 
port director of the port of destination or port of exportation, as 
appropriate. See Sec.  18.1(i)(2).
    Comment: CBP should issue the denial of an extension request within 
24 hours of the request and provide a reason for the denial.
    CBP Response: CBP will consider each extension request on a case-
by-case basis and will endeavor to issue any denials within 24 hours of 
receiving the request. CBP will not provide the reason for denying an 
extension request since the request may be denied for law enforcement 
purposes.
    Comment: CBP should continue to take into account and provide 
extensions for rail cars that have been delayed due to rail cars being 
unavailable to transport in-bond merchandise or due to other transit 
issues. CBP should continue to provide reasonable relief from the 30-
day limit.
    CBP Response: CBP will consider requests for extensions on a case-
by-case basis.
    Comment: Can the request for an extension be made for all cargo 
covered on the bill of lading, or must the request for an extension be 
made for each individual in-bond entry?
    CBP Response: A request for an extension must be made for each 
individual in-bond entry. CBP will not grant a blanket extension for 
all shipments covered by a bill of lading.
    Comment: The proposed rule states CBP may extend the in-transit 
time if delays are caused due to the examination or inspection of the 
merchandise by CBP or another government agency. Because this issue can 
result in irregular deliveries due to no fault of the carrier, CBP 
should change ``may extend'' to ``will extend.'' The in-transit 
timeframe should be revised to account for the delay and recorded as 
part of the in-bond application record and communicated to the in-bond 
filer.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(1) should be 
changed to address this issue. The new text will state that when the 
merchandise is subject to examination or inspection by CBP or another 
government agency, the time for which the merchandise is held due to 
the examination or inspection will not be considered part of the in-
transit time. Because of this change, it is unnecessary to change ``may 
extend'' to ``will extend.''
    Comment: CBP should provide examples of circumstances in which CBP 
will grant an extension ``for some other reason.''
    CBP Response: In order to clarify proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(2), CBP is 
removing the phrase ``for some other reason.'' In its place, CBP is 
changing proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(2) to provide factors that may be 
considered in its decision to extend the in-transit time period. CBP 
will consider all requests for an extension on a case-by-case basis.
    Comment: Some in-bond shipments cannot be made within the mandatory 
in-transit time due to logistical issues that are beyond the control of 
the shipper. For example, a vessel shipment may contain 50 coils of 
steel, which would need to be divided into at least 25 truckloads. Due 
to truck shortages and bad weather it is not uncommon for shipments to 
take longer than the in-transit time for trucks of 30 days.
    CBP Response: CBP will take into account logistical issues such as 
the one described above when considering a request for an extension of 
the in-transit time.
4. Shortening of In-Transit Time
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(3) provides that CBP may shorten 
the in-transit time. CBP should clarify and explain why the in-transit 
time would ever need to be shortened once the application has been 
authorized and no holds have been placed on the shipment. CBP should 
provide more information and justification as to when this authority 
might be exercised so that the trade can more adequately comment.
    CBP Response: The in-transit time will only be shortened when 
required by another agency's transit requirements. The primary reason 
why CBP would shorten the in-transit time would be to comply with U.S. 
Department of Agriculture (USDA) statutory requirements related to 
merchandise moving on a USDA permit. Other government agencies may also 
require shortened transit periods.
    Comment: Does the proposal that ``CBP will provide notice of a CBP-
shortened in-transit time with the movement authorization,'' include

[[Page 45378]]

notification by other government agencies of shortened in-transit 
times? CBP needs to ensure that there are procedural protections for 
the importer and the carrier to avoid arbitrary and costly 
restrictions.
    CBP Response: The in-transit time will only be shortened in order 
to comply with another agency's transit requirements. CBP will provide 
notice to the carrier to facilitate compliance. To clarify this, CBP is 
changing proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(3) to provide that ``CBP will provide 
notice of a government-shortened in-transit time with the movement 
authorization.''
    Comment: The ``shortened in-transit time'' information should be 
transmitted as a distinct data element or disposition code that is sent 
to filers. This code will ensure that the carrier will be aware of the 
restriction, and the carrier may then examine the text explanation of 
the shortened time for the details of the restriction. Instructions 
from CBP that require the trade to take any action must not be included 
as a remark to formal status messages because free form messages may be 
mistyped by the initiator, truncated by the system, or misinterpreted 
by the recipient.
    CBP Response: CBP will communicate to the carrier via EDI when the 
in-transit time has been shortened. CBP agrees that the creation of a 
disposition code is a good idea and will endeavor to create a new 
disposition code for this purpose.
5. Start of In-Transit Time
    Comment: The current regulations begin the running of the 30-day 
in-transit time at the time the forwarding carrier receives the 
merchandise. In many seaports, it is not uncommon for containers to be 
delayed within a port terminal for myriad reasons, two to four days on 
average, before they are delivered to the forwarding carrier. Beginning 
the in-transit time from the time of the filing of the in-bond 
application does not take these routine delays into account. The 
language of existing Sec.  18.2(c)(2) that allows the forwarding 
carrier to report the date on which it received the merchandise at the 
port of arrival from the importing carrier should be retained.
    CBP Response: CBP has analyzed in-bond movements including 
intermodal movements and determined that beginning the in-transit time 
at the time of filing the application would not seriously impinge on 
the 30-day (60-day for barges) in-transit time to deliver the cargo, 
even, taking into account a 2- to 4-day delay at the port. Requiring 
the forwarding carrier to report when it receives the merchandise makes 
determining when the in-transit time begins more cumbersome, and makes 
the system dependent on a party whose bond may not be obligated. 
Extensions of the transit time can be requested in the event of a delay 
at the port.
    Comment: In the ocean environment, in-bond authorization may be 
provided up to 30 days prior to vessel arrival at the first U.S. 
seaport. Taking this into account, the 30-day transit time should not 
start until the conveyance has arrived at the first U.S. port and all 
government holds have been removed.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees. CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(1) 
to provide that the in-transit time will not begin until vessel arrival 
or CBP movement authorization, whichever is later.
    Comment: In-bond merchandise traveling through the United States 
and destined for Mexico often requires several days at the port of 
exportation on the United States-Mexico border for various legitimate 
reasons before the merchandise can be imported into Mexico. Generally, 
the merchandise is transported to the port of exportation by the 
originating bonded carrier. Next, a new in-bond application is filed 
and the merchandise and bond liability is transferred to a local bonded 
carrier for exportation to Mexico. Taking commercial realities of 
importing goods into Mexico into consideration, if the originating 
bonded carrier arrives at the port of exportation without a sufficient 
number of days remaining before the expiration of the 30-day maximum 
time period, it will be difficult to find a succeeding bonded carrier 
to accept liability for the merchandise knowing that delays are 
anticipated and there is high risk of not being able to export the 
merchandise timely. This will likely cause in-bond merchandise to have 
to enter a foreign trade zone or customs bonded warehouse to avoid 
liquidated damages for irregular delivery. Alternatively, Mexican 
importers may divert this business outside of the United States for 
direct shipment to a Mexican sea port, which would be devastating for 
the local bonded carriers in Laredo, Texas.
    CBP Response: CBP recognizes that there are many circumstances in 
which it may not be practicable to export in-bond merchandise within 15 
days of arrival at the port of exportation. However, shippers will be 
responsible for ensuring that basic logistical issues are resolved. In 
the scenario presented, the originating bonded carrier will have 30 
days in which to deliver the merchandise to the port of exportation, at 
which point the arrival must be reported within two business days. The 
reporting of the arrival of the merchandise at the destination port 
completes the in-bond movement for purposes of meeting the in-transit 
time requirements. The merchandise must then be exported within 15 
days. If the merchandise cannot be exported within 15 days after 
arrival, the original bonded carrier can file an immediate exportation 
entry. This will provide an additional 15 days in which to export the 
merchandise. The carrier can also request permission to retain the 
goods within the port limits for an additional 90 days pursuant to 
Sec.  18.24 or admit the merchandise into a FTZ, before the 15-day 
limit expires.
6. Procedures
    Comment: All parties involved in an in-bond shipment should be able 
to verify when the in-bond shipment was authorized for movement and 
whether they are delivering the merchandise within the required 
timeframe.
    CBP Response: Within ACE, the carrier filing the in-bond 
application has the ability to provide multiple Secondary Notify 
Parties (SNPs). SNPs receive the same status messages as the carrier. 
It is up to the parties involved in the transportation of the 
merchandise to ensure that the appropriate parties are designated as 
SNPs.
    Comment: Receipt of messages is a major issue for some non-vessel 
operating common carriers (NVOCCs). NVOCCs must be nominated by the 
vessel operating carrier (VOC) as a SNP in order to receive all status 
messages. Many VOCs have system constraints and can only accommodate 
one NVOCC per Master Bill of Lading even though AMS and ACE can 
accommodate more. An NVOCC automatically becomes a SNP when it creates 
an in-bond. However, it only receives status messages from the time it 
creates the in-bond.
    CBP Response: SNPs receive the same status messages as the carrier. 
CBP already provides the ability to provide multiple SNPs within ACE. 
It is the responsibility of the parties involved in the transportation 
of the merchandise to ensure that the appropriate parties are 
designated as SNPs.
7. Intermodal Transportation
    Comment: The reduction in in-transit times between ports from 60 
days to 30 days is insufficient for those shippers who are moving goods 
with a mix of intermodal transportation (rail, barge and truck) and it 
might be difficult to meet the new 30-day requirement in these 
situations. This is especially true for those using barge movements. 
CBP should consider either keeping the current 60-day requirement for 
barges or

[[Page 45379]]

providing an exemption similar to what has been granted for pipelines.
    CBP Response: As indicated in Section I.B.1., In-Transit Time for 
Shipments Transported by Barge, CBP is changing the proposed in-transit 
time for in-bond shipments transported by barge to 60 days. In this 
final rule, CBP is providing in Sec.  18.1(i) that if any portion of 
the movement involves the movement of goods on a barge, the 60-day 
transit time will apply.
    Comment: Which time period applies when there is a movement of 
petroleum products that involves the use of truck and pipeline? For 
instance, jet fuel could be moved in-bond via pipeline then transferred 
to a truck destined for an international airport. This movement could 
take significantly longer than 30 days. CBP should clarify whether the 
30-day transit time applies to the entire movement when part of the 
movement involves transportation via pipeline.
    CBP Response: The initial pipeline movement is an in-bond movement, 
but the duration of that transit time would not be included in the 30-
day transit time limitation. To clarify this, CBP is adding a sentence 
to proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(1) that expressly excludes pipeline shipments 
from the provisions of that section.
8. Report of Arrival
    Comment: CBP proposes to reduce the arrival notification timeframe 
for an in-bond from two working days to 24 hours. Due to the mandatory 
electronic submission of in-bonds and the ability for any party to 
generate an in-bond without proper notification to all parties, it will 
be nearly impossible for a manual data entry process to happen within 
24 hours when many in-bond shipments arrive over the weekend and 
holidays. CBP should retain the current 48-hour arrival timeframe or 
extend it to 72 hours to accommodate the various business models in the 
trade and lessen the cost of complying with the proposed rule.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that the 24-hour notification timeframe is 
too short. CBP is changing proposed Sec.  8.1(j) to require the report 
of arrival to be filed within two business days after arrival at the 
destination port.
    Comment: If CBP approval is required prior to removing the seal, 
this may impact the carrier's ability to timely report the arrival of 
the in-bond cargo.
    CBP Response: Except as provided for in Sec.  18.4, a sealed 
container cannot be opened prior to the reporting of the arrival. 
Pursuant to Sec.  18.4(c), if it becomes necessary to remove seals for 
good reason, a responsible agent of the carrier may remove the seals, 
supervise the transfer or handling of the merchandise and seal the 
conveyance, compartment, or container. CBP approval is not required. 
Once the arrival has been reported, the container can be opened and the 
in-bond merchandise removed.
    Comment: For rail movements there are several check points within 
the port of destination area and it can take up to three to four days 
before the shipment finally reaches the point of unloading for vessel 
exports. What will be the point at which the arrival must be 
transmitted?
    CBP Response: The arrival must be reported at the first point of 
arrival within the destination port.
    Comment: The impact of the arrival on the transit and general order 
clock is significant to zone operations. It is imperative for CBP to 
explain the ramifications of arrival on both the transit clock and the 
transfer of bond liability.
    CBP Response: The reporting of the arrival of the merchandise at 
the destination port completes the in-bond movement for purposes of 
meeting the in-transit time requirements. The arrival of the in-bond 
merchandise, however, does not transfer bond liability. The party whose 
bond is obligated is liable until the in-bond is closed out by the in-
bond merchandise being exported, entered for consumption, admitted into 
an FTZ, or entered through the filing of some other type of entry.
    Comment: Under the proposed rule, will the in-transit clock stop 
for an entire in-bond shipment when the first portion of an in-bond 
shipment arrives at the port of exportation or destination port?
    CBP Response: The arrival of a portion of shipment at the 
destination port will not stop the transit period for the remainder of 
the shipment that has not yet arrived at the port. For multiple 
container movements, the arrival will be performed at the equipment/
container level. This means that each equipment/container must arrive 
within 30 days and each equipment/container must be reported as arrived 
within two business days after its arrival.
9. General Order Merchandise
    Comment: Does the reporting of arrival pursuant to proposed Sec.  
18.1(j) stop the in-transit clock and begin the general order clock of 
15 days as provided in proposed Sec.  18.1(k)?
    CBP Response: No. Subsection 18.1(j) requires the report of arrival 
of any portion of a shipment after it arrives at the port. Only the 
arrival of the full shipment of in-bond merchandise at the destination 
port or the port of exportation, not the reporting of arrival, stops 
the in-transit time and begins the 15-day general order period.
    Comment: Reporting the arrival of the in-bond shipment at the 
destination port when the first portion of the shipment arrives and 
remaining portions have not arrived, creates a significant issue with 
the management of the general order clock. Allowing the clock to run on 
goods that may not have physically arrived creates a potential gap in 
the control of in-bond merchandise because merchandise that has 
``arrived'' may not be physically present.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that the general order clock should begin 
when the last portion of the in-bond shipment arrives. Therefore, CBP 
is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(k) to provide that the 15-day period 
for general order merchandise begins on the date of arrival ``of the 
entire in-bond shipment'' at the port of destination or port of 
exportation. When only a portion of a shipment arrives at the port of 
destination or port of exportation, the general order clock will 
generally not begin until the last portion of the shipment arrives. 
However, if part of a shipment does not arrive within the timeframe for 
completing the in-bond movement (30 days in most cases), the general 
order clock for the merchandise that has already arrived will start to 
run at the end of the applicable timeframe for completing the in-bond 
movement.
    Comment: CBP should clarify that the total proposed in-bond transit 
time from the time of in-bond application authorization to the time of 
entry at the port of destination or export at port of exportation is a 
total of 45 days unless an extension has been granted.
    CBP Response: The maximum in-transit time from the time of 
authorization of the in-bond application to arrival at the destination 
port is 30 days or 60 days for barges. Once the merchandise has 
arrived, the merchandise must either be entered or exported within 15 
days of arrival or it will be subject to General Order and required 
notifications must be provided. It is incorrect to think that CBP will 
combine the two periods.
    Comment: Reference to FTZ admission is omitted from the language 
regarding potential events that prevent goods from being sent to 
General Order. The language in proposed Sec.  18.1(k) should be revised 
to include FTZ admission, such as: ``Any merchandise covered by an in-
bond shipment (including carnets) that has arrived at the port of 
destination or the port of exportation must be entered, exported or 
admitted to a foreign-trade zone pursuant to this part within 15 days

[[Page 45380]]

from the date of arrival at the port of destination or port of 
exportation, or in the case of goods authorized for direct delivery 
destined to a foreign-trade zone, within 15 days of the arrival at the 
zone or subzone pursuant to Sec.  146.40(c)(3).''
    CBP Response: CBP concurs that admission into an FTZ should be 
included as a means to prevent merchandise from going into General 
Order and is changing proposed Sec.  18.1(k) accordingly. It is not 
necessary to include language regarding direct delivery pursuant to 
Sec.  146.40 because the general reference to admission into an FTZ 
encompasses the procedures provided for in part 146.
    Comment: It is unclear how limiting the time to 15 days will help 
CBP verify that the in-bond merchandise was, in fact, exported or 
entered.
    CBP Response: The requirement to enter or export merchandise within 
15 days of arrival at the destination port is consistent with existing 
regulations and is generally the current practice. See Sec. Sec.  4.37, 
18.12(d), 122.50, and 123.10. The changes in proposed Sec. Sec.  
18.1(k), 18.7, 18.12, 18.20, 18.25 and 18.26 are to ensure that there 
is uniformity within the customs regulations on this point.
    Comment: The 15-day requirement to export or enter in-bond 
merchandise under proposed Sec.  18.1(k) or to export merchandise 
pursuant to proposed Sec. Sec.  18.7(a)(2), 18.20(f), 18.25(c) and 
18.26(d) is not reasonable in many cases for goods intended to be 
exported by ocean carrier and for some petroleum shipments. Shippers 
sometimes need to hold in-bond merchandise after it has arrived in 
order to consolidate shipments from various vendors, which can take 
longer than 15 days. Merchandise to be exported by ocean carrier can 
only be exported according to the schedule of the vessel bound for the 
foreign destination of the goods. Ocean carriers do not call at each 
port of exportation every 15 days for every foreign destination. In 
many cases goods are required to remain at the port of exportation 
after arrival for periods longer than the proposed 15-day limit. 
Similarly, many petroleum products that move in-bond cannot be exported 
within 15 days of arrival due to infrastructure limitations. CBP should 
revisit this provision to either extend the 15-day time period to a 
minimum of 30 days or clarify that standing exceptions to the 15-day 
requirement to export product will be provided by CBP based on the 
operational realities that exist for these type of product in-bond 
movements.
    CBP Response: The 15-day requirement to export or enter the in-bond 
merchandise is an existing requirement and is not a change to the GO 
requirements. CBP will not extend the timeframe to 30 days as this 
would be inconsistent with other regulations governing General Order 
merchandise. However, Sec.  18.24(a) (Retention of goods within port 
limits) authorizes the port director to allow in-transit merchandise to 
remain within the port limits for up to 90 days. Additional 90-day 
extensions may be granted for up to one year from the date of arrival. 
Carriers can request an extension when they cannot export within 15 
days of arrival due to scheduling or other issues.
D. Transfers
    Comment: CBP received several comments regarding the transshipment 
provision in proposed Sec.  18.3, which provides the procedures to be 
followed when in-bond merchandise is transferred from one conveyance to 
another. The main concern was with the requirement to report to CBP 
each time the merchandise was transferred from one conveyance to 
another. Because in-bond merchandise may be transferred several times 
during the course of its journey, this reporting requirement places a 
substantial burden on the bonded carrier liable under the bond.
    CBP Response: CBP has taken these concerns into consideration and 
agrees that CBP does not need to be notified when in-bond merchandise 
is transferred from one conveyance to another. Accordingly, CBP is 
changing proposed Sec.  18.3 by removing the requirement to notify CBP 
when merchandise is transferred from one conveyance to another and by 
clarifying when in-bond merchandise is transferred to a subsequent 
bonded carrier that assumes liability for the merchandise, a report of 
arrival must be filed for the in-bond shipment and the subsequent 
carrier must submit a new in-bond application pursuant to Sec.  18.1.
    Comment: A new in-bond application should be required when another 
bond is obligated. Since the notification of transshipment must include 
the name of the bonded carrier receiving the merchandise for shipment 
to the port of destination or port of exportation, it is implied that 
there could be a change of carriers. Is liability for the merchandise 
transferred to the new carrier's bond or is a new in-bond application 
required to transfer the liability?
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that a new in-bond application is 
necessary when a different bond is obligated. Therefore, CBP is 
changing proposed Sec.  18.3 in the final rule to require that when 
merchandise is transferred to a bonded carrier that assumes the 
liability of the in-bond shipment, a report of arrival must be filed 
for the in-bond shipment and the subsequent carrier must submit a new 
in-bond application pursuant to Sec.  18.1 for the merchandise to be 
transported in-bond.
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.3(a) requires that the notification to 
CBP via EDI be done before the merchandise can be transshipped, but 
proposed Sec.  18.3(b) includes no such stipulation. CBP should make 
the requirements consistent for transshipment to a single conveyance 
(18.3(a)) and transshipment to multiple conveyances (18.3(b)).
    CBP Response: The change that CBP is making to proposed Sec.  18.3, 
i.e., removing the requirement to notify CBP when merchandise is 
transferred from one conveyance to another, addresses the concerns 
expressed in this comment.
    Comment: The carrier's difficulties in verifying the quantity of 
the merchandise to the piece count level is exacerbated when multiple 
carriers are involved. Because the transfer to multiple conveyances 
adds an additional level of complexity as compared to a transfer to a 
single conveyance, the potential for irregularities in the reporting 
and exchange of data in these situations is more prevalent.
    CBP Response: The change that CBP is making to proposed Sec.  18.3, 
i.e., removing the requirement to notify CBP when merchandise is 
transshipped from one conveyance to another, reduces the likelihood of 
irregularities that may result in reporting and exchanging of data.
    Comment: How will the trade identify the bonded carrier? It is 
assumed the bonded carrier can be identified by their SCAC code and/or 
EIN number where available. Please clarify in the final rule.
    CBP Response: The bonded carrier will be identified by the 
carrier's SCAC or tax identification number (EIN), or, for air 
carriers, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) number.
    Comment: The proposal to require the in-bond carrier to report, via 
EDI, the transfer of in-bond merchandise from one conveyance to 
another, presents a number of problems and questions. An ocean carrier 
that files an in-bond application, and on whose bond the shipment is 
authorized, often will assume the transportation responsibility for 
arranging the delivery of the goods to the in-bond destination, and 
this frequently involves numerous intermodal transshipments. Proposed 
Sec.  18.3(b) and (c) would require the bonded carrier to provide 
multiple EDI notifications to CBP. This would make

[[Page 45381]]

the continued efficient transportation of such cargo impossible.
    CBP Response: The change that CBP is making to proposed Sec.  18.3, 
i.e., removing the requirement to notify CBP when merchandise is 
transferred from one conveyance to another, addresses the concerns in 
this comment.

E. Sealing of Conveyances and Reporting of Seal Numbers

    Comment: CBP should clarify or define the term ``container'' as 
used in this rule. Does the requirement to seal containers only apply 
to ``containers'' as defined by the Customs Convention on Containers or 
does it include all road (trucks and truck trailers) and rail (rail 
cars and truck trailers on rail cars) conveyances?
    CBP Response: The Sec.  18.4 seal requirements apply to containers 
that can be sealed. This includes truck and rail conveyances. For 
further information about what are considered containers for CBP 
purposes see part 115 of the CBP regulations governing containers. The 
seal requirements for air cargo are specified in Sec.  122.92 and are 
discussed in section G below.
    Comment: The seal and container numbers should not be mandatory 
data elements. CBP would have the ability to verify the application of 
seals prior to movement and upon arrival. Seal numbers are not always 
available at the time of the in-bond transmission, especially if the 
in-bond request is made by an authorized party other than the carrier 
that loads the cargo. Providing the seal and container number with the 
in-bond request will only add minimum assurance that the goods have 
been properly controlled. Most carrier manifest systems currently do 
not capture the seal or container number. However, they do have 
elaborate scanning systems to track the progress of packages as they 
are sorted and loaded during transportation and movement, which allows 
for quick identification and location of a shipment in the event CBP 
chooses to inspect an in-bond shipment at any point in the supply 
chain. A provision to add the seal number after the initial in-bond 
request is made should be included.
    CBP Response: CBP does not agree that the seal and container 
numbers should be optional information. Requiring carriers to provide 
the seal number and container number as part of the in-bond application 
facilitates CBP's ability to ensure the safety and security of in-bond 
merchandise. To address the issue of carriers not knowing seal numbers 
at the time the in-bond application is filed, CBP is changing proposed 
Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(v) to provide that ``[i]f, at the time of the filing 
of the in-bond application, the seal number is not known, the in-bond 
application must be updated with the seal number within two business 
days of the date the bonded carrier obtains a seal number. CBP is also 
changing proposed Sec.  18.4(c) so that in the event that it becomes 
necessary to remove and replace seals from a conveyance, compartment, 
or container containing bonded merchandise, updated seal numbers must 
be transmitted to CBP. The requirements to keep in-bond merchandise 
sealed, and to re-seal unsealed merchandise, throughout the in-bond 
movement remains, and the party whose bond is obligated will be liable 
for liquidated damages for any loss, theft, or irregular delivery.
    Comment: CBP should clarify that the container and seal numbers do 
not need to be filed as part of the in-bond application because they 
have already been reported to CBP as part of the advance electronic 
manifest.
    CBP Response: The container and seal number information on the 
advance manifest will be automatically associated with the in-bond 
application. Therefore, if the container and seal number have already 
been provided on the advance manifest, the filer of the in-bond 
application will not have to resubmit the container and seal number as 
part of the in-bond application.
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.3(d)(1) specifically permits the 
breaking of CBP seals in emergency situations. CBP should specify that 
any responsible agent of the carrier may remove and replace seals at 
any time for any good reason. The requirement in proposed Sec. Sec.  
18.3(d) and 18.4(c) to obtain CBP permission to break and replace a 
seal, and to update the in-bond record would place a significant burden 
on the carrier.
    CBP Response: To address this comment and for clarity, CBP is 
making the following changes to the proposed sections regarding seals. 
First, CBP is moving some language about seal removal from proposed 
Sec.  18.3 and is addressing the circumstances for removing seals in 
Sec.  18.4. Proposed Sec.  18.3(d)(1), which covers the transfer 
(transshipment) of in-bond merchandise from one conveyance to another, 
allows for the breaking of seals in case of an emergency or for some 
other reason. CBP has concluded that the rules about when seals can be 
removed would fit better within Sec.  18.4 which applies to the sealing 
of conveyances.
    Second, CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.4 in the final rule to 
make it less restrictive. CBP agrees that a responsible agent of the 
carrier should be able to remove and replace seals for good reason and 
not just in emergencies. In response to concerns that the requirement 
to obtain CBP permission to break and replace a seal and to update the 
in-bond record with the new seal information would place a significant 
burden on in-bond carriers and to facilitate processing of in-bond 
shipments, CBP is removing these requirements and allowing a 
responsible agent of the carrier to remove the seals and reseal the 
merchandise. Specifically, CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.4 in the 
final rule to provide that seals may be removed for the purpose of 
transferring in-bond merchandise to another conveyance, compartment or 
container, or to gain access to the shipment because of casualty or for 
other good reason, such as when required by law enforcement or another 
government agency.
    Comment: C-TPAT partners should be exempt from the requirement to 
provide seal numbers. Encouraging carriers to join programs such as C-
TPAT will offer the additional assurance and controls CBP expects.
    CBP Response: CBP disagrees. Compliance with the in-bond 
regulations, including those pertaining to the sealing requirements, 
complements supply chain security and efficiency procedures being 
implemented by C-TPAT partners. However, C-TPAT membership will 
continue to be a relevant factor for targeting purposes.
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.4(b)(1) states that merchandise that is 
not covered by a bond may only be transported in a sealed conveyance or 
compartment that contains bonded merchandise if the merchandise is 
destined for the same or subsequent port as the bonded merchandise. CBP 
should recognize that less than carload or container load (LTL) in-bond 
shipments may move in conveyances, commingled with non-bonded 
merchandise, that are not sealed. This is a normal operating practice 
in domestic truck operations where numerous shipments are commingled on 
trailers and transferred, sometimes multiple times, during the life 
cycle of the shipment. CBP should allow flexibility for this 
requirement for LTL carriers, allowing them to commingle freight.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that the proposed limitations on 
transporting in-bond merchandise with non-bonded merchandise could 
hamper the transportation of in-bond merchandise, especially for LTL 
shipments. Accordingly, CBP is changing the sealing requirements in 
proposed Sec.  18.4 by adding new paragraph (b)(2) allowing

[[Page 45382]]

for the transportation of in-bond merchandise with non-bonded 
merchandise in a container or compartment that is not sealed, if the 
in-bond merchandise is corded and sealed, or labeled as in-bond 
merchandise. This will allow in-bond merchandise to be transported with 
non-bonded merchandise in a container that is not sealed and will 
facilitate the use of less than container load shipments.
    Comment: How would a filer/carrier apply for the waiver of seal 
requirements as mentioned in proposed Sec.  18.4(a)(2)?
    CBP Response: A request for a waiver of the sealing requirement can 
submitted by indicating that there is ``no seal'' when filing the in-
bond application. If CBP has concerns regarding the lack of a seal, CBP 
may require additional information or reject the in-bond application.
    Comment: The regulatory text regarding the removal and breaking of 
seals should be changed so that seals must remain intact at all times 
except for transfer operations covered under Sec. Sec.  18.3(b), 
18.3(c), 18.3(d) and bonded warehouse operations covered under Sec.  
19.6(e), in which case the breaking and affixing of new seals by the 
responsible party per 18.1(c) is authorized. Failure to keep the seals 
intact and/or remove the seals without CBP permission should result in 
the assessment of liquidated damages. This will act as a deterrent to 
theft and substitution. Furthermore, the unauthorized breaking of seal 
acts as a notification to the bonded carrier that something may be 
amiss.
    CBP Response: The proposed suggestions regarding the removal and 
breaking of seals is too restrictive and is not necessary for security 
purposes. The requirements in Sec.  18.4 of this rule adequately 
address these security issues without impeding the movement of the 
goods. By allowing for the removal of seals and requiring that new 
seals be affixed by a responsible agent of the carrier, CBP is 
providing flexibility so that the transport of the in-bond merchandise 
can be completed while still maintaining the integrity of the shipment.
    Comment: CBP should change the requirements in proposed Sec.  18.3 
so that CBP authorization is not required in order to remove seals in 
order to transfer in-bond merchandise from one conveyance to another.
    CBP Response: With the change that CBP is making to proposed Sec.  
18.3, i.e., removing the requirement to notify CBP when merchandise is 
transferred from one conveyance to another, the concerns in this 
comment have been addressed.
    Comment: How will CBP handle trucks that are stopped for a 
potential road violation where the driver is required to open the truck 
by the highway patrol or other governmental agency resulting in the 
seal that was used for the movement of in-bond merchandise being 
broken?
    CBP Response: CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.4(c) in the final 
rule to allow for the removal of seals for good reason and, as 
discussed in a prior response, require new seals to be affixed by a 
responsible agent of the carrier. Accordingly, if the responsible agent 
of a carrier, e.g., the driver, is required to open a sealed container 
by local law enforcement or other governmental agency, the agent can 
replace the broken seal with a new seal.
    Comment: As unforeseen circumstances not contemplated by proposed 
Sec.  18.3(d) could arise, we suggest that the language be updated to 
read ``removal of seals without CBP permission may result in the 
assessment of liquidated damages.''
    CBP Response: As discussed in a prior response, CBP permission will 
not be needed to remove seals. However, the party whose bond is 
obligated will be liable for liquidated damages for any loss, theft, or 
irregular delivery of the in-bond merchandise.
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.4(a)(1) states, ``The seals to be used 
and the method for sealing conveyances, compartments, or packages must 
meet the requirements of Sec. Sec.  24.13 and 24.13a of this chapter 
[19 CFR].'' Can CBP confirm that containerized ocean cargo shipments 
being transported in-bond that are secured with a high security seal 
meeting applicable ISO standards meet the requirements of these 
sections?
    CBP Response: The proposed regulations do not change any of the 
existing requirements regarding how containers are sealed and what 
types of seals are to be used. Containerized ocean cargo shipments 
being transported in-bond may be secured with a high security seal 
meeting applicable ISO standards, which meets CBP's requirements to 
seal containers transporting in-bond merchandise.
    Comment: CBP should require that trailers be sealed with ISO 
compliant high security seals when goods are being shipped in-transit 
through the United States or Canada.
    CBP Response: Proposed Sec.  18.4 requires that in-bond merchandise 
be sealed in accordance with CBP regulations, specifically Sec. Sec.  
24.13 and 24.13a. However, it should be noted that C-TPAT members are 
required to use International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 
compliant seals by virtue of their participation in C-TPAT. As a 
result, many in-bond carriers use ISO compliant seals.

F. Air Cargo

    Comment: CBP needs to clarify the scope of this NPRM, which is 
confusing in respect to existing CBP air commerce regulations. It is 
not clear if air carriers would be subject to the new process 
supplemented by any specific provisions in part 122 (air commerce 
regulations), or if air carriers would not be affected and would be 
able to simply continue handling in bonds under only the provisions of 
part 122.
    CBP Response: The existing air commerce regulations in part 122 
will continue to govern the movement of in-bond shipments by air, 
except for the maximum in-transit time. Under the existing regulations, 
the maximum in-transit time for air cargo transported in-bond is 15 
days. Under proposed Sec. Sec.  122.119 and 122.120 the maximum in-
transit time for air cargo transported to another U.S. port is 
increased to 30 days. Proposed Sec.  18.0 (Scope; definitions), 
provides that except as provided in parts 122 and 123, part 18 sets 
forth the requirements and procedures pertaining to the transportation 
of merchandise in-bond. Parts 122 (Air Commerce) and 123 (Customs 
Relations with Canada and Mexico) govern the rules and procedures for 
the transportation of in-bond merchandise, respectively, in the air 
environment and in-transit merchandise traveling through the United 
States, Canada or Mexico by truck and train. The provisions of part 18 
are applicable to the in-bond procedures not specifically addressed in 
parts 122 and 123. For example, proposed Sec.  18.8 governing the 
liability of in-bond carriers is applicable to all in-bond movements, 
regardless of the mode of transportation. Conversely, the provision of 
proposed Sec.  18.4(a)(1) requiring the sealing of containers does not 
apply to in-bond merchandise traveling by air, because Sec.  122.92(f) 
specifically provides that the sealing of aircraft, aircraft 
compartments carrying bonded merchandise, or the cording and sealing of 
bonded packages carried by the aircraft, is not required.
    Comment: With regard to the in-bond application process, air 
carriers are aware that ACE provides additional functionality to allow 
better visibility to and control of who obligates a carrier's bond. 
With the elimination of the 7512 paper form, air carriers will have no 
visibility to or ability to control who is obligating their bonds. 
Until such time as air is fully transitioned into ACE, CBP must provide 
air carriers with the

[[Page 45383]]

capability to view electronic in-bonds opened on their behalf and 
control who has the ability to obligate their bonds. One suggestion is 
to provide air carriers with the ability to open an ACE account to 
allow them the same access to in-bond reports and control tools that 
are available to ocean and rail carriers.
    CBP Response: When the notice of proposed rulemaking was issued, 
the functionality for filing electronic air in-bond applications for 
air shipments in ACE did not exist. However, this functionality was 
delivered through Air ACE (M2.1) on June 7, 2015. Currently, Air ACE 
permits an air carrier to view in-bond reports to see who is obligating 
its bonds. Although CBP intends to fully automate the in-bond process, 
including in-bond movements by air, changes to the regulations 
pertaining to in-bond movements by air will be handled under a separate 
rulemaking. Until such time, the 7512 paper form may still be used in 
the air environment.
    Comment: The proposed changes will force bonded carriers to operate 
in multiple CBP-approved electronic systems (ACE, Air AMS, and ABI QP/
WP) when the mode of transportation changes as shipments are 
transported. This is a problem for express carriers that currently use 
Air AMS to process in-bond shipments. For example, it is common to have 
transit shipments arrive into the United States via truck and the 
electronic in-bond request submitted at the land border via ACE. The 
shipment subsequently departs the United States via air. CBP should 
provide status messages between ACE and Air AMS, allowing for the 
electronic arrival and exportation of these bonded shipments via AMS 
for the proper closure in CBP systems. Without this electronic 
interface, the bonded carrier would have no choice but to provide paper 
in-bonds to CBP for proper exportation. If CBP does not provide status 
updates between EDI systems, the bonded entity will have a tremendous 
administrative burden to track all in-bond shipments opened in ACE, 
which would require ``manual'' posting in ACE (arrival/exportation). 
This issue is further compounded when transportation services are 
shared between multiple business units within the same entity.
    CBP Response: CBP tracks the in-bond merchandise based on the mode 
in which the in-bond application was filed, regardless of what other 
modes of transportation are used to transport the in-bond merchandise. 
Accordingly, if the in-bond movement starts out in air, it remains an 
air in-bond entry for tracking purposes until the in-bond merchandise 
arrives at the destination port, port of exportation, or the in-bond is 
closed and a new in-bond is initiated in another mode of 
transportation. The movement will be tracked according to the new mode 
of transportation when a new in-bond number is created as the result of 
a new in-bond application.
    CBP has established multi-modal electronic procedures within ABI 
(QP/WP) that will allow any authorized party to file an in-bond 
application electronically regardless of the mode of transportation. QP 
is used to initiate the in-bond application and WP is used to arrive/
export the in-bond shipment. As of June 7, 2015, QP/WP can be used for 
all in-bond transactions, regardless of mode. This provides tracking of 
in-bond transactions between various modes and tracking history within 
ACE.
    Comment: Air carriers request that CBP clearly define the 
requirements and procedures for intermodal in-bond transfers prior to 
any implementation of this rule. Currently, other transport modes 
provide a CBP Form 7512 with shipments that are moving to an air 
carrier, and the air carrier delivers the CBP Form 7512 to CBP at the 
port of exportation or destination to close the in-bond. The air 
carrier regulations at Sec. Sec.  122.92 and 122.93 specifically state 
that form 7512 or ``other Customs approved document'' shall be 
delivered to the carrier at the in-bond origin, and the carrier shall 
deliver that to the port director at the in-bond destination port. What 
will be the process for reconciling ``intermodal-to-air'' in-bonds in 
the absence of a 7512 paper form?
    CBP Response: QP/WP now can be used for all in-bond transactions, 
regardless of mode, and provides tracking of in-bond transactions 
between various modes and tracking history within ACE. Whether the 
initial in-bond is filed in ocean, rail, truck or air, the in-bond 
movement will be tracked by CBP in the mode in which it was opened. In 
such case, the in-bond can be closed with an electronic filing upon 
arrival at the destination port.
    Comment: Air carriers utilize ``unit load devices'' (ULDs) which 
are totally dissimilar in structural integrity from an ocean container. 
Aircraft also have multiple areas used for transport of cargo, whether 
loaded in ULDs or loose. Does CBP consider ULDs and these areas 
``compartments'' that might be subject to sealing under the proposed 
rule?
    CBP Response: The sealing and labeling requirements for in-bond 
merchandise transported by air are specified in Sec. Sec.  122.92(f) 
and 122.92(g), respectively. Section 122.92(f) does not require the 
sealing of aircraft compartments carrying in-bond merchandise, or the 
cording and sealing of bonded packages. However, Sec.  122.92(g) 
requires bonded packages to be affixed with the label provided for in 
proposed Sec.  18.4(b)(3). Therefore, pursuant to Sec.  122.92(f), ULDs 
used in aircraft do not have to be sealed. However, in-bond merchandise 
inside of ULDs must be labeled pursuant to Sec.  122.92(g), which 
requires the affixing of labels as provided for in proposed Sec.  
18.4(b)(3).
    Comment: Do the timeframes for notifying CBP of arrival contained 
in proposed Sec. Sec.  18.1(j) (Report of Arrival), 18.7(a)(1) (Lading 
for Exportation, Notice), and 18.20(c) (Entry Procedures), apply to air 
cargo moving in-bond via truck to the port of destination, since there 
are no arrival timelines provided in Sec.  122.93?
    CBP Response: If the movement is an air in-bond movement initiated 
under part 122, the notice of arrival procedures contained in Sec.  
122.93 are applicable. As of June 7, 2015, air carriers can submit the 
notice of arrival electronically in ACE.
    Comment: Considering the existence of Sec.  122.94 which places no 
restrictions on divided shipments, what is the exact application of the 
proposed Sec.  18.24(b) language to air with regard to the submission 
of new in-bond applications and time limits for initiation of divided 
shipment movements?
    CBP Response: Proposed Sec.  18.24(b) does not apply to air 
shipments of in-bond merchandise. Sections 122.93 and 122.94 specify 
the procedures for exporting air in-bond merchandise, including the 
handling of divided shipments at the port of exportation for in-bond 
merchandise transported by air.
    Comment: CBP should revise existing Sec.  122.92 which allows for 
three copies of an air waybill for T&E, because CBP has indicated that 
the core intent is to automate the in-bond process.
    CBP Response: Although CBP intends to fully automate the in-bond 
process, including in-bond movements by air, changes to the regulations 
pertaining to in-bond movements by air will be handled under a separate 
rulemaking. Until that rulemaking process is completed, Sec.  122.92 
applies to in-bond movements by air.

G. Liability of the Parties

    Comment: The transfer of bond liability is currently based on 
signed paper documents, but it is unclear in a completely automated 
environment what ``electronic'' event triggers the transfer of 
liability and the obligation of a different bond.
    CBP Response: The transfer of liability to a new bonded party will 
be

[[Page 45384]]

accomplished by the filing and acceptance of a new in-bond application 
for the merchandise to be transported in-bond. CBP is changing proposed 
Sec.  18.3 in the final rule to make this clear.
    Comment: Throughout the proposed regulations there are references 
to ``the bonded carrier'' but it is often unclear which bonded carrier 
has the liability for the cargo. As there may be more than one bonded 
entity involved in an in-bond movement (e.g., arriving carrier, 
delivering carrier, export carrier, FTZ operator), a clear 
understanding is required of the events and evidence that would shift 
legal liability from one bonded party to another, particularly in an 
electronic environment.
    CBP Response: For further clarification, CBP is adding a definition 
to proposed Sec.  18.0(b) for ``bonded carrier.'' This term is defined 
as the carrier whose bond is obligated for the in-bond movement of the 
merchandise as shown in the in-bond record. This party is liable for 
failure to meet the requirements of Part 18, Part 122 or Part 123 (as 
applicable) or any of the other conditions specified in the bond. CBP 
is also changing proposed Sec.  18.3 in the final rule to clarify that 
in order to transfer liability from one carrier to another, a report of 
arrival must be filed for the in-bond merchandise and the subsequent 
carrier must submit a new in-bond application pursuant to Sec.  18.1.
    Comment: Holding the bonded carrier liable for liquidated damages 
for failing to comply with any of the requirements found at Part 18 or 
any of the conditions specified in the bond is too broad. This affords 
CBP a general license to impose liquidated damages against bonded 
carriers for even minor and technical infractions such as unintended 
data transmission errors. CBP should assess liquidated damages only for 
egregious violations and other violations specifically listed, such as 
for irregular delivery.
    CBP Response: Liquidated damages are assessed when the conditions 
of the bond are violated. One of the conditions is to comply with CBP 
regulations relating to the handling of bonded merchandise. See Sec.  
113.63(b)(3). CBP primarily ensures compliance with in-bond 
requirements, including those that the commenters have categorized as 
``minor and technical infractions,'' through the assessment of 
liquidated damages. CBP disagrees that it should take action only with 
respect to egregious violations. The obligations established by 
regulation regarding the processing of in-bond entries and safekeeping 
of in-bond merchandise are necessary requirements. A breach of any of 
the obligations may result in the assessment of liquidated damages. The 
decision to assess any claim is one of administrative discretion, so 
CBP may always refrain from issuing a claim if deemed advisable. CBP 
may also choose to cancel liquidated damages claims upon payment of a 
lesser amount pursuant to 19 U.S.C. 1623(c) and has published 
guidelines when CBP deems that such action is appropriate.
    Comment: The bonded carrier should not be held liable for the 
submission of data elements for which it has no true knowledge of their 
accuracy.
    CBP Response: The carrier whose bond is obligated is responsible 
for the information submitted in conjunction with the in-bond 
application and subsequent updates to the in-bond record and is subject 
to the assessment of liquidated damages for not complying with the 
terms of the bond, which includes adherence to the in-bond regulations. 
However, when issuing claims and considering their mitigation, CBP will 
consider whether a party reasonably relied on information submitted to 
it from a third party.
    Comment: The language in proposed Sec.  18.2 should be revised so 
that when merchandise is delivered to a bonded common carrier, contract 
carrier, freight forwarder or private carrier, the merchandise may be 
transported with the use of facilities of other bonded or non-bonded 
carriers; however, the responsibility for the merchandise will remain 
with the common carrier, contract carrier, freight forwarder or private 
carrier whose bond is obligated.
    CBP Response: Under proposed Sec.  18.2, merchandise may be 
transported with the use of facilities of other bonded or non-bonded 
carriers. However, the responsibility for transporting in-bond 
merchandise will remain with the party whose bond is obligated.

H. Export of Merchandise

1. Reporting Arrival at Port of Exportation
    Comment: The proposed changes to the in-bond process mandate that 
the delivering carrier report, via a CBP-approved EDI system, the 
arrival of any portion of an in-bond shipment within 24 hours of 
arrival at the port of exportation. This represents a substantial 
change from the current regulations. Currently, the carrier has ``2 
working days after arrival'' to report. The reduction to 24 hours 
places a substantial new reporting burden on the carrier, zone 
operators, and other parties, that will require additional staff to 
work weekends and holidays. The proposed 24-hour requirement should be 
changed to two business days.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees. As discussed in Section I.B.2. above, CBP 
is changing proposed Sec.  18.20 to require the report of arrival be 
filed within two business days after arrival. In addition, CBP is 
moving the provision setting forth this time limit from Sec.  18.20(c) 
to Sec.  18.20(g), as it fits better in the context of paragraph (g).
    Comment: How will CBP respond to system down time if ACE is not 
available to report the arrival of the in-bond merchandise within 24 
hours?
    CBP Response: CBP is changing proposed Sec. Sec.  18.1(j), 
18.7(a)(1), and 18.20 to provide that the notice of arrival must be 
submitted within two business days after arrival. This should generally 
provide adequate time in the event of a system outage. In case there is 
an outage that prevents compliance with the notice requirements, 
carriers will need to contact the port at which the in-bond merchandise 
has arrived for instructions on how to submit the required information. 
Each outage presents unique circumstances that will be dealt with on a 
case-by-case basis according to the port's instructions.
    Comment: Proposed Sec. Sec.  18.7(a)(3), 18.20(g), 18.25(f) and 
18.26(e) require the bonded carrier to update the in-bond record when 
the in-bond merchandise is exported. The proposed language is unclear 
as to which bonded carrier must complete this notification. Because 
there can be multiple bonded carriers involved in the transport of 
merchandise for a single shipment, CBP should clarify the language 
regarding the specific bonded carrier that is responsible for this 
notification.
    CBP Response: After further consideration, CBP is of the view that 
for consistency, any of the parties who can amend the in-bond record as 
described in proposed Sec.  18.1(h) should be able to update the in-
bond record to reflect that the merchandise has been exported. These 
parties include the filer of the in-bond application or any other party 
identified in Sec.  18.1(c). Therefore, CBP is changing proposed 
Sec. Sec.  18.7(a)(3), 18.20(g), 18.25(f) and 18.26(e) in the final 
rule to remove the requirement that the bonded carrier must update the 
record and to simply provide that the in-bond record must be updated by 
any of the parties identified in 18.1(c) or their agent. However, the 
party whose bond is obligated is the party that is responsible for 
ensuring the in-bond record is up to date.
2. Proof of Exportation
    Comment: For consistency, CBP should provide a detailed list of all

[[Page 45385]]

acceptable forms of proof of exportation. The current CBP practice on 
the southern border with Mexico is to require a supervised export and 
for CBP to provide the driver with a perforated copy of the CBP Form 
7512. This document serves as the proof of exportation. Will CBP create 
a new form that can serve as proof of export?
    CBP Response: Section 113.55 covers the procedures for cancelling 
export bonds and lists the documents that may be used as proof of 
export for such purpose. These documents would also be acceptable proof 
that in-bond merchandise has been exported. The documents, or their 
electronic equivalent, included in Sec.  113.55 are the listing of the 
merchandise on the outward manifest or outward bill of lading, the 
inspector's certificate of lading, the record of clearance of the 
vessel or of the departure of the vehicle, and a foreign landing 
certificate if the certificate is required by the port director. CBP 
will not create a new form of the perforated CBP Form 7512. These paper 
documents would be used in an audit scenario to demonstrate exportation 
of the in-bond merchandise.
    Comment: Proposed Sec. Sec.  18.7(a)(3), 18.20(g), 18.25(f) and 
18.26(e) provide that the principal on any bond filed to guarantee 
exportation may be required by the port director to provide evidence of 
exportation. However, the language is unclear as to which bond is 
obligated especially when there are multiple carriers. Clarification as 
to which principal is required to complete this notification, 
especially in the circumstance of multiple carriers for a single in-
bond move, should be provided.
    CBP Response: The requirement to provide proof of exportation at 
the request of the port director resides with the party whose bond was 
obligated to complete the in-bond transaction.
    Comment: CBP should clarify the meaning and intent of proposed 
Sec.  18.26(c) (Transfer at selected port of exportation). It specifies 
that if in-bond merchandise is to be transferred to another conveyance 
after it has arrived at the port of exportation, the procedures 
prescribed in proposed Sec.  18.3(d) will be followed. However, 
proposed Sec.  18.3(d) pertains to the ``Transshipment of merchandise 
in emergency situations.'' The transfer to another conveyance under 
normal course of business is not an ``emergency situation.''
    CBP Response: For clarity, CBP is moving the provision covering the 
removal of seals from proposed Sec.  18.3(d) (transshipment of 
merchandise in emergency situations) to Sec.  18.4(c) (removal and 
replacement of seals). The language in proposed Sec.  18.26(c) is being 
changed accordingly to reference the procedures for the removal of 
seals in Sec.  18.4(c) in this final rule. Regarding the concerns of 
the commenter, the placement of the procedures for the removal of seals 
under its new heading in Sec.  18.4(c) makes clear that the procedures 
do not merely apply in an ``emergency situation.''
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.23 provides that T&Es may be entered for 
consumption, warehouse, FTZ or any other form of entry, and are subject 
to all the conditions pertaining to merchandise entered at a port of 
first arrival. The options provided are viable for in-bond shipments, 
whether or not there is a change of foreign destination or change of 
entry. Therefore, this language should apply to all types of entries, 
not just T&Es and should be included in proposed Sec.  18.20 (General 
Rules), rather than in Sec.  18.23 regarding change of foreign 
destination.
    CBP Response: Although the commenter's suggestion has some merit, 
for consistency and clarity CBP has tried to mirror the format of the 
existing regulations when possible and to include substantive 
provisions under detailed headings. In this case, the current 
regulation that addresses the change of entry for T&Es is Sec.  18.23 
(Change of destination; change of entry) and the current regulation 
that addresses the change of entry for ITs is Sec.  18.12 (Entry at 
port of destination). We are amending Sec.  18.12(a) to specifically 
state that merchandise received under an immediate transportation entry 
at the port of destination may be entered for consumption, 
transportation and exportation, immediate exportation, or for immediate 
transportation, or under an FTZ admission. Current Sec.  18.23 also 
specifies what happens when T&E merchandise is subject on importation 
to quarantine or other restrictions. The proposed regulations maintain 
this same format and headings. The statement that T&Es are subject to 
all the conditions pertaining to merchandise entered at a port of first 
arrival is intended to incorporate and expand on the concept in the 
current regulation about merchandise that is subject on importation to 
quarantine or other restrictions.

I. Diversion of Merchandise

    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.5(a) requires the party that submitted 
the in-bond application to submit a request to divert merchandise via a 
CBP-approved EDI system. It further provides that authorization for the 
diversion and movement of merchandise will be transmitted via a CBP-
approved EDI system. Approval should be automatic. When the diversion 
request is denied, CBP should provide a detailed reason for the denial 
within 24 hours of the denial notification.
    CBP Response: CBP will notify the filer of the approval immediately 
by the updating of the port code in the in-bond record. If the update 
of the port code is rejected, that will constitute the denial of the 
diversion request. The in-bond record will be updated quickly upon the 
denial of the diversion request. Although the filer will not be 
notified of the reason for the denial, the filer may contact the port 
for such information.
    Comment: If a diversion is prohibited, for example, by law or for a 
specific control of a commodity or shipment, this could be noted 
systemically by CBP at the time of original processing and approval of 
the in-bond application. A statement such as ``Diversion Not 
Authorized'' could be added to the in-bond record for simple reference 
by CBP and the in-bond carrier.
    CBP Response: CBP will take this comment under advisement for 
future updates to the CBP-approved EDI.
    Comment: Express carriers use multiple ports from which to export 
in-bond shipments from the United States. Packages shipped in-bond may 
be re-routed and diverted to different ports of exportation several 
times prior to the actual exportation of the merchandise. As a result, 
CBP may receive several diversion requests for one in-bond shipment 
prior to exportation. This could place a substantial burden on the 
carrier and on CBP's systems. Moreover, due to the large volume and 
short timeframes involved, it may not be possible to verify the 
accuracy of the requests until the in-bond shipment is physically 
exported. Therefore, CBP should accept diversion updates post departure 
when the data is most accurate. This would minimize the number of 
diversion messages reported to CBP and increase data accuracy.
    CBP Response: CBP is requiring authorization to divert in-bond 
merchandise because the existing diversion procedures make it 
challenging for CBP to identify the destination port of a diverted 
shipment and to determine whether the merchandise reaches that 
destination. This situation presents a security risk, a risk of 
circumvention of other agencies' admissibility requirements, and a risk 
that proper duties will not be collected. Acceptance of post-departure 
diversion requests would undermine the objectives of the proposed rule. 
Diversion requests and updates can be submitted at any time and are not

[[Page 45386]]

limited in number. If the port of exportation for in-transit shipments 
changes multiple times, the requests should be submitted for each 
change as the change occurs.
    Comment: The requirement in proposed Sec.  18.5(a) to obtain 
authorization prior to the diversion of in-bond merchandise will reduce 
the ability of carriers to arrive merchandise at the destination port 
or port of exportation within 30 days. This is especially true if the 
diversion request is denied and the carrier has to re-route the in-bond 
merchandise.
    CBP Response: Approval and denial of diversion requests will be 
communicated immediately and should not result in delays long enough to 
impede the completion of the in-bond movement within the required in-
transit time. However, an extension of the in-transit time may be 
requested when necessary.
    Comment: In order to provide guidance to the trade community and to 
help CBP review diversion requests, CBP should establish criteria for 
granting or denying a diversion request. Some factors CBP should 
consider are the carrier's associated costs if the diversion request is 
denied, the time constraints associated with denying diversion 
requests, and any other constraints associated with the original port 
of destination or port of exportation.
    CBP Response: Although CBP has the discretion to deny a request for 
diversion, CBP will generally grant a reasonable diversion requests. 
For example, CBP will deny a request for a diversion when another 
government agency mandates delivery of the merchandise to the 
destination identified in the original filing. CBP is revising Sec.  
18.5 to incorporate this example.

J. Immediate Transportation

    Comment: With respect to the filing of an IT in-bond application, 
proposed Sec.  18.11(a)(2) requires the importer to stipulate in the 
in-bond application that within 24 hours after the arrival of any part 
of the merchandise or baggage to a place outside the port of entry, the 
importer will file an entry for the shipment and will comply with the 
provisions of Sec.  151.9 of this chapter, before permission will be 
granted by CBP to transport the merchandise in-bond. There is concern 
about having the bonded carrier stipulate that the importer will timely 
file an entry and comply with other regulations since this is outside 
of the bonded carrier's control. It is also unclear how a stipulation 
to file entry is to be included on the in-bond application upon 
submission to CBP. In an effort to continue to transition to an 
electronic environment, if an actual stipulation is required, 
provisions for including this declaration in the electronic in-bond 
application should be available.
    CBP Response: To address these concerns, CBP is removing Sec.  
18.11(a)(2) from the final rule and adding the requirement that the in-
bond merchandise be transported to a place outside the port of entry in 
accordance with the provisions of Sec. Sec.  151.7 and 151.9 of this 
Chapter.

K. Divided Shipments and Retention of Goods Within Port Limits

1. Divided Shipments
    Comment: Is CBP requiring the bonded carrier to request 
authorization for a split shipment in advance of the shipment movement? 
If so, when must the request be submitted? In most cases, the bonded 
carrier will not be aware of a split movement until the initial 
conveyance has departed. The split movement will not be known until a 
portion of the shipment has in fact been exported, departed the port of 
unlading or has arrived at the destination port.
    CBP Response: Proposed Sec.  18.5(c) only covers situations where a 
carrier diverts an in-bond shipment to more than one port, or where a 
portion of an in-bond shipment is approved for a consumption or 
warehouse entry. In such cases, a diversion request is necessary. If 
granted, a new in-bond application must be submitted for each portion 
of the original shipment to be transported in-bond. CBP is changing 
proposed Sec.  18.3 in the final rule regarding transfer to eliminate 
the requirement to obtain CBP authorization when in-bond merchandise is 
transported on more than one conveyance, but arrives at the same 
destination port or port of exportation. Also, for clarity, CBP will 
use the term ``divided shipment'' in this final rule instead of ``split 
shipment'' to refer to the situation where a carrier diverts an in-bond 
shipment to more than one port or to a consumption or warehouse entry. 
CBP used the term ``split shipment'' in the proposed rule to refer to 
the division of an in-bond shipment. However, the term ``split 
shipments'' refers specifically to the treatment of multiple entries of 
merchandise as a single transaction pursuant to 19 U.S.C. 1484(j) and 
19 CFR 141.57 and 141.58.
    Comment: The requirement in proposed Sec.  18.5(c) to initiate a 
new in-bond for each [divided] shipment will be difficult for express 
carriers to comply with because of the large number of in-bond 
shipments that they move through the United States. CBP should consider 
allowing the carrier or agent to submit the [divided] shipment 
information after departure, when the information is most accurate. 
This process will provide CBP the most accurate up to date export or 
arrival information which will assist CBP with the electronic 
reconciliation of the in-bond record.
    CBP Response: CBP is requiring the filing of a new in-bond 
application for in-bond shipments that will be diverted to more than 
one port to enable CBP to identify in advance the destination of a 
diverted shipment and to determine whether the merchandise reaches that 
destination. This procedure will also ensure that other agencies' 
admissibility requirements are not circumvented and that proper duties 
are collected. CBP appreciates that this process may impose a burden on 
express carriers and CBP will seek ways to mitigate this burden.
    Comment: CBP should automate the ASN3 (in-bond arrival message set 
for Air AMS) and ASN7 (in-bond export message set for Air AMS) messages 
to allow for piece count and export port identifier to properly track 
the [divided] shipment. This will provide CBP updated movement 
information, including ports of departure.
    CBP Response: CBP has incorporated these automation features in Air 
ACE, which has replaced Air AMS and is now operational.
    Comment: CBP's requirement in proposed Sec.  18.24(b) that all 
movements of a [divided] shipment be initiated within two days after 
the [division] has been authorized is not feasible for various reasons. 
First, the conveyance must be secured and loaded and normal delivery 
hours and schedules at the port can limit the amount of loading that 
can be accomplished in a two-day period. Second, in many cases, a 
bonded carrier may have limited conveyances for specific export 
destinations or ports. Third, it may be impossible to close a [divided] 
shipment within two days when multiple modes are utilized (combination 
of truck and air). Finally, some shipments are more time consuming and 
require special handling.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that it may not be feasible to initiate 
movement of divided shipments within two days of the day CBP authorized 
the divided shipment. CBP is removing this requirement in the final 
rule.

2. Retention of Goods Within Port Limits

    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.24(a), which allows for the retention of 
goods within

[[Page 45387]]

the port limits for up to 90 days with CBP approval, should be 
clarified as follows: (1) To indicate that retention as described is at 
the port of exportation and (2) to specify how the application to 
retain the goods at the port of exportation for up to 90 days should be 
made. Is the purpose of requiring the filing of an Immediate 
Exportation (IE) entry to close the original Transportation and 
Exportation (T&E) entry to shift liability for the in-bond cargo?
    CBP Response: CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.24(a) in the final 
rule to clarify that the retention of goods applies to the port of 
exportation. The application to retain the merchandise at the port of 
exportation must be made, and approval will be given, via a CBP 
approved EDI. The purpose of filing an IE is to close out the original 
T&E. The party whose bond is obligated on the IE will be the party who 
is responsible for the export of the merchandise. However, the party 
obligated on the original T&E remains obligated for the shipment unless 
and until an IE is filed.

M. Potential Impact

    Comment: One commenter estimated that the new data, reporting, and 
monitoring requirements of the proposed rule will increase costs for 
in-bond carriers in a number of ways. The commenter claims that 
requiring carriers to report the HTSUS number and changing the 
requirement from having to file the final foreign destination to having 
to file the ultimate destination will increase costs by an estimated 5 
percent and 1 percent, respectively, and requiring carriers to notify 
CBP of a change in the final foreign destination will increase costs by 
an additional 5 percent. The commenter further states that carriers 
will see significant cost increases due to the shortened transit time, 
the requirement to request extensions when in-bond cargo cannot reach 
the ultimate destination within the required time, and the ability of 
government agencies to shorten, with notice, the required transit time. 
Lastly, the commenter notes that the requirement to receive 
authorization to transport and/or divert restricted merchandise from 
the government agencies responsible for regulating the restricted 
merchandise will also increase costs significantly.
    CBP Response: CBP has taken these cost estimates submitted by the 
commenter under advisement when finalizing this rule. However, because 
CBP received comments on the cost impacts of this rule from only one 
party and this commenter does not provide specific data concerning the 
nature of the cost impacts, we are unable to extrapolate the estimates 
to the entire universe of carriers. CBP believes that the above changes 
to the in-bond requirements are necessary for the security of the 
United States, for protection of the revenue and to ensure that 
merchandise admissibility is not compromised. However, whenever 
possible, CBP has made changes to lessen the burden and costs to the 
public in response to various comments. For example, in response to 
concerns that in-bond shipments transported by barge may not be able to 
arrive at the destination port or port of exportation within 30 days, 
CBP changed proposed Sec.  18.1(i)(1) to allow 60 days for the arrival 
of in-bond merchandise transported by barge. For a full discussion of 
the costs and benefits of this regulation, see Section IV., Regulatory 
Analysis.

N. Miscellaneous Items

1. Impact on Inland Ports
    Comment: Has CBP taken into consideration the impact the changes 
this rule will have on inland ports of entry and the clearance process? 
As shippers examine the impact of the proposed changes on their 
business and determine that the in-bond process has become too onerous 
and burdensome, they may look to change their business practices and 
stop transporting merchandise in-bond. This could impact staffing 
levels at inland ports that were once needed to process consumption 
entries for in-bond merchandise.
    CBP Response: The new electronic in-bond processing should 
facilitate the use of in-bond procedures. Although concerns have been 
raised about some of the requirements contained within the proposal 
(many of which CBP is addressing by not adopting various proposed 
provisions in this final rule), CBP has received no other comments 
indicating that shippers will stop using the in-bond program.
2. Supervision of Rail Shipments
    Comment: To maximize space and weight used on a rail car, importers 
may preload a railcar and provide the carrier the load sheet details. 
The carrier then transmits the exact load per rail car to CBP. Once the 
in-bond submission is accepted by CBP the rail car dispatches. Will CBP 
advise the carrier prior to loading and in-bond transmission if 
supervision is required?
    CBP Response: If supervision is required, CBP will notify the 
carrier prior to acceptance of the in-bond application.
3. Textiles
    Comment: The textile provision in proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(iv) 
goes far beyond the requirements of a carrier moving commodities from 
origin to destination, regardless of crossing borders. This provision, 
which is specific to legislation dating back over 60 years, pertains to 
admissibility and not transport. More fundamentally, reference to the 
Agricultural Act of 1954 is in essence reference to quantitative 
restrictions, i.e. quotas, which are now eliminated for textile and 
apparel items from most origin countries. Consequently, this 
requirement is applicable for only a small minority of imported textile 
and apparel items, and therefore unduly burdensome. Moreover, this 
provision requires information that is not readily available to 
carriers and in such detail that carriers cannot comply with the 
provision without the assistance of a customs broker.
    CBP Response: The proposed requirements mandating the in-bond filer 
to provide sufficient detail for certain textile items so that the port 
director can determine the duties and taxes are in the existing 
regulations at Sec.  18.11(e), pertaining to IT shipments. These 
requirements have not posed problems for carriers in the past. The 
proposed regulations did expand the application of these requirements 
by making them also applicable to IE and T&E shipments. In order to 
minimize the burden on the trade and to make it consistent with the 
existing regulations, CBP is removing this requirement from proposed 
Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(iv) and moving it to Sec.  18.11(d) so that it is only 
applicable to IT in-bond shipments as is currently the case.
4. Cartmen
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(3) provides that the in-bond 
application can be filed at any time prior to the merchandise departing 
the in-bond origination port. In the past, CBP required authorization 
for the movement of the cargo from the importing carrier/terminal to 
the bonded carrier by bonded cartmen within the port limits and, 
indeed, the CBP Form 7512 document was integral to this process. CBP 
should clarify (1) whether bonded cartmen will be subject to this new 
requirement, and (2) CBP's plans and programming changes for bonded 
cartmen reporting requirements relating to such delivery from the 
importing to bonded carrier within the origination port limits.
    CBP Response: A permit to transfer is still required in order to 
move the

[[Page 45388]]

merchandise from the importing carrier or terminal to the bonded 
carrier moving the merchandise in-bond. This rule does not change that 
requirement or the timing of such requirement. CBP is making 
programming changes to facilitate the reporting requirements for bonded 
cartmen. Appropriate regulatory changes will be made in the future.
5. Carnets
    Comment: CBP should clarify the numerous references to carnets 
throughout CBP's proposed changes to the in-bond process. This NPRM is 
not intended to include the ATA (Admission Temporaire--Temporary 
Admission) and Tecro/AIT \2\ carnet as they are not considered ``in-
bond'' entries. Accordingly, CBP should remove any reference to ATA and 
Tecro/AIT carnets, as well as any generic references to carnets. At 
present, the ATA and Tecro/AIT entries are handled by entering the data 
manually and CBP should work with the trade to ensure that ACE and/or 
ACS can accommodate the tens of thousands of ATA and Tecro/AIT entries 
per year.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ ``TECRO/AIT carnet'' means the document issued pursuant to 
the Bilateral Agreement between the Taipei Economic and Cultural 
Representative Office (TECRO) and the American Institute in Taiwan 
(AIT) to cover the temporary admission of goods. 19 CFR 114.1(g).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CBP Response: This rule does not change the regulations as they 
relate to ATA and Tecro/AIT carnets either substantively or where they 
are codified.
6. Sharing of Information and Confidentiality
    Comment: The proposed rule does not promote or maintain the 
confidentiality of the shipper's or importer's commercial information. 
While it is true that entry information transmitted to CBP by a customs 
broker is exempt from disclosure, it is equally true that manifest 
information filed by carriers is routinely accessed under the Freedom 
of Information Act by various commercial enterprises. Unless CBP 
recognizes in-bond entries as ``customs business'' and restricts the 
transmission of this information to licensed customs brokers, it must 
be anticipated that carriers and transportation intermediaries will 
seek to streamline their processes and require that this information be 
included on the existing shipping documentation which their staffs are 
accustomed to handling. This will further expose shipper's or 
importer's confidential business information to dissemination within 
the supply chain without a concurrent trade benefit. CBP needs to 
develop a mechanism to keep this sensitive commercial information 
private or restrict its transmission to those parties who are required 
by statute to safeguard their client's commercial information, i.e., 
customs brokers.
    CBP Response: The filing of an in-bond application does not 
constitute customs business requiring a licensed broker and CBP does 
not believe that CBP needs to mandate the use of customs brokers in 
order to safeguard sensitive commercial information. CBP has modified 
the proposed regulations to require less detailed information in the 
in-bond application (e.g., removing proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(v) 
requiring other identifying information and removing the requirement to 
provide the rule, regulation, law, standard or ban relating to health, 
safety or conservation in proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(ii)). As a result, 
carriers will not have to include entry information on shipping 
documentation. Existing protections of confidential business 
information under Sec.  103.35 would apply to any covered confidential 
information on the in-bond application. The release of manifest 
information is covered by Sec.  103.31. It provides the procedures for 
protecting manifest information from release and allows importers, 
consignees and shippers to claim confidential treatment for this 
information.
    Comment: Clarification should be provided regarding the utilization 
of the information required in the in-bond application, as well as CBPs 
proposed methodology to validate, store, maintain, and disseminate, 
this information.
    CBP Response: The information provided on the in-bond application 
will be used for targeting and enforcement purposes, to prevent 
smuggling and fraud, and for security purposes. The information will 
also be used to track and close the in-bond shipment. For information 
on the maintenance and dissemination of this information see the 
following Systems of Records Notices (SORNs). The SORN for ACE is 
available at: https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2006-01-19/html/E6-511.htm and was published in the Federal Register on January 19, 2006 
(71 FR 3109). ABI is covered by the ACS SORN, which is available at: 
https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2008-12-19/html/E8-29801.htm and was 
published in the Federal Register on December 19, 2008 (73 FR 77759).
    Comment: Electronic in-bond filing and tracking of shipments, 
combined with the additional data CBP will collect on these shipments, 
will provide an effective and business-friendly means to combat the 
problem of fraudulent paperwork to claim NAFTA benefits so long as the 
in-bond information can be shared with Mexico when the goods are 
shipped from the United States.
    CBP Response: This rule does not affect information sharing with 
Mexico. CBP will continue its current procedures and policies for 
sharing information with Mexico pursuant to existing agreements.
7. Definitions
    Comment: Terms commonly used in the proposed regulations, such as 
conveyance, containerized shipments, compartments, carloads, cartman, 
delivering carrier, lighterman, port cluster, import carrier, export 
carrier, transshipment and ultimate destination, should be defined to 
establish uniformity in application and meaning within the regulations.
    CBP Response: CBP does not believe it is necessary to define all 
the terms used in the proposed regulations. CBP has defined the terms 
which are essential to the proper and uniform application of the in-
bond regulations. These include Common carrier, Origination port, Port 
of destination, Port of diversion, and Port of exportation as set forth 
in proposed Sec.  18.0, and Bonded carrier, which CBP is adding.
    Comment: The proposed regulations define port of destination as the 
U.S. port at which merchandise is entered after being shipped in-bond 
from the origination port where it was entered as an immediate 
transportation entry. We believe the text should be revised to include 
other possibilities, such as admission to a foreign-trade zone and more 
than one movement under more than one bond.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that various provisions of the proposed 
in-bond regulations should apply to goods admitted to a foreign-trade 
zone and is changing various sections in Part 18 in the final rule 
(Sec. Sec.  18.20(e), 18.23(b), and 18.25(b)) to add a reference to 
admission into a foreign trade zone. In view of these changes, there is 
no need to revise the definition of ``port of destination.'' This 
approach provides CBP with flexibility and allows CBP to accurately 
describe the requirements and procedures under specific provisions.
8. Restriction of IE by Truck
    Comment: Does proposed Sec.  18.25(b) provide the port director 
with the discretion to allow the filing of the IE entry? If the port 
director does not have this discretion, this proposal would pose a 
hardship for some Canadian business located on the Canadian border

[[Page 45389]]

and on importers who participate in maquiladora operations in Mexico.
    CBP Response: CBP recognizes that there may be legitimate purposes 
for the filing of an IE entry and is changing proposed Sec.  18.25(b) 
to state that trucks ``may'' be denied a permit to proceed. This will 
provide the port director with discretion regarding whether to allow 
this process. The port director will make his or her determination on a 
case-by-case basis.
9. Express Shipments
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  18.22 is confusing. Although the heading 
refers to ``Transfer and express shipment procedures at port of 
exportation,'' paragraph (a) does not appear to cover express shipment 
procedures. Also, paragraph (a) states that if in-bond merchandise must 
be transferred to another conveyance, the procedure will be as 
prescribed in proposed Sec.  18.3(d); however, proposed Sec.  18.3(d) 
covers the transshipment of merchandise in emergency situations. CBP 
must define ``express shipment'' and clarify the meaning and intent of 
Sec.  18.3.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees that these provisions are confusing and is 
making various changes to address this issue. First, CBP is 
incorporating the title of Sec.  18.22 in the existing regulations, 
``[p]rocedures at port of exportation,'' and using the term 
``exportation'' instead of ``exit.'' Second, CBP is changing proposed 
Sec.  18.3(d) in the final rule by removing the provision for the 
removal of seals in emergency situations and changing proposed Sec.  
18.4(c) to cover the removal of seals in all situations. Concurrent 
with these changes, CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.22(a) in the 
final rule to refer to Sec. Sec.  18.3 and 18.4(c) for the procedures 
to be followed when bonded merchandise is transferred to another 
conveyance. Finally, in order to clarify what is meant by ``express 
carrier,'' CBP is changing proposed Sec.  18.22(b) by removing the term 
``express company'' and replacing it with the term ``express 
consignment carrier,'' which is defined in Sec.  128.1(a) of the 
current regulations.
10. Automated Broker Interface (ABI)
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  143.1 specifies that upon approval by CBP, 
any party may participate in ABI for other purposes, including 
transmission of protests, and applications for FTZ admission (CBP Form 
214). We note that the application for a transfer of an in-bond 
movement, which is currently included, has been omitted from this 
section. However, our interpretation is that this is the language 
authorizing the utilization of ABI by any party outside of the 
designation of customs broker, importer, or service bureau. CBP should 
preserve the current language so that it includes the filing of the in-
bond application via ABI.
    CBP Response: CBP agrees and is changing proposed Sec.  143.1 to 
include the ``filing of an in-bond application'' as one of the purposes 
for which parties may use ABI.
11. Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs)
    Comment: CBP received many comments regarding the processing and 
handling of FTZ merchandise pursuant to part 146. These comments 
addressed many substantive issues pertaining to FTZs and the procedures 
for the admission into and processing of merchandise in FTZs.
    CBP Response: CBP only proposed amending part 146 to make 
conforming changes to the proposed in-bond regulations and not to 
substantively alter the general procedures that apply for the admission 
into FTZs and the processing of FTZ merchandise. Specifically, CBP 
removed the references to the ``CBP Form 7512'' and replaced it with 
``in-bond application.'' Therefore, comments recommending substantive 
changes to the CBP regulations on FTZ processing are outside the scope 
of this rulemaking and will not be addressed.
    Comment: It is unclear in the proposed regulations what event 
triggers the relief or transfer of liability from the bond of the 
carrier. In a FTZ direct delivery authorized environment, filing of an 
admission is not required prior to delivery of the goods.
    CBP Response: The actual admission of the merchandise into the FTZ 
satisfies the carrier's in-bond obligation.
    Comment: CBP should preserve the use of the CBP Form 7512 for FTZ 
admissions until an automated solution can be developed.
    CBP Response: The processes for admitting and withdrawing 
merchandise from FTZs for purposes of filing in-bond movements is fully 
automated using QP/WP.
    Comment: Proposed Sec.  146.67 provides for the transfer of 
merchandise from a FTZ for exportation. Paragraph (b) states that 
``each transfer of merchandise to the customs territory for exportation 
at the port where the zone is located will be made under an entry for 
immediate exportation filed in an in-bond application pursuant to part 
18 . . .'' This section should state that only the owner/operator 
acting for their own account or a licensed customs broker is eligible 
to file such an entry with CBP.
    CBP Response: CBP disagrees. The parties authorized to file the in-
bond application should be the same, regardless of whether the 
merchandize is in a FTZ.
12. Importer Security Filing (ISF)
    Comment: The six-digit HTSUS code is required to be provided, if 
available, pursuant to proposed Sec.  18.1(d)(1)(i), and is also 
required to be transmitted to CBP 24 hours prior to lading in order to 
satisfy importer security filing (ISF) requirements. CBP should 
eliminate the requirement to re-transmit this data element as part of 
the in-bond application since it is already resident within CBP's 
system.
    CBP Response: One of the purposes of the in-bond regulations is to 
ensure that in-bond merchandise is properly transported in-bond before 
being entered or exported. The information CBP receives on the ISF is 
not sufficient for proper tracking and enforcement of in-bond 
requirements. First, ISF data is required only for merchandise arriving 
in the United States by vessel and not for merchandise arriving in the 
United States by rail or truck, which are also covered by this rule. 
Second, pursuant to Sec.  343(a)(3)(F) of the Trade Act of 2002, as 
amended (19 U.S.C. 2071 note), CBP can only use ISF data for limited 
purposes, i.e., for ensuring cargo safety and security, preventing 
smuggling, and commercial risk assessment targeting. Accordingly, CBP 
requires the six-digit HTSUS number as part of the in-bond application.
    Comment: CBP should restrict the in-bond information requirements 
to those additional data elements that are not already required to be 
submitted as part of the advance manifest. Duplicative transmission of 
data elements will only add to the cost of importing without yielding 
any security or commercial benefits.
    CBP Response: If the carrier electronically files both the advance 
manifest information and the in-bond application, the carrier would not 
need to provide duplicative information. Only those few additional data 
elements that were not provided with the advance manifest information 
would need to be submitted to satisfy the in-bond application 
requirements. Only in the instance where the manifest is filed by the 
carrier and the broker (or other party) files a QP movement on behalf 
of the carrier would there be duplicative information. Carriers will 
not have to file duplicative data elements, if they have already filed 
advance manifest information.
    Comment: CBP should clarify procedures in case of over-carried 
merchandise (i.e., merchandise that was shipped, but not included on 
the

[[Page 45390]]

manifest or bill of lading) for which no advance manifest and ISF were 
filed. If over-carried cargo is to be re-exported, will CBP authorize 
an in-bond without an advance manifest and ISF?
    CBP Response: CBP will authorize an in-bond transaction to re-
export overcarried merchandise for which no advance manifest and ISF 
were filed. Before filing the in-bond application, a bill of lading 
would have to be created in ACE to create the in-bond record. However, 
any applicable penalties for the overcarried merchandise would apply.
13. Redelivery
    Comment: The requirement in proposed Sec.  18.6(c) that CBP must 
demand return of the merchandise to CBP custody (no later than 30 days 
after the shortage, delivery, or nondelivery is discovered by CBP) is 
not realistic. Lean manufacturing and distribution principles 
incorporated in the mainstream activities for companies in today's 
just-in-time environment can drive the necessity for immediate response 
and action for merchandise being received at facilities daily. Often 
merchandise received at facilities before noon is introduced into 
manufacturing processes or distribution activities before close of 
business on the same day. This rapid movement and processing of cargo 
results in the inability to redeliver cargo, intact or otherwise, 
within 30 days from date of mailing, date of delivery, or demand for 
redelivery by CBP.
    CBP Response: The proposed rule is consistent with existing 
requirements regarding the redelivery of merchandise in Sec.  113.63(d) 
and current Sec.  18.6(b). The 30-day timeframe for CBP to demand 
redelivery is necessary in order to allow CBP to verify the violation 
leading to the demand for redelivery and to allow sufficient time to 
process the demand for redelivery. CBP is aware that merchandise may 
enter the stream of commerce and will strive to process demands for 
redelivery as quickly as possible.
    Comment: CBP should accept proof of the final disposition of the 
in-bond entry as full satisfaction of a demand for redelivery when a 
redelivery is requested after the in-bond transaction has completed. 
For example, if merchandise was exported prior to a demand for 
redelivery, then proof of export should satisfy the demand for 
redelivery without any penalty or liquidated damages for failure to 
redeliver. Similarly, if merchandise is entered for consumption prior 
to the request for redelivery then the consumption entry should satisfy 
the demand for redelivery without any penalty or liquidated damages for 
failure to redeliver. The bonded carrier is still responsible for the 
initial violation of the irregular delivery and liquidated damages is 
the appropriate way to penalize the bonded carrier instead of requiring 
redelivery of merchandise that has already been exported. In addition, 
language should be included allowing the acceptance of a foreign-trade 
zone admission for the full manifested quantity, unless a lesser amount 
is reported. Admission and validation by a FTZ Operator should satisfy 
the demand for redelivery of merchandise for shipments in which a 
shortage has been noted.
    CBP Response: The fact that merchandise was exported or entered for 
consumption prior to receipt of a demand for redelivery does not 
necessarily mean that liquidated damages are inappropriate. CBP 
considers whether the information provided satisfies a demand for 
redelivery and whether the assessment of liquidated damages is 
appropriate taking into account the facts and circumstance of each 
individual case.
    Comment: Will the redelivery be limited to the quantity of a 
shortage, i.e., the quantity not delivered, or will CBP have the 
authority to demand redelivery of all merchandise covered under that 
in-bond entry? The demand for redelivery should be limited to the 
merchandise involved in the violation. Once the merchandise is 
exported, the bonded carrier will have little, if any, ability to 
ensure that the merchandise is redelivered.
    CBP Response: CBP has authority to demand redelivery of all the 
merchandise covered by an in-bond entry. However, CBP will determine 
which merchandise to include in a demand for redelivery on a case-by-
case basis, taking into account the factors warranting the demand.
    Comment: In case of a shortage, will the importer or broker be able 
to add the in-bond number covering the short shipped pieces to the same 
CBP Form 3461 or will a new entry have to be filed?
    CBP Response: The importer/broker can note the change on the CBP 
Form 3461 (Entry/Immediate Delivery) or the CBP Form 7501 (Entry 
Summary), or via a post summary correction if the entry summary has 
already been filed.
    Comment: It is not clear what CBP means by a ``short shipment'' in 
proposed Sec.  18.6(a). Does it mean that a portion of the shipment 
covered by the original in-bond application did not arrive with the 
rest of the shipment? If so, short shipments would occur for routine 
multiple container in-bond shipments that cannot be shipped on a single 
truck or rail car.
    CBP Response: A short shipment means that a portion of the shipment 
covered by the in-bond application did not arrive at the port of 
destination or port of exportation. If the merchandise is transported 
in multiple conveyances, then the shipment can arrive at separate times 
without resulting in a short shipment. Typically, a short shipment 
would occur when a portion of an in-bond movement fails to arrive at 
the in-bond destination within the in-transit period.
14. Pipelines
    Comment: Currently many in-bond pipeline movements are filed via 
the QP/WP electronic filing system. Will electronic reporting for 
pipelines still be allowed? Will the weekly in-bond processes that are 
currently utilized for pipeline in-bond still be allowed under the new 
rules? Do the various compliance requirements contained in the NPRM as 
part of the move to electronic processing of in-bond movements apply to 
pipeline movements even though in-bond applications for pipeline 
shipments are not required to be submitted electronically?
    CBP Response: The amendments to the in-bond regulations will not 
affect the current procedures for in-bond shipments moving via 
pipeline. Nothing in this rule changes the current procedures and 
systems that are utilized for in-bond pipeline movements. For example, 
the in-transit time limits in this rule do not apply to in-bond 
pipeline movements; CBP is adding a sentence to proposed Sec.  
18.1(i)(1) to clarify this. Although the requirements that are related 
to the electronic filing of an in-bond application do not apply to 
pipeline movement, carriers can choose to submit electronic in-bond 
applications and subsequent updates for pipeline in-bond movements 
using QP.

III. Adoption of Proposal

    In view of the foregoing, and following careful consideration of 
the comments received and further review of the matter, CBP has 
concluded that the proposed regulations with the modifications 
discussed above should be adopted as a final rule.

IV. Regulatory Analyses

A. Executive Order 12866--Regulatory Planning and Review

    Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review; September 
30, 1993) requires Federal agencies to

[[Page 45391]]

conduct economic analyses of significant regulatory actions as a means 
to improve regulatory decision-making. Significant regulatory actions 
include those that may ``(1) [h]ave an annual effect on the economy of 
$100 million or more or adversely affect in a material way the economy, 
a sector of the economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the 
environment, public health or safety, or State, local or tribal 
governments or communities; (2) [c]reate a serious inconsistency or 
otherwise interfere with an action taken or planned by another agency; 
(3) [m]aterially alter the budgetary impact of entitlements, grants, 
user fees, or loan programs or the rights and obligations of recipients 
thereof; or (4) [r]aise novel legal or policy issues arising out of 
legal mandates, the President's priorities, or the principles set forth 
in this Executive Order.'' It has been determined that this rule is not 
a significant regulatory action.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    Under the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 as 
amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 
1996 (RFA/SBREFA) and EO 13272, titled ``Proper Consideration of Small 
Entities in Agency Rulemaking,'' agencies must consider the potential 
impact of regulations on small businesses, small governmental 
jurisdictions, and small organizations during the development of their 
rules. CBP is required to prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis and 
take other steps to assist small entities, unless the Agency certifies 
that a rule will not have a ``significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities.'' \3\ The U.S. Small Business 
Administration (SBA) provides guidelines on the analytical process to 
assess the impact of a particular rulemaking.\4\ The following summary 
presents the impact of this rule on small entities.\5\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ Regulatory Flexibility Act as amended by the Small Business 
Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act, 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.
    \4\ U.S. SBA, Office of Advocacy, ``A Guide for Government 
Agencies: How to Comply with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 
Implementing the President's Small Business Agenda and Executive 
Order 13272,'' May 2003.
    \5\ The complete ``Regulatory Flexibility Analysis and RFA'' can 
be found in the docket for this rulemaking: https://www.regulations.gov.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The types of entities subject to the rule's requirements include 
originating or bonded carriers, brokers, and other supply chain 
entities (e.g., exporters, manufacturers and suppliers, cargo 
consolidators, freight forwarders, third-party logistics providers, 
(3PLs), and container freight stations (CFSs)) involved in the 
transaction filing, conveyance, and arrivals reporting of in-bond 
goods. When finalizing a rule, if CBP is still unable to certify that a 
rule will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of 
small entities, after conducting an initial screening analysis and an 
Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA), CBP is required to 
conduct a Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (FRFA).
    Based on FY2007 in-bond shipment data, we estimate at least 6,230 
trade entities could be affected by the rule, including 5,081 non-air 
carriers (sea vessel, rail, and truck carriers), between 212 and 221 
air carriers, and possibly at least 870 other entities (e.g., freight 
forwarders, cargo consolidators, 3PLs, brokers, and CFS). The specific 
requirements of the rule (file in-bond transactions electronically, 
report in-bond arrivals electronically, provide additional data 
elements, request diversions, and meet allowable in-bond transit times) 
will affect all of these entities in some way. CBP lacks the data 
necessary to quantify the incremental cost of the rule or differentiate 
these costs by entity type, including size and nationality (many of the 
entities affected are likely foreign). Instead, we discuss these costs 
qualitatively. The following exhibit lists various alternatives CBP 
considered in developing this rule and characterizes their costs.

          Exhibit 1--Relative Costs of Regulatory Alternatives
------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Regulatory alternative         Requirements          Relative cost
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 (Chosen alternative).....  All of these five      Highest:
                              requirements are      Reason for high
                              implemented:           cost: Entities
                             1. File all in-bond     filing in-bond
                              application forms      forms and/or
                              electronically..       reporting in-bond
                             2. Additional in-bond   arrivals by paper
                              shipment data and      only (582 non-air
                              information required.  carriers plus an
                             3. Maximum in-bond      unknown number of
                              transit time of 30     other filers) would
                              days..                 have to obtain
                             4. Request and          electronic access
                              receive permission     to CBP or retain a
                              electronically prior   third party agent
                              to diverting in-bond   or service
                              cargo..                provider. All
                             5. Report in-bond       entities (5,081 non-
                              arrivals and arrival   air carriers plus
                              locations              an unknown number
                              electronically..       of other filers)
                                                     would have to
                                                     obtain and provide
                                                     additional in-bond
                                                     shipment data to
                                                     CBP by
                                                     reprogramming their
                                                     existing business
                                                     and information
                                                     systems and
                                                     processes, using a
                                                     third-party service
                                                     provider, or
                                                     relying on their
                                                     trade partners.
                                                     Those entities
                                                     reporting arrivals
                                                     (4,388 non-air
                                                     carriers plus an
                                                     unknown number of
                                                     other filers) would
                                                     have to reprogram
                                                     their existing
                                                     business and
                                                     information systems
                                                     and processes or
                                                     use a third party
                                                     service provider to
                                                     electronically
                                                     report arrival
                                                     locations.
2..........................  Only the following     Lower:
                              four requirements     Costs are lower than
                              are implemented:       Alternative #1
                             1. File all in-bond     because the costs
                              application forms      associated with
                              electronically..       obtaining and
                             2. Maximum in-bond      providing the
                              transit time of 30     additional in-bond
                              days..                 shipment data and
                             3. Request and          information would
                              receive permission     not be incurred,
                              electronically prior   which could be
                              to diverting in-bond   significant for the
                              cargo..                most frequent
                             4. Report in-bond       filers. However,
                              arrivals and arrival   overall costs could
                              locations              still be
                              electronically..       significant to
                                                     comply with the
                                                     requirement of
                                                     reporting arrival
                                                     locations.

[[Page 45392]]

 
3..........................  Only the following     Lowest:
                              three requirements    Costs are lowest of
                              are implemented:       the three
                             1. File all in-bond     regulatory
                              application forms      alternatives
                              electronically..       because only a
                             2. Maximum in-bond      relatively small
                              transit time of 30     number of entities
                              days..                 that currently file
                             3. Request and          in-bond forms by
                              receive permission     paper only (537 non-
                              electronically prior   air carriers plus
                              to diverting in-bond   an unknown number
                              cargo..                of other filers)
                                                     would be affected.
                                                     These entities must
                                                     obtain electronic
                                                     access to CBP or
                                                     retain a third
                                                     party agent or
                                                     service provider.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    To determine whether a substantial number of small entities would 
be affected by the rule, we ideally would have employment and revenue 
information and data for all affected entities. The SBA defines 
entities as ``small'' if they fall below certain size standards in 
their industry (as defined by a North American Industry Classification 
System (NAICS) Code), such as the number of employees or average annual 
receipts.\6\ However, we do not have this information, as well as 
information identifying all of the entities that may be affected.\7\ 
Other available descriptive data, such as in-bond shipment or 
transaction volume, transaction type, and whether an entity files in-
bond transactions or report in-bond arrivals, are unreliable since they 
may not necessarily be related to entity size. As a result, we use 
national data on entities in the affected industries from the SBA to 
determine whether a substantial number of small entities are likely to 
be affected by the rule. Use of these data is imperfect because not all 
entities included in the SBA data set participate in the processing and 
movement of in-bond goods. Based on these data, nearly all of the 
entities in all industry groups likely to be affected by the final rule 
are small. CBP concludes, therefore, that a substantial number of small 
entities are likely to be affected by the final rule. CBP has 
characterized but cannot estimate the potential costs to entities of 
complying with the final rule. As a result, we cannot quantify the 
impact on small entities. We, therefore, conclude that the rule may 
significantly affect a substantial number of small entities.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ U.S. SBA, Summary of Size Standards by Industry, as viewed 
at https://www.sba.gov/contractingopportunities/officials/size/summaryofssi/ on January 14, 2013. https://www.sba.gov/contractingopportunities/officials/size/summaryofssi/ on 
July 28, 2010.
    \7\ We only have limited data on 5,081 unique non-air carriers, 
which comprise at most about 82 percent of all affected entities.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Following the initial screening analysis, CBP published an IRFA, in 
accordance to Section 603 of the RFA/SBREFA, for the proposed rule on 
July 11, 2012.\8\ For the final rule, in accordance to Section 604 of 
the RFA/SBREFA, CBP has conducted a FRFA that is being published 
concurrently with the final rule and is available in the docket of this 
rulemaking.\9\ The following summary of the FRFA presents the impact of 
this rule on small entities.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ The complete IRFA can be found by searching 
www.regulations.gov for the docket number USCBP-2012-0002-0052.
    \9\ The complete FRFA Final Regulatory Flexibility Act analysis 
can be found in the docket for this rulemaking: https://www.regulations.gov.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The objective of the rule is to improve CBP's ability to regulate, 
track, and control in-bond cargo and to ensure that proper duties are 
paid or that the in-bond merchandise is exported.
    Although CBP did not receive any public comments specifically 
addressing the IRFA or the impacts to small entities, one commenter 
estimated that the new data, reporting, and monitoring requirements of 
the proposed rule will increase costs for in-bond carriers in a number 
of ways. In finalizing the proposed rule, CBP took these cost estimates 
under advisement and has made changes to the rule to lessen the burden 
and costs to the public in response to various comments. See Section 
II.M., Potential Impact, of this document and in the complete FRFA for 
more information about this comment and CBP's response.
    The Chief Counsel for the Advocacy of the Small Business 
Administration did not provide any comments on the IRFA for the 
proposed rule.
    The types of entities subject to the rule's requirements include 
originating or bonded carriers, brokers, and other supply chain 
entities (e.g., exporters, manufacturers and suppliers, cargo 
consolidators, freight forwarders, 3PLs, and CFS) involved in the 
transaction filing, conveyance, and arrivals reporting of in-bond 
goods. Based on FY2007 in-bond shipment data, we estimate at least 
6,230 trade entities could be affected by the rule, including 5,081 
non-air carriers (sea vessel, rail, and truck carriers), between 212 
and 221 air carriers, and possibly at least 940 other entities (e.g., 
freight forwarders, cargo consolidators, 3PLs, brokers, and CFS). The 
reporting and recordkeeping skills needed are professional skills 
necessary for preparation of electronic in-bond transactions, arrivals 
notifications, and diversion requests. These include basic 
administrative, recordkeeping, and information technology skills used 
to manage data transaction, shipment, manifest, security, and other 
data used in the commercial supply chain environment, along with a 
working knowledge of import shipment arrangements, brokerage, 
conveyance/shipping, consolidation, and customs procedures and 
regulation.
    Exhibit 1 above lists the regulatory alternatives CBP analyzed in 
the IRFA; including those that minimized the incremental cost burden to 
carriers, brokers, and agents, including small entities. CBP was not, 
however, able to identify any significant regulatory alternatives to 
the rule that specifically address small entities while also meeting 
the rule's objective, which is to improve CBP's ability to regulate, 
track, and control in-bond cargo and to ensure that proper duties are 
paid or that the in-bond merchandise is exported. However, in 
finalizing this rule, as detailed above and in the complete FRFA 
contained in the docket, CBP has made changes to the proposed rule, 
based on public comments that lower costs for entities affected by this 
rule, including small entities.\10\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ As discussed in the complete FRFA, not all costs could be 
quantified. As such, CBP is unable to quantify the cost savings due 
to the changes made from the proposed rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

C. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    Title II of the Unfunded Mandate Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) requires 
agencies to assess the effects of their regulatory actions on State, 
local, and tribal governments and the private sector. This rule is 
necessary for national security and is exempt from these requirements 
under 2 U.S.C. 1503

[[Page 45393]]

(Exclusions), which states that UMRA ``shall not apply to any provision 
in a bill, joint resolution, amendment, motion, or conference report 
before Congress and any provision in a proposed or final Federal 
regulation that is necessary for the national security or the 
ratification or implementation of international treaty obligations.'' 
\11\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ ``Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA),'' 2 U.S.C. 
1503.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

D. Paperwork Reduction Act

    In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L.104-
13, 44 U.S.C. 3507) the collections of information for this final rule 
are included in an existing collection for CBP Form 7512 (Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB) control number 1651-0003). An agency may 
not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a 
collection of information unless the collection of information displays 
a valid control number assigned by OMB.
    The estimated burden hours related to CBP Form 7512 and 7512A for 
OMB Control number 1651-0003 are as follows:
    Estimated Number of Respondents: 6,200.
    Estimated Number of Responses: 5,400,000
    Estimated Time per Response: 10 minutes (0.166 hours).
    Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours: 896,400.
    The burden hours in this collection have been updated to reflect 
revised and updated estimates of filers of CBP Form 7512. These most 
recent data available are also used in the regulatory flexibility 
analysis above.

V. Signing Authority

    This regulation is being issued in accordance with 19 CFR 0.1(a)(1) 
pertaining to the Secretary of the Treasury's authority (or that of his 
delegate) to approve regulations related to certain customs revenue 
functions.

VI. Regulatory Amendments

List of Subjects

19 CFR Part 4

    Customs duties and inspection, Exports, Freight, Harbors, Maritime 
carriers, Oil pollution, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
Vessels.

19 CFR Part 10

    Caribbean Basin initiative, Customs duties and inspection, Exports, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

19 CFR Part 12

    Customs duties and inspection, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

19 CFR Part 18

    Common carriers, Customs duties and inspection, Exports, Freight, 
Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, and Surety bonds.

19 CFR Part 19

    Customs duties and inspection, Exports, Freight, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Surety bonds, Warehouses, Wheat.

19 CFR Part 113

    Common carriers, Customs duties and inspection, Exports, Freight, 
Laboratories, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Surety bonds.

19 CFR Part 122

    Common carriers, Customs duties and inspection, Exports, Freight, 
Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, and Security 
measures.

19 CFR Part 123

    Canada, Customs duties and inspection, Freight, International 
boundaries, Mexico, Motor carriers, Railroads, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Vessels.

19 CFR Part 141

    Customs duties and inspection, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

19 CFR Part 142

    Canada, Customs duties and inspection, Mexico, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

19 CFR Part 143

    Customs duties and inspection, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

19 CFR Part 144

    Customs duties and inspection, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Warehouses.

19 CFR Part 146

    Administrative practice and procedure, Customs duties and 
inspection, Exports, Foreign trade zones, Penalties, Petroleum, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

19 CFR Part 151

    Cigars and cigarettes, Cotton, Customs duties and inspection, Fruit 
juices, Laboratories, Metals, Oil imports, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Sugar.

19 CFR Part 181

    Administrative practice and procedure, Canada, Customs duties and 
inspection, Exports, Imports, Mexico, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Trade agreements.

Amendments to the Regulation

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, this document amends 
parts 4, 10, 18, 19, 113, 122, 123, 141, 142, 143, 144, 146, 151, and 
181 of title 19 of the Code of Federal Regulations as set forth below.

PART 4--VESSELS IN FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC TRADES

0
1. The general authority citation for part 4 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority:  5 U.S.C. 301; 19 U.S.C. 66, 1431, 1433, 1434, 1624, 
2071 note; 46 U.S.C. 501, 60105.
* * * * *

0
2. In Sec.  4.82, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  4.82  Touching at foreign port while in coastwise trade.

* * * * *
    (b) The master must also present to the port director a coastwise 
Cargo Declaration in triplicate of the merchandise to be transported 
via the foreign port or ports to the subsequent ports in the United 
States. It must describe the merchandise and show the marks and numbers 
of the packages, the names of the shippers and consignees, and the 
destinations. The port director will certify the two copies and return 
them to the master. Merchandise carried by the vessel in bond under a 
transportation entry pursuant to part 18 of this chapter is not to be 
shown on the coastwise Cargo Declaration.
* * * * *

PART 10--ARTICLES CONDITIONALLY FREE, SUBJECT TO A REDUCED RATE, 
ETC.

0
3. The general authority citation for part 10 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority:  19 U.S.C. 66, 1202 (General Note 3(i), Harmonized 
Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS)), 1321, 1481, 1484, 
1498, 1508, 1623, 1624, 3314.


0
4. In Sec.  10.60, revise paragraphs (a), (d), and (f) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  10.60  Forms of withdrawals; bond.

    (a) Withdrawals from warehouse shall be made on CBP Form 7501. Each 
withdrawal must contain the statement prescribed for withdrawals in 
Sec.  144.32 of this chapter and all of the statistical information as 
provided in Sec.  141.61(e) of this chapter. Withdrawals from

[[Page 45394]]

continuous CBP custody elsewhere than in a bonded warehouse must be 
made by filing an in-bond application pursuant to part 18 of this 
chapter, except as provided for by paragraph (h) of this section. When 
a withdrawal of supplies or other articles is made which may be used on 
a vessel while it is proceeding in ballast to another port as provided 
for by Sec.  10.59(a)(3), a notation of this fact shall be made on the 
withdrawal and the name of the other port given if known.
* * * * *
    (d) Except as otherwise provided in Sec.  10.62b, relating to 
withdrawals from warehouse of aircraft turbine fuel to be used within 
30 days of such withdrawal as supplies on aircraft under section 309, 
Tariff Act of 1930, as amended, when the supplies are to be laden at a 
port other than the port of withdrawal from warehouse, they shall be 
withdrawn for transportation in bond to the port of lading by filing an 
in-bond application pursuant to part 18 of this chapter. The procedure 
shall be the same as that prescribed in 144.37 of this chapter.
* * * * *
    (f) Unless transfer is permitted under the provisions of paragraph 
(h) of this section, when articles are withdrawn from continuous 
Customs custody elsewhere than in a bonded warehouse for lading at the 
port of withdrawal, the procedure provided for in Sec.  18.25 of this 
chapter shall be followed. Unless transfer is permitted under the 
provisions of paragraph (h) of this section, when articles are 
withdrawn from continuous Customs custody elsewhere than in a bonded 
warehouse for lading at another port, the procedure set forth in Sec.  
18.26 of this chapter shall be followed. There shall be such 
examination of the articles as may be necessary to satisfy the port 
director that they are subject to the privileges of section 309, Tariff 
Act of 1930, as amended, and that the value and quantity declared for 
them are correct.
* * * * *

0
5. Revise Sec.  10.61 to read as follows:


Sec.  10.61  Withdrawal permit.

    Upon the filing of the withdrawal and the execution of the bond, 
when required, the port director shall issue a permit on CBP Form 7501 
or in-bond application.

PART 12--SPECIAL CLASSES OF MERCHANDISE

0
6. The general authority citation for part 12 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority:  5 U.S.C. 301; 19 U.S.C. 66, 1202 (General Note 3(i), 
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS)), 1624.


0
7. Revise Sec.  12.5 to read as follows:


Sec.  12.5  Shipment to other ports.

    When imported merchandise, the subject of Sec.  12.1, is shipped to 
another port for reconditioning or exportation, such shipment must be 
made in the same manner as shipments in bond in accordance with the 
requirements of part 18 of this chapter.

0
8. In Sec.  12.11, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  12.11  Requirements for entry and release.

* * * * *
    (b) Where plant or plant products are shipped from the port of 
first arrival to another port or place for inspection or other 
treatment by a representative of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service, Plant Protection and Quarantine Programs and all CBP 
requirements for the release of the merchandise have been met, the 
merchandise must be forwarded as an in-bond shipment pursuant to part 
18 of this chapter to the representative of the Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, Plant Protection and Quarantine Programs at the 
place at which the inspection or other treatment is to take place. No 
further release by the port director will be required.

0
9. Revise part 18 to read as follows:

PART 18--TRANSPORTATION IN BOND AND MERCHANDISE IN TRANSIT

Subpart A--General Provisions
Sec.
18.0 Scope; definitions.
18.1 In-bond application and entry; general rules.
18.2 Carriers, cartmen, and lightermen.
18.3 Transfers.
18.4 Sealing conveyances, compartments, and containers.
18.5 Diversion.
18.6 Short shipments; shortages; entry and allowance.
18.7 Lading for exportation; notice and proof of exportation; 
verification.
18.8 Liability for not meeting in-bond requirements; liquidated 
damages; payment of taxes, duties, fees, and charges.
18.9 New in-bond movement for forwarded or returned merchandise.
18.10 Special manifest.
Subpart B--Immediate Transportation Without Appraisement
18.11 General rules.
18.12 Entry at port of destination.
Subpart C--Shipment of Baggage In-Bond
18.13 Procedure; manifest.
18.14 Shipment of baggage in transit to foreign countries.
Subpart D--Transportation and Exportation
18.20 General rules.
18.21 [Reserved].
18.22 Procedure at port of exportation.
18.23 Change of port of exportation or first foreign port; change of 
entry.
18.24 Retention of goods within port limits; dividing of shipments.
Subpart E--Immediate Exportation
18.25 Direct exportation.
18.26 Indirect exportation.
18.27 Port marks.
Subpart F--Merchandise Transported by Pipeline
18.31 Pipeline transportation of bonded merchandise.
Subpart G--Merchandise Not Otherwise Subject to CBP Control Exported 
Under Cover of a TIR Carnet
18.41 Applicability.
18.42 Direct exportation.
18.43 Indirect exportation.
18.44 Abandonment of exportation.
18.45 Supervision of exportation.
Subpart H--Importer Security Filings
18.46 Changes to Importer Security Filing information.

    Authority:  5 U.S.C. 301; 19 U.S.C. 66, 1202 (General Note 3(i), 
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States), 1551, 1552, 1553, 
1623, 1624; Section 18.1 also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1484, 1557, 
1490; Section 18.2 also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1551a; Section 18.3 
also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1565; Section 18.4 also issued under 19 
U.S.C. 1322, 1323; Section 18.7 also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1490, 
1557; 1646a; Section 18.11 also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1484; Section 
18.12 also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1448, 1484, 1490; Section 18.13 
also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1498(a); Section 18.14 also issued under 
19 U.S.C. 1498. Section 18.25 also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1490. 
Section 18.26 also issued under 19 U.S.C. 1490. Section 18.31 also 
issued under 19 U.S.C. 1553a.

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec.  18.0  Scope; definitions.

    (a) Scope. Except as provided in parts 122 (Air commerce) and 123 
(CBP relations with Canada and Mexico) of this chapter, this part sets 
forth the requirements and procedures pertaining to the transportation 
of merchandise in-bond, as authorized by Sec. Sec.  551, 552, and 553 
of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (19 U.S.C 1551, 1552, and 1553).
    (b) Definitions. As used in this part, the following terms will 
have the meanings indicated unless either the context in which they are 
used requires a different meaning or a different

[[Page 45395]]

definition is prescribed for a particular part or portion thereof:
    Bonded carrier. ``Bonded carrier'' means a carrier of merchandise 
whose bond under Sec.  113.63 of this chapter is obligated for the 
transportation and delivery of merchandise.
    Common carrier. ``Common carrier'' means a common carrier of 
merchandise owning or operating a railroad, steamship, pipeline, truck 
line, or other transportation line or route.
    Origination port. ``Origination port'' is the U.S. port at which 
the transportation of merchandise in-bond commences.
    Port of destination. ``Port of destination'' is the U.S. port at 
which merchandise is delivered after being shipped in-bond from the 
origination port where it was entered as an immediate transportation 
entry.
    Port of diversion. ``Port of diversion'' is the U.S. port to which 
merchandise is diverted while in transit from the origination port to 
the port of destination or the port of exportation.
    Port of exportation. ``Port of exportation'' is the U.S. port at 
which in-bond merchandise entered for transportation and exportation or 
for immediate exportation is delivered for exportation from the United 
States.


Sec.  18.1  In-bond application and entry; general rules.

    (a) General requirement. In order to transport merchandise in-bond 
(transport imported merchandise, secured by a bond, from one port to 
another prior to the appraisement of the merchandise and without the 
payment of duties), an in-bond application as described in paragraph 
(d) of this section is required. An in-bond application consists of a 
transportation entry and a manifest. A transportation entry as 
described in paragraph (b) of this section may be made for any imported 
merchandise upon its arrival at a port of entry, subject to the 
prohibitions and restrictions provided in this part.
    (b) Types of transportation entries and withdrawals. The following 
types of transportation entries and withdrawals may be made for 
merchandise to be transported in-bond:
    (1) Entry for immediate transportation (IT).
    (2) Warehouse withdrawal for immediate transportation.
    (3) Warehouse withdrawal for immediate exportation or for 
transportation and exportation.
    (4) Entry for transportation and exportation (T&E).
    (5) Entry for immediate exportation (IE).
    (6) Entry of vessel and aircraft supplies for immediate exportation 
(IE).
    (7) Entry of vessel and aircraft supplies for transportation and 
exportation (T&E).
    (c) Who may file. A transportation entry may be filed by:
    (1) The carrier, or authorized agent of the carrier, that brings 
the merchandise to the origination port;
    (2) The carrier, or authorized agent of the carrier, that is to 
accept the merchandise under its bond or a carnet for transportation to 
the port of destination or the port of exportation; or
    (3) Any person or the authorized agent of any person, who has a 
sufficient interest in the merchandise as shown by the bill of lading 
or manifest, a certificate of the importing carrier (such as a power of 
attorney or letter of authorization), or by any other document. CBP may 
request evidence to demonstrate sufficient interest.
    (d) In-bond application. An in-bond application consisting of a 
transportation entry and manifest must be transmitted to CBP via a CBP-
approved EDI system as specified in paragraph (d)(2) of this section in 
order to transport merchandise in-bond.
    (1) Contents. Except for the other identifying information 
described in paragraph (d)(1)(iii) of this section which is optional, 
the in-bond application must contain the following information:
    (i) Commodity HTSUS number. The six-digit Harmonized Tariff 
Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) number of the merchandise must be 
provided.
    (ii) Description of merchandise subject to regulation by another 
government agency. Merchandise subject to regulation by a U.S. 
government agency other than CBP must contain a sufficient description 
of the merchandise to enable the agency concerned to determine the 
contents of the shipment.
    (iii) Other identifying information. If a visa, permit, license, 
entry number, or other similar number or identifying information has 
been issued by the U.S. Government, foreign government or other issuing 
authority, relating to the merchandise, the visa, permit, license, 
entry number, or other similar number or identifying information may be 
provided.
    (iv) Quantity. The quantity of the cargo laden aboard the 
conveyance must be provided. This means the quantity of the smallest 
external packing unit. Containers and pallets do not constitute 
acceptable information. For example, a container holding 10 pallets 
with 200 cartons should be described as 200 cartons. If the reported 
quantity is not correct or if it changes, the in-bond record must be 
updated or amended in accordance with paragraph (h) of this section. 
The updating of the quantity of the merchandise does not relieve the 
carrier whose bond is obligated from liquidated damages for any 
shortage.
    (v) Container number and seals. The container number of the 
container in which the merchandise is being transported and the seal 
number of the seal that seals the container (see Sec.  18.4) must be 
provided. If the seal number is not known when the in-bond application 
is filed, the in-bond application must be updated with the seal number 
within two business days from the date the initial carrier takes 
possession of the sealed merchandise.
    (vi) Destination. For IT shipments, the port of destination in the 
United States must be provided. For T&E and IE shipments, the port of 
exportation and the first foreign port must be provided. If any of this 
information changes, the in-bond record must be updated or amended in 
accordance with paragraph (h) of this section.
    (2) Method of submission. The in-bond application must be 
electronically transmitted to CBP via a CBP-approved EDI system, except 
as described in Sec.  18.31 relating to the in-bond transportation of 
merchandise by pipeline, or air (see 19 CFR part 122) or under a TIR 
carnet (see 19 CFR part 115). In the event that EDI functionality is 
unavailable for filing an in-bond application, or any related in-bond 
filing, the Commissioner or his designee may authorize an alternative 
method.
    (3) Timing. The in-bond application may be submitted at any time 
prior to the merchandise departing the origination port.
    (e) Bond required. A custodial bond on CBP Form 301, containing the 
bond conditions set forth in Sec.  113.63 of this chapter, is required 
in order to transport merchandise in-bond under the provisions of this 
part.
    (f) Movement authorization required. Authorization from CBP is 
required before merchandise can be transported in-bond. Authorization 
for the movement of merchandise will be transmitted by CBP via a CBP-
approved EDI system.
    (g) Supervision--(1) Generally. When merchandise is delivered to a 
bonded carrier for transportation in-bond, CBP may, in its discretion, 
require that the merchandise be laden on the conveyance only under CBP 
supervision.
    (2) Merchandise delivered from warehouse. When merchandise is 
delivered from a warehouse to a bonded carrier for transportation in-
bond, supervision of lading will be accomplished in accordance with the

[[Page 45396]]

procedure set forth in Sec.  19.6(b) of this chapter.
    (3) Merchandise delivered from foreign trade zone. When merchandise 
is delivered from a foreign trade zone to a bonded carrier for 
transportation in-bond, supervision of lading will be accomplished in 
accordance with the procedure set forth in Sec.  146.71(a) of this 
chapter.
    (h) Updating and amending the in-bond record. The filer of the in-
bond application or any other party named in paragraph (c) of this 
section, with authorization of the party whose bond is obligated, must 
update and/or amend the in-bond record as required under the provisions 
of this part via a CBP-approved EDI system. The in-bond record must be 
updated or amended within two business days of the event that requires 
updating and/or amending of the in-bond record.
    (i) In-transit time--(1) Maximum in-transit time. Except for 
merchandise to be transported via barge, merchandise to be transported 
in-bond must be delivered to CBP at the port of destination or port of 
exportation within 30 days from the date of conveyance arrival at the 
origination port (if the in-bond application has been received and 
approved prior to conveyance arrival), or the date CBP provides 
movement authorization to the in-bond applicant, whichever is later. 
Merchandise to be transported via barge for all or part of the in-bond 
movement, must be delivered to CBP at the port of destination or port 
of exportation within 60 days from the date of conveyance arrival at 
the origination port (if the in-bond application has been received and 
approved prior to conveyance arrival), or the date CBP provides 
movement authorization to the in-bond applicant, whichever is later. If 
the merchandise is subject to examination or inspection by CBP or 
another government agency, the time that the merchandise is held due to 
the examination or inspection will not be considered part of the 30-day 
or 60-day in-transit time. Neither the diversion to another port nor 
the filing of a new in-bond application extends the maximum in-transit 
time. Failure to deliver the merchandise within the prescribed period 
constitutes an irregular delivery. In-bond merchandise transported by 
pipeline is not subject to the time limits in this section.
    (2) Extension of in-transit time. The in-transit requirement may be 
extended by CBP upon a written request to the port director of the port 
of destination or port of exportation. The decision to extend the in-
transit time period is within the discretion of CBP. Factors that may 
be considered, among any others deemed applicable by CBP, include 
extraordinary circumstances such as major transportation network 
disruptions, natural disasters, and other emergencies beyond the 
control of the party requesting the extension.
    (3) Restriction of in-transit time. CBP or any other government 
agency with jurisdiction over the merchandise may shorten the in-
transit time to less than 30 or 60 days. CBP will provide notice of a 
government-shortened in-transit time with the movement authorization.
    (j) Report of arrival. Within two business days after the arrival 
of any portion of an in-bond shipment at the port of destination or the 
port of exportation, CBP must be notified via a CBP-approved EDI system 
that the merchandise has arrived. The notification must include the 
Facilities Information and Resources Management System (FIRMS) code of 
the location of the merchandise within the port. Failure to report the 
arrival or the FIRMS code for the physical location of the merchandise 
transported in-bond within the prescribed period constitutes an 
irregular delivery.
    (k) General order merchandise; exportation. Any merchandise covered 
by an in-bond shipment that has arrived at the port of destination or 
the port of exportation must be entered, exported, or admitted to a 
foreign-trade zone pursuant to this part within 15 calendar days from 
the date of arrival of the entire in-bond shipment at the port of 
destination or port of exportation. Sixteen days after in-bond 
merchandise arrives in the port of destination or port of exportation, 
the merchandise will become subject to general order requirements 
pursuant to Sec.  4.37, Sec.  122.50, or Sec.  123.10 of this chapter, 
as applicable.
    (l) Special classes of merchandise--(1) Health, safety and 
conservation. CBP may determine that merchandise not in compliance with 
an applicable rule, regulation, law, standard or ban, relating to 
health, safety or conservation, will not be released for transportation 
in-bond without the authorization of the governmental agency 
administering such rule, regulation, law, standard or ban.
    (2) Plants and plant products. Merchandise subject upon importation 
to examination, disinfection, or further treatment under the USDA 
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Plant Protection 
and Quarantine program, will only be released for transportation in-
bond with the authorization of APHIS under regulations issued by that 
program. (See Sec. Sec.  12.10 to 12.15 of this chapter).
    (3) Prohibited articles. Articles prohibited admission into the 
commerce of the United States may not be entered for transportation in-
bond. Any such merchandise offered for entry for that purpose may 
either be denied entry or be seized. However, CBP may permit 
exportation or transportation and exportation either with authorization 
from the governmental agency having regulatory authority over the 
prohibited articles or in compliance with the regulations of such 
agency.
    (4) Narcotics and other drugs, medicines, or chemicals--(i) 
Narcotics. Narcotics prohibited admission into the commerce of the 
United States may not be entered for transportation in-bond and any 
such merchandise offered for entry for that purpose will be seized, 
except that exportation or transportation and exportation may be 
permitted with authorization from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) 
and/or compliance with the regulations of the DEA.
    (ii) Other drugs, medicines, or chemicals. Articles entered for 
transportation in-bond that are manifested merely as drugs, medicines, 
or chemicals, without evidence to satisfy the port director that they 
are non-narcotic, will be detained and subjected, at the carrier's risk 
and expense, to such examination as may be necessary to satisfy the 
port director that they are not of a narcotic character. A properly 
verified certificate of the shipper, specifying the items in the 
shipment and stating that they are not narcotic, may be accepted by the 
port director to establish the character of such a shipment.
    (5) Explosives. Explosives may not be transported in-bond unless 
the importer has first obtained a license or permit from the proper 
governmental agency. In such case the explosives may be entered for 
immediate transportation, for transportation and exportation, or for 
immediate exportation as specified by the approving government agency. 
Governmental agencies with regulatory authority over explosives include 
the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the 
Department of Transportation (DOT), and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).
    (6) Livestock. Carload shipments of livestock will not be entered 
for in-bond transportation unless they will arrive at the port of 
destination named in the in-bond application before it becomes 
necessary to remove the seals for the purpose of watering and feeding 
the animals, or unless the route is such that the removal of the seals 
and the watering, feeding, and reloading of the

[[Page 45397]]

stock may be done under CBP supervision.
    (m) Divided shipments. After reaching the destination port, the 
port to which the merchandise has been diverted under Sec.  18.5(a), 
in-bond merchandise may be divided into multiple shipments with a 
portion of the initial in-bond shipment being entered for consumption 
or warehouse, and the remainder shipped under a new in-bond 
application. The carrier or any of the parties named in paragraph (c) 
of this section must, in accordance with the filing requirements of 
this section, submit a new in-bond application for each portion of the 
original shipment to be transported in-bond. Divided shipments for 
merchandise being transported under cover of a carnet are prohibited.


Sec.  18.2  Carriers, cartmen, and lightermen.

    (a) Transportation of merchandise in-bond by bonded carriers--(1) 
Generally. Except as provided for in paragraph (b) of this section, 
merchandise to be transported from one port to another in the United 
States in-bond must be delivered to a common carrier, contract carrier, 
freight forwarder, or private carrier, each of which must be bonded for 
that purpose. Such merchandise delivered to a bonded common carrier, 
contract carrier, or freight forwarder may be transported with the use 
of facilities of other bonded or non-bonded carriers; however, the 
responsibility for the merchandise will remain with the common carrier, 
contract carrier, or freight forwarder that obligated its bond for that 
purpose. Only vessels entitled to engage in the coastwise trade (see 
Sec.  4.80 of this chapter) will be entitled to transport merchandise 
under this section.
    (2) Merchandise transported under a TIR carnet. Merchandise to be 
transported from one port to another in the United States under cover 
of a TIR carnet (see part 114 of this chapter), except merchandise not 
otherwise subject to CBP control, as provided in Sec. Sec.  18.41 
through 18.45, must be delivered to a common carrier or contract 
carrier bonded for that purpose, but the merchandise thereafter may be 
transported with the use of other bonded or non-bonded common or 
contract carriers. The TIR carnet will be responsible for liability 
incurred in the carriage of merchandise under the carnet, and the 
carrier's bond will be responsible as provided in Sec.  114.22(c) of 
this chapter.
    (3) Merchandise transported under an A.T.A. or a TECRO/AIT carnet. 
Merchandise to be transported from one port to another in the United 
States under cover of an A.T.A. or TECRO/AIT carnet (see part 114 of 
this chapter) must be delivered to a common carrier or contract carrier 
bonded for that purpose, but the merchandise thereafter may be 
transported with the use of other bonded or non-bonded common or 
contract carriers. The A.T.A. or TECRO/AIT carnet will be responsible 
for liability incurred in the carriage of merchandise under the carnet, 
and the carrier's bond will be responsible as provided in Sec.  
114.22(d) of this chapter.
    (b) Transportation of merchandise in-bond between certain ports by 
bonded cartmen or lighterman. Pursuant to Public Resolution 108, of 
June 19, 1936, (19 U.S.C. 1551, 1551a) and subject to compliance with 
all other applicable provisions of this part, CBP, upon the request of 
a party named in Sec.  18.1(c), may permit merchandise that has been 
entered and subject to CBP examination to be transported in-bond 
between the ports of New York, Newark, and Perth Amboy, by bonded 
cartmen or lightermen duly qualified in accordance with the provisions 
of part 112 of this chapter, if CBP is satisfied that the 
transportation of such merchandise in this manner will not endanger the 
revenue and does not pose a risk to health, safety or security.


Sec.  18.3  Transfers.

    (a) Transfer to another conveyance. Merchandise being transported 
in-bond may be transferred to another conveyance at any time. CBP 
notification is not required. The transfer to one or more conveyances 
will not extend the maximum in-transit time set forth in Sec.  18.1(i).
    (b) Transfer to another bonded carrier. Except as provided in Sec.  
18.31(d)(3), when merchandise is transferred to a bonded carrier that 
assumes the liability for the in-bond shipment, a report of arrival for 
the merchandise must be filed by the original bonded carrier and a new 
in-bond application must be filed by the subsequent bonded carrier 
pursuant to Sec.  18.1.
    (c) Transfer of merchandise covered by a TIR Carnet generally 
prohibited. Merchandise covered by a TIR carnet may not be transferred 
except in cases in which the unlading of the merchandise from a 
container or road vehicle is necessitated by casualty en route. In the 
event of transfer, a TIR approved container or road vehicle must be 
used if available. If the transfer takes place under CBP supervision, 
the CBP officer must execute a certificate of transfer on the 
appropriate TIR carnet voucher.
    (d) Transfer by bonded cartmen. All transfers to or from the 
conveyance or warehouse of merchandise being transported in-bond must 
be made under the provisions of part 125 of this chapter and at the 
expense of the parties in interest, unless the bond of the carrier on 
CBP Form 301, containing the bond conditions set forth in Sec.  113.63 
of this chapter or a TIR carnet, is liable for the safekeeping and 
delivery of the merchandise while it is being transferred.


Sec.  18.4  Sealing conveyances, compartments, and containers.

    (a) Requirements, waiver, and TIR carnets--(1) Seals required. 
Conveyance, compartments, or containers transporting in-bond 
merchandise must be sealed and the seals must remain intact until the 
merchandise arrives at the port of destination or the port of 
exportation. The seals to be used and the method for sealing 
conveyances, compartments, or containers must meet the requirements of 
Sec. Sec.  24.13 and 24.13a of this chapter.
    (2) Waiver. (i) CBP may waive the sealing of a conveyance, 
compartment, or container in which bonded merchandise is transported if 
CBP determines that the sealing of the conveyance, compartment, or 
container is unnecessary to protect the revenue or to prevent 
violations of the customs laws and regulations.
    (ii) Examples of situations where CBP may waive the waiver of the 
sealing requirement are when the conveyance, compartment, or container 
cannot be effectively sealed, as in the case of merchandise shipped in 
open cars or barges or on the decks of vessels, when it is known that 
any seals would necessarily be removed outside the jurisdiction of the 
United States for the purpose of discharging or taking on cargo, or 
when it is known that the breaking of the seals will be necessary to 
ventilate the hatches.
    (3) TIR carnets. The port director will cause a CBP seal to be 
affixed to a container or road vehicle that is being used to transport 
merchandise under cover of a TIR carnet unless the container or road 
vehicle bears a customs seal (domestic or foreign). The port director 
will likewise cause a CBP seal or label to be affixed to heavy or bulky 
goods being so transported. If, however, the port director has reason 
to believe that there is a discrepancy between the merchandise listed 
on the Goods Manifest of the carnet and the merchandise that is to be 
transported, the port director may cause a CBP seal or label to be 
affixed only when the

[[Page 45398]]

listing of the merchandise in the carnet and a physical inventory 
agree.
    (b) Commingled merchandise--(1) Transported in a sealed conveyance, 
compartment, or container. Merchandise that is not covered by a bond 
may be transported in a sealed conveyance, compartment, or container 
that contains bonded merchandise if the merchandise is destined for the 
same or subsequent port as the bonded merchandise.
    (2) Transported in a conveyance, compartment, or container that is 
not sealed. Merchandise that is not covered by a bond may be 
transported with bonded merchandise in a conveyance, compartment, or 
container that is not sealed, if the in-bond merchandise is corded and 
sealed, or affixed with a warning label or tag as described in 
paragraph (b)(3) of this section.
    (3) Warning label or tag--(i) Warning label. The required warning 
label for in-bond merchandise described in paragraph (b)(2) of this 
section, must be on bright red paper, not less than 5 by 8 inches in 
size, unless the size of the package renders the use of a 5 by 8 inch 
warning label impracticable because of lack of space; then a 3 by 5 
inch label may be used. Alternatively, a high visibility, permanently 
affixed warning label, whether as a continuous series in tape form or 
otherwise, but not less than 1\1/2\ by 3 inches, and not to be removed 
until the in-bond movement is completed, may be used on any size 
package. The warning label must contain the following words in black or 
white lettering of a conspicuous size:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

    This package is under bond and must be delivered intact to the 
CBP officer in charge at the port of destination or to such other 
place as authorized by CBP.
    Warning. Two years' imprisonment, a fine, or both, is the 
penalty for unlawful removal of this package or any of its contents.

    (ii) Tag. When it is impossible to attach the warning label by 
pasting, a bright red shipping tag of convenient size, large enough to 
be conspicuous and containing the same legend as the label, shall be 
used in lieu of a label. Such tag shall be wired or otherwise securely 
fastened to the packages in such manner as not to damage the 
merchandise.
    (4) Merchandise transported under carnet. Merchandise moving under 
cover of a carnet may not be consolidated with other merchandise.
    (c) Removal and replacement of seals. If it becomes necessary at 
any point in transit to remove seals from a conveyance, compartment, or 
container containing bonded merchandise for the purpose of transferring 
its contents to another conveyance, compartment, or container, or to 
gain access to the shipment because of casualty or for other good 
reason, such as when required by law enforcement or another government 
agency, a responsible agent of the carrier may remove the seals, 
supervise the transfer or handling of the merchandise, and seal the 
conveyance, compartment, or container in which the shipment goes 
forward. Updated seal numbers must be transmitted to CBP pursuant to 
Sec.  18.1(h) and general recordkeeping requirements under 19 CFR part 
163 apply.
    (d) Containers or road vehicles accepted for transport under 
customs seal; requirements. (1)(i) Containers covered by the Customs 
Convention on Containers. Containers covered by the Customs Convention 
on Containers will be accepted for transport under customs seal if:
    (A) Durably marked with the name and address of the owner, 
particulars of tare, and identification marks and numbers, and
    (B) Constructed and equipped as outlined in Annex 1 to the Customs 
Convention on Containers, as evidenced by an accompanying unexpired 
certificate of approval in the form prescribed by Annex 2 to that 
Convention or by a metal plate showing design type approval by a 
competent authority.
    (ii) Containers carrying merchandise covered by a TIR carnet. 
Containers carrying merchandise covered by a TIR carnet will be 
accepted for transport under customs seal if:
    (A) Durably marked with the name and address of the owner, 
particulars of tare, and identification marks and numbers,
    (B) Constructed and equipped as outlined in Annex 6 to the TIR 
Convention, as evidenced by an accompanying unexpired certificate of 
approval in the form prescribed by Annex 8 to that Convention, or by a 
metal plate showing design type approval by a competent authority, and
    (C) If the container or road vehicle hauling the container has 
affixed to it a rectangular plate bearing the letters ``TIR'' in 
accordance with Article 31 of the TIR Convention.
    (2) Road vehicles carrying merchandise covered by a TIR carnet. 
Road vehicles carrying merchandise covered by a TIR carnet will be 
accepted for transport under customs seal if:
    (i) Durably marked with the name and address of the owner, 
particulars of tare, and identification marks and numbers,
    (ii) Constructed and equipped as outlined in Annex 3 to the TIR 
Convention, as evidenced by an accompanying unexpired certificate of 
approval in the form prescribed by Annex 5 to that Convention, or by a 
metal plate showing design type approval by a competent authority, and
    (iii) If the road vehicle has affixed to it a rectangular plate 
bearing the letters ``TIR'' in accordance with Article 31 of the TIR 
Convention.
    (3) CBP refusal. The port director may refuse to accept for 
transport under customs seal a container or road vehicle bearing 
evidence of approval if, in the port director's opinion, the container 
or road vehicle no longer meets the requirements of the applicable 
Convention.
    (4) CBP acceptance for transport. Containers or road vehicles that 
are not approved under the provisions of a Customs Convention may be 
accepted for transport under customs seal only if the port director at 
the origination port is satisfied that the container or road vehicle 
can be effectively sealed and no goods can be removed from or 
introduced into the container or road vehicle without obvious damage to 
it or without breaking the seal. A container or road vehicle so 
accepted shall not carry merchandise covered by a TIR carnet.


Sec.  18.5  Diversion.

    (a) Procedure. In order to change the port of destination or the 
port of exportation of an in-bond movement, the filer of the in-bond 
application must submit a request to divert merchandise via a CBP-
approved EDI system. Permission for the diversion and movement of 
merchandise will be transmitted via a CBP-approved EDI system. If the 
request to divert merchandise is denied, such merchandise must be 
delivered to the original port of destination or port of exportation 
that was named in the in-bond application. The decision to grant or 
deny permission to divert merchandise is within the discretion of CBP. 
Denials may result from, for example, restrictions placed upon the 
movement of goods by government agencies.
    (b) In-transit time. The approval of a request to divert 
merchandise for transportation in-bond does not extend the in-transit 
time specified in Sec.  18.1(i)(1) of this part. The diverted 
merchandise must be delivered to the port of diversion within the in-
transit time specified in Sec.  18.1(i)(1) from the date CBP first 
authorized the in-bond movement, unless an extension is granted 
pursuant to Sec.  18.1(i)(2).
    (c) Diversion of cargo subject to restriction, prohibition or 
regulation by

[[Page 45399]]

other federal agency or authority. Merchandise subject to a law, 
regulation, rule, standard or ban that requires permission or 
authorization by another federal agency or authority before importation 
may be restricted from being diverted on behalf of the authorizing 
agency.


Sec.  18.6  Short shipments; shortages; entry and allowance.

    (a) Notification of short shipment. When an in-bond shipment 
arrives at the port of destination or the port of exportation and the 
cargo covered by the original in-bond application is short, the 
arriving carrier must notify CBP of the shortage when submitting the 
notice of arrival via a CBP-approved EDI system.
    (b) New in-bond application required. The carrier or any of the 
parties named in Sec.  18.1(c) must, in accordance with the filing 
requirements of Sec.  18.1, submit a new in-bond application to 
transport short shipped packages that have been located or recovered to 
the port of destination or port of exportation provided in the in-bond 
application. Reference must be made in the new in-bond application to 
the original transportation entry.
    (c) Demand for redelivery; entry. When a shipment or a portion of a 
shipment is not delivered, or when delivery is to an unauthorized 
location or is delivered to the consignee without the permission of 
CBP, CBP may demand return (redelivery) of the merchandise to CBP 
custody. The demand must be made no later than 30 days after the 
shortage, delivery, or failure to deliver is discovered by CBP. The 
demand for the redelivery of the merchandise to CBP custody must be 
made to the bonded carrier, cartman, or lighterman identified in the 
in-bond application. The demand for the redelivery of the merchandise 
will be made on CBP Form 4647, Notice of Redelivery, other appropriate 
form or letter, or by an electronic equivalent thereof. A copy of the 
demand or electronic equivalent thereof, with the date of mailing or 
delivery noted thereon, must be retained by the port director and made 
part of the in-bond entry record. Entry of the merchandise may be 
accepted if the merchandise can be recovered intact without any of the 
packages having been opened. In such cases, any shortage from the 
invoice quantity will be presumed to have occurred while the 
merchandise was in the possession of the bonded carrier.
    (d) Failure to redeliver; entry. If the merchandise cannot be 
recovered intact, entry will be accepted in accordance with Sec.  141.4 
of this chapter for the full manifested quantity, unless a lesser 
amount is otherwise permitted in accordance with subpart A of part 158. 
Except as provided in paragraph (e) of this section, if the merchandise 
is not returned to CBP custody within 30 days of the date of mailing of 
the demand for redelivery, if mailed, or within 30 days of the date of 
transmission, if transmitted by a method other than by mail, there 
shall be sent to the party whose bond is obligated on the 
transportation entry a demand for liquidated damages on CBP Form 5955-
A. CBP will also seek the payment of duties, taxes, and fees, where 
appropriate, pursuant to Sec.  18.8(c).
    (e) Failure to redeliver merchandise covered by a carnet. If 
merchandise covered by a carnet cannot be recovered intact as specified 
in paragraph (c) of this section, entry will not be accepted; there 
will be sent to the appropriate guaranteeing association a demand for 
liquidated damages, duties, and taxes as prescribed in Sec.  18.8(d); 
and, if appropriate, there will also be sent to the initial bonded 
carrier a demand for any excess, as provided in Sec.  114.22(e) of this 
chapter. Demands must be made on the forms specified in paragraph (d) 
of this section.
    (f) Allowance. An allowance in duty on merchandise reported short 
at destination, including merchandise found by the appraising officer 
to be damaged and worthless, and animals and birds found by the 
discharging officer to be dead on arrival at destination, must be made 
in in accordance with law.
    (g) Rail and seatrain. In the case of shipments arriving in the 
United States by rail or seatrain, which are forwarded under CBP in-
bond seals under the provisions of subpart D of part 123 of this 
chapter, and Sec.  18.11, or Sec.  18.20, a notation must be made by 
the carrier or shipper in the in-bond application, to show whether the 
shipment was transferred to the car designated in the manifest and 
whether it was laden in the car in the foreign country. If laden on the 
car in a foreign country, the country must be identified in the 
notation.


Sec.  18.7  Lading for exportation; notice and proof of exportation; 
verification.

    (a) Exportation--(1) Notice. Within two business days after the 
arrival at the port of exportation of any portion of an in-bond 
shipment, CBP must be notified via a CBP approved EDI of the arrival of 
the merchandise pursuant to Sec.  18.1(j). Failure to report the 
arrival of bonded merchandise within the prescribed period will 
constitute an irregular delivery.
    (2) Time to export. Within 15 calendar days after arrival of the 
last portion of a shipment arriving at the port of exportation under a 
transportation and exportation entry, the entire shipment of 
merchandise must be exported. On the 16th day the merchandise will 
become subject to general order requirements under Sec.  4.37, Sec.  
122.50, or Sec.  123.10 of this chapter, as applicable.
    (3) Notice and proof of exportation. Within two business days after 
exportation, the in-bond record must be updated via a CBP approved EDI 
system to reflect that the merchandise has been exported. The principal 
on any bond filed to guarantee exportation may be required by the port 
director to provide evidence of exportation in accordance with Sec.  
113.55 of this chapter.
    (b) Supervision. The port director will require such supervision of 
the lading for exportation of merchandise covered by an entry or 
withdrawal for exportation or for transportation and exportation only 
as is reasonably necessary to satisfy the port director that the 
merchandise has been laden on the exporting conveyance.
    (c) Verification. CBP may verify export entries and withdrawals 
against the records of the exporting carriers. Such verification may 
include an examination of the carrier's records of claims and 
settlement of export freight charges and any other records that may 
relate to the transaction. The exporting carrier must maintain these 
records for five years from the date of exportation of the merchandise.


Sec.  18.8  Liability for not meeting in-bond requirements; liquidated 
damages; payment of taxes, duties, fees, and charges.

    (a) Liability. The party whose bond is obligated on the 
transportation entry will be liable for breach of any of the 
requirements found in this part, any other regulations governing the 
movement of merchandise in bond, and any of the other conditions 
specified in the bond. This includes, but is not limited to shortages, 
irregular delivery, or non-delivery, at the port of destination or port 
of exportation of the merchandise transported in-bond; the failure to 
export merchandise transported in bond pursuant to a transportation and 
exportation or immediate exportation entry; and, the failure to 
maintain intact seals or the unauthorized removal of seals. Appropriate 
commercial or government documentation may be provided to CBP as proof 
of delivery and/or exportation. Any loss found to exist at the port of 
destination or port of exportation will be presumed to have occurred 
while the merchandise was in the possession of

[[Page 45400]]

the party whose bond was obligated under the transportation entry, 
unless conclusive evidence to the contrary is produced.
    (b) Liquidated damages. (1) The party whose bond is obligated on 
the transportation entry is liable for payment of liquidated damages if 
there is a failure to comply with any of the requirements found in this 
part, any other regulations governing the movement of merchandise in 
bond, and any of the other conditions specified in the bond.
    (2) Petition for relief. In any case in which liquidated damages 
are imposed in accordance with this section and CBP is satisfied by the 
evidence submitted with a petition for relief filed in accordance with 
the provisions of part 172 of this chapter that any violation of the 
terms and conditions of the bond occurred without any intent to evade 
any law or regulation, CBP may cancel such claim upon the payment of 
any lesser amount or without the payment of any amount as may be deemed 
appropriate under the law and in view of the circumstances.
    (c) Taxes, duties, fees, and charges. In addition to the liquidated 
damages described in paragraph (b) of this section, the party whose 
bond is obligated on the transportation entry will be liable for any 
duties, taxes, and fees accruing to the United States on the missing 
merchandise, together with all costs, charges, and expenses, caused by 
the failure to make the required transportation, report, delivery, 
entry and/or exportation. The amount of duties, taxes, fees, and 
charges owed to the United States under this paragraph is not limited 
to the amount of the bond obligated on the transportation entry.
    (d) Carnets--(1) TIR carnets. (i) The domestic guaranteeing 
association will be jointly and severally liable with the initial 
bonded carrier for duties, taxes, and fees accruing to the U.S., and 
any other charges imposed, in lieu thereof, as the result of any 
shortage, irregular delivery, or nondelivery at the port of destination 
or port of exportation of merchandise covered by a TIR carnet. The 
liability of the domestic guaranteeing association is limited to 
$50,000 per TIR carnet for duties, taxes, and sums collected in lieu 
thereof. Penalties imposed as liquidated damages against the initial 
bonded carrier, and sums assessed against the guaranteeing association 
in lieu of duties and taxes for any shortage, irregular delivery, or 
nondelivery will be in accordance with this section. If a TIR carnet 
has not been discharged or has been discharged subject to a 
reservation, the guaranteeing association will be notified within one 
year of the date upon which the carnet is taken on charge, including 
time for receipt of the notification, except that if the discharge was 
obtained improperly or fraudulently the period will be two years. 
However, in cases that become the subject of legal proceedings during 
the above-mentioned period, no claim for payment will be made more than 
one year after the date when the decision of the court becomes 
enforceable.
    (ii) Within three months from the date demand for payment is made 
by the port director as provided by Sec.  18.6(e), the guaranteeing 
association must pay the amount claimed, except that if the amount 
claimed exceeds the liability of the guaranteeing association under the 
carnet (see Sec.  114.22(d) of this chapter), the carrier must pay the 
excess. The amount paid will be refunded if, within a period of one 
year from the date on which the claim for payment was made, it is 
established to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of CBP that no 
irregularity occurred. CBP may cancel liquidated damages assessed 
against the guaranteeing association to the extent authorized by 
paragraph (b) of this section.
    (2) A.T.A. or TECRO/AIT carnets. The domestic guaranteeing 
association is jointly and severally liable with the initial bonded 
carrier for pecuniary penalties, liquidated damages, duties, fees, and 
taxes accruing to the United States and any other charges imposed as 
the result of any shortage, irregular delivery, failure to comply with 
sealing requirements in this part, and any non-delivery at the port of 
destination or port of exportation of merchandise covered by an A.T.A. 
or TECRO/AIT carnet. However, the liability of the guaranteeing 
association must not exceed the amount of the import duties by more 
than 10 percent. If an A.T.A. or TECRO/AIT carnet is unconditionally 
discharged with respect to certain goods, the guaranteeing association 
will no longer be liable on the carnet with respect to those goods 
unless it is subsequently discovered that the discharge of the carnet 
was obtained fraudulently or improperly or that there has been a breach 
of the conditions of temporary admission or of transit. No claim for 
payment will be made more than one year following the date of 
expiration of the validity of the carnet. The guaranteeing association 
will be allowed a period of six months from the date of any claim by 
the port director in which to furnish proof of the reexportation of the 
goods or of any other proper discharge of the A.T.A. or TECRO/AIT 
carnet. If such proof is not furnished within the time specified, the 
guaranteeing association must either deposit or provisionally pay the 
sums. The deposit or payment will become final three months after the 
date of the deposit or payment, during which time the guaranteeing 
association may still furnish proof of the reexportation of the goods 
to recover the sums deposited or paid.


Sec.  18.9  New in-bond movement for forwarded or returned merchandise.

    The carrier or any of the parties named in Sec.  18.1(c) must, in 
accordance with the filing requirements of Sec.  18.1, submit a new in-
bond application in order to forward or return merchandise from the 
port of destination or port of exportation named in the original in-
bond application, or from the port of diversion, to any another port. 
If the merchandise is moving under cover of a carnet, the carnet may be 
accepted as a transportation entry.


Sec.  18.10  Special manifest.

    (a) General. Merchandise for which no other type of bonded movement 
is appropriate (e.g., prematurely discharged or overcarried merchandise 
and other such types of movements whereby the normal transportation-in-
bond procedures are not applicable) may be shipped in-bond from the 
port of unlading to the port of destination, port of exportation or 
port of diversion where applicable, upon approval by CBP.
    (b) Filing requirements. The carrier or any of the parties named in 
Sec.  18.1(c) may, in accordance with the filing requirements of Sec.  
18.1, submit an in-bond application, requesting permission to transport 
merchandise described in paragraph (a) of this section in-bond as a 
special manifest. Authorization for the movement of merchandise will be 
transmitted via a CBP-approved EDI system. The party submitting the in-
bond application must identify the relevant merchandise and also 
identify the date and entry number of any entry made at the port of 
destination covering the merchandise to be returned, if known. For 
diversion of cargo, see Sec. Sec.  4.33, 4.34, and 18.5 of this 
chapter. When no entry is identified, the port director may approve the 
shipment pursuant to this section.

Subpart B--Immediate Transportation Without Appraisement


Sec.  18.11  General rules.

    (a) Delivery outside port limits. Merchandise covered by an entry 
for immediate transportation, including a TIR carnet, or a manifest of 
baggage shipped in-bond (other than baggage to be forwarded in-bond to 
a CBP station--

[[Page 45401]]

see Sec.  18.13(a)), may be delivered to a place outside a port of 
entry for examination and release as contemplated by 19 U.S.C. 1484(c), 
and in accordance with the provisions of Sec.  151.9 of this chapter.
    (b) Divided shipments. One or more entire packages of merchandise 
covered by an invoice from one consignor to one consignee may be 
entered for consumption or warehouse at the port of first arrival, and 
the remainder entered for immediate transportation, provided that all 
of the merchandise covered by the invoice is entered and a TIR carnet 
which may cover such merchandise is discharged as to that merchandise.
    (c) Consolidated loads and combined shipments. Several importations 
may be consolidated into one immediate transportation entry when bills 
of lading or carrier's certificates name only one consignee at the port 
of first arrival. However, merchandise moving under cover of a TIR 
carnet may not be consolidated with other merchandise.
    (d) Textiles. Textiles and textile products subject to Sec.  204, 
Agricultural Act of 1956, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1854) must be described 
in such detail as to enable the port director to estimate the duties 
and taxes, if any, due. The port director may require evidence to 
satisfy him or her of the approximate correctness of the value and 
quantity stated in the entry (e.g., detailed quantity description: 14 
cartons, 2 dozen per carton); detailed description of the textiles or 
textile products including type of commodity and chief fiber content 
(e.g., men's cotton jeans or women's wool sweaters); net weight of the 
textiles or textile products (including immediate packing but excluding 
pallet); total value of the textiles or textile products; manufacturer 
or supplier; country of origin; and name(s) and address(es) of the 
person(s) to whom the textiles and textile products are consigned.


Sec.  18.12  Entry at port of destination.

    (a) Arrival procedures. Merchandise received under an immediate 
transportation entry at the port of destination may be admitted to a 
FTZ, entered into a bonded warehouse, entered for consumption, 
transportation and exportation, immediate exportation, immediate 
transportation, or any other form of entry, within 15 calendar days 
from the date of arrival at the port of destination and is subject to 
all the conditions pertaining to merchandise entered at a port of first 
arrival.
    (b) Entry. The right to make entry at the port of destination will 
be determined in accordance with the provisions of 19 U.S.C. 1484 and 
the regulations promulgated thereunder.
    (c) Entry at subsequent ports. When a portion of a shipment is 
entered at the port of first arrival and the remainder of the shipment 
is entered for consumption or warehouse at one or more subsequent 
ports, the entry at each subsequent port may be made on an extract of 
the invoice as provided for in Sec.  141.84 of this chapter.
    (d) General order merchandise. All merchandise included in an 
immediate transportation entry not entered pursuant to Sec.  18.12(a) 
within 15 calendar days from the date of arrival at the port of 
destination will become subject on the 16th day to general order 
requirements pursuant to Sec.  4.37, Sec.  122.50, or Sec.  123.10 of 
this chapter, as applicable.

Subpart C--Shipment of Baggage In-Bond


Sec.  18.13  Procedure; manifest.

    (a) In-bond application required. Baggage may be forwarded in-bond 
to another port of entry, or to a Customs station listed in Sec.  101.4 
of this chapter without examination or assessment of duty at the port 
or station of first arrival at the request of the passenger, the 
transportation company, or the agent of either, by filing an in-bond 
application in accordance with the provisions of Sec.  18.1.
    (b) Coast to coast transportation. Baggage arriving in-bond or 
otherwise at a port on the Atlantic or Pacific coast, destined to a 
port on the opposite coast, may be laden under CBP supervision, without 
examination and without being placed in-bond, on a vessel proceeding to 
the opposite coast, provided the vessel will proceed to the opposite 
coast without stopping at any other port on the first coast.


Sec.  18.14  Shipment of baggage in transit to foreign countries.

    The baggage of any person in transit through the United States from 
one foreign country to another may be shipped over a bonded route for 
exportation. Such baggage must be shipped under the regulations 
prescribed in Sec.  18.13. See Sec.  123.64 of this chapter for the 
regulations applicable to baggage shipped in transit through the United 
States between points in Canada or Mexico.

Subpart D--Transportation and Exportation


Sec.  18.20  General rules.

    (a) Classes of goods for which a transportation and exportation 
entry is authorized. Entry for transportation and exportation may be 
made under Sec.  553, Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1553), 
for any merchandise, except as provided under Sec.  18.1(l).
    (b) Filing requirement. Transportation and exportation entries must 
be filed via a CBP-approved EDI system and in accordance with Sec.  
18.1.
    (c) Entry procedures. Except as provided for in subparts D, E, F 
and G of part 123 of this chapter (relating to merchandise in transit 
through the United States between two points in contiguous foreign 
territory), when merchandise is entered for transportation and 
exportation, a (TIR) carnet, three copies of an air waybill (see Sec.  
122.92 of this chapter), or the in-bond application must be submitted 
to CBP (see Sec.  18.1). The port director may require the carrier to 
provide to CBP additional information and documentation related to the 
delivery of the merchandise to the bonded carrier.
    (d) No bonded common carrier facilities available. Except for 
merchandise covered by a carnet (see Sec.  18.2(a)(2) and (3)), in 
places where no bonded common carrier facilities are reasonably 
available and merchandise is permitted to be transported otherwise than 
by a bonded common carrier, the port director may permit entry in 
accordance with the procedures outlined in this section if he or she is 
satisfied that the revenue will not be endangered. A bond on CBP Form 
301, containing the bond conditions set forth in Sec.  113.62 of this 
chapter in an amount equal to double the estimated duties that would be 
owed will be required when the port director deems such action 
necessary. The principal on any bond filed to guarantee exportation may 
be required by the port director to provide evidence of exportation in 
accordance with Sec.  113.55 of this chapter within 30 days of 
exportation.
    (e) Electronic Export Information. Filing of Electronic Export 
Information (EEI) is not required for merchandise entered for 
transportation and exportation, provided the merchandise has not been 
entered for consumption or warehousing, or admitted into an FTZ. If the 
merchandise requires an export license, the merchandise is subject to 
the filing requirements of the licensing Federal agency. See 15 CFR 
part 30, subpart A.
    (f) Time to export. Any portion of an in-bond shipment entered for 
transportation and exportation must be exported within 15 calendar days 
from the date of arrival of the last portion of the shipment at the 
port of exportation, unless an extension has been granted by CBP 
pursuant to Sec.  18.24. On the 16th day, the merchandise will become

[[Page 45402]]

subject to general order requirements under Sec.  4.37, Sec.  122.50, 
or Sec.  123.10 of this chapter, as applicable.
    (g) Notice of arrival and proof of exportation. Arrival must be 
reported within two business days after the arrival at the port of 
exportation, in accordance with Sec.  18.1. Within two business days 
after exportation, the in-bond record must be updated via a CBP 
approved EDI system to reflect that the merchandise has been exported. 
The principal on any bond filed to guarantee exportation may be 
required by the port director to provide evidence of exportation in 
accordance with Sec.  113.55 of this chapter.


Sec.  18.21  [Reserved].


Sec.  18.22  Procedure at port of exportation.

    (a) Transfer of bonded merchandise to another conveyance. If in-
bond merchandise must be transferred to another conveyance at the port 
of exportation, the procedure will be as prescribed in Sec. Sec.  18.3 
and 18.4(c).
    (b) Transfer of baggage by express shipment. An express consignment 
carrier that is bonded as a common carrier and is responsible under its 
bond for delivery to the CBP officer in charge of the exporting 
conveyance of articles shown to be baggage in the in-bond record may 
transfer the baggage by express shipment without a permit from the port 
director and without the use of a transfer ticket or other CBP 
formality from its terminal to the exporting conveyance for lading 
under CBP supervision. The in-bond record must be updated to reflect 
the name of the owner of the baggage or article and the name of the 
conveyance transporting the owner of the baggage. See Sec.  18.1.


Sec.  18.23  Change of port of exportation or first foreign port; 
change of entry.

    (a) Change of port of exportation or first foreign port. The 
carrier or any of the parties provided for in Sec.  18.1(c) must notify 
CBP of a change of the port of exportation or first foreign port that 
was provided in the original in-bond application by updating the in-
bond record via a CBP-approved EDI system within two business days of 
learning of the change in accordance with Sec.  18.1(h).
    (b) Change of entry. Merchandise received at the anticipated port 
of exportation may, in lieu of export, be admitted into an FTZ, entered 
for consumption, warehouse, or any other form of entry, and is subject 
to all the conditions pertaining to merchandise entered at a port of 
first arrival.


Sec.  18.24  Retention of goods within port limits; dividing of 
shipments.

    (a) Retention of goods within port limits. Upon receipt of a 
written request by the carrier or any of the parties provided for in 
Sec.  18.1(c), the port director, in his or her discretion, may allow 
in-transit merchandise, including merchandise covered by a (TIR) 
carnet, to remain within the port limits of the port of exportation 
under CBP supervision without extra expense to the Government for a 
period not exceeding 90 days. Upon obtaining CBP approval, the carrier 
or any of the parties provided for in Sec.  18.1(c) must submit an 
immediate exportation in-bond application pursuant to Sec. Sec.  18.1 
and 18.25 of this chapter. Upon further requests, additional extensions 
of 90 days or less may be granted by the port director, but the 
merchandise may not remain in the port limits for more than one year 
from the date of arrival of the importing conveyance at the port of 
first arrival. Any merchandise that remains in the port limits without 
authorization is subject to general order requirements under Sec.  
4.37, Sec.  122.50, or Sec.  123.10 of this chapter, as applicable.
    (b) Divided shipments at the port of exportation. The dividing of 
an in-bond shipment after it has arrived at the port of exportation 
will be permitted when exportation in its entirety is not possible by 
reason of the different destinations to which portions of the shipment 
are destined, when the exporting vessel cannot properly accommodate the 
entire quantity, or in similar circumstances. The carrier or any of the 
parties named in Sec.  18.1(c) must update the in-bond record with the 
new information regarding the divided shipment within two business days 
of the dividing of the shipment. In the case, however, of merchandise 
being transported under cover of a carnet, the dividing of a shipment 
is not permitted.

Subpart E--Immediate Exportation


Sec.  18.25  Direct exportation.

    (a) Merchandise--(1) General. Except for exportations by mail as 
provided for in subpart F of part 145 of this chapter (see also Sec.  
158.45 of this chapter), an in-bond application must be transmitted as 
provided under Sec.  18.1, for the following merchandise when it is to 
be directly exported without transportation to another port:
    (i) Merchandise in CBP custody for which no entry has been made or 
completed;
    (ii) Merchandise covered by an unliquidated consumption entry; or
    (iii) Merchandise that has been entered in good faith but is found 
to be prohibited under any law of the United States.
    (2) Carnets. If a TIR carnet covers the merchandise that is to be 
exported directly without transportation, the carnet will be discharged 
or canceled, as appropriate (see part 114 of this chapter), and an in-
bond application must be transmitted, as provided by this part. If an 
A.T.A. carnet covers the merchandise that is to be exported directly 
without transportation, the carnet must be discharged by the 
certification of the appropriate transportation and reexportation 
vouchers by CBP officers as necessary.
    (b) Restriction on immediate exportation by truck. Trucks arriving 
at a U.S. port of entry, carrying shipments for which an immediate 
exportation entry is presented as the sole means of entry, may be 
denied authorization to proceed. The port director may require the 
truck to return to the country from which it came or may allow the 
filing of a new entry.
    (c) Time to export. Any portion of an in-bond shipment entered for 
immediate exportation pursuant to an in-bond entry must be exported 
within 15 calendar days from the date of arrival at the port of 
exportation, unless an extension has been granted by CBP pursuant to 
Sec.  18.24(a). On the 16th day, the merchandise will become subject to 
general order requirements under Sec. Sec.  4.37, 122.50, or 123.10 of 
this chapter, as applicable.
    (d) Electronic Export Information. Filing of Electronic Export 
Information (EEI) is not required for merchandise entered under an 
Immediate Exportation entry provided that the merchandise has not been 
entered for consumption, for warehousing, or admitted to a FTZ. If the 
merchandise requires an export license, the merchandise is subject to 
the filing requirements of the licensing Federal agency. See 15 CFR 
part 30, subpart A.
    (e) Exportation without landing, vessels. If the merchandise is 
exported on the arriving vessel without landing, a representative of 
the vessel who has knowledge of the facts must certify that the 
merchandise entered for exportation was not discharged during the 
vessel's stay in port. A charge will be made against the continuous 
bond on CBP Form 301, containing the bond conditions set forth in Sec.  
113.64 of this chapter, if on file. If a continuous bond is not on 
file, a single entry bond containing the bond conditions set forth in 
Sec.  113.64 will be required. If the merchandise is covered by a TIR 
carnet, the carnet must not be taken on charge (see Sec.  114.22(c)(2) 
of this chapter).

[[Page 45403]]

    (f) Notice and proof of exportation. Within two business days after 
exportation of merchandise described in paragraph (a) of this section, 
the in-bond record must be updated via a CBP-approved EDI system to 
reflect that the merchandise has been exported. The principal on any 
bond filed to guarantee exportation may be required by the port 
director to provide evidence of exportation in accordance with Sec.  
113.55 of this chapter within 30 days of exportation.
    (g) Explosives. Gunpowder and other explosive substances, the 
deposit of which in any public store or bonded warehouse is prohibited 
by law, may be entered on arrival from a foreign port for immediate 
exportation in-bond by sea, but must be transferred directly from the 
importing to the exporting vessel.
    (h) Transfer by express shipment. The transfer of articles by 
express shipment must be in accordance with the procedures set forth in 
Sec.  18.22.


Sec.  18.26  Indirect exportation.

    (a) Indirect exportation, vessels. Merchandise that had been 
intended to be exported without landing from an importing vessel in 
accordance with Sec.  18.25(e) may instead be transported in-bond to 
another port for exportation and entered for transportation and 
exportation in accordance with the procedure in Sec.  18.20, upon the 
transmission of an in-bond application to CBP pursuant to Sec.  18.1, 
via a CBP-approved EDI system. Upon acceptance of the entry by CBP and 
acceptance of the merchandise by the bonded carrier, the bonded carrier 
assumes liability for the transportation and exportation of the 
merchandise. If the merchandise was prohibited entry by any Government 
agency, that fact must be noted in the in-bond application.
    (b) Carnets. If merchandise to be transported in-bond to another 
port for exportation was imported under cover of a TIR carnet, the 
carnet must be discharged or canceled at the port of importation and 
the merchandise transported under an electronic in-bond application 
(see Sec.  18.20). If merchandise to be transported in-bond to another 
port for exportation was imported under cover of an A.T.A. carnet, the 
appropriate transit voucher will be accepted in lieu of an electronic 
in-bond application. One transit voucher will be certified by CBP 
officers at the port of importation and a second transit voucher, 
together with the reexportation voucher, will be certified at the port 
of exportation.
    (c) Transfer at selected port of exportation. If the merchandise is 
to be transferred to another conveyance after arrival at the port 
selected for exportation pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section, the 
procedure prescribed in Sec.  18.4(c) will be followed. The provisions 
of Sec. Sec.  18.23 and 18.24 will also be followed in applicable 
cases.
    (d) Time to export. Any portion of an in-bond shipment entered for 
indirect exportation following an in-bond entry must be exported within 
15 calendar days from the date of arrival at the port of exportation, 
unless an extension has been granted by CBP pursuant to Sec.  18.24(a). 
On the 16th day, the merchandise will become subject to general order 
requirements under Sec.  4.37, Sec.  122.50, or Sec.  123.10 of this 
chapter, as applicable.
    (e) Notice and proof of exportation. Within two business days after 
exportation, the in-bond record must be updated via a CBP-approved EDI 
system to reflect that the merchandise has been exported. The principal 
on any bond filed to guarantee exportation may be required by the port 
director to provide evidence of exportation in accordance with Sec.  
113.55 of this chapter within 30 days of exportation.


Sec.  18.27  Port marks.

    Port marks may be added by authority of the port director and under 
the supervision of a CBP officer. The original marks and the port marks 
must appear in all documentation or the electronic equivalent must 
appear in electronic records pertaining to the exportation.

Subpart F--Merchandise Transported by Pipeline


Sec.  18.31  Pipeline transportation of bonded merchandise.

    (a) General procedures--(1) Applicability. Merchandise may be 
transported by pipeline under the procedures in this part, as 
appropriate, and unless otherwise specifically provided for in this 
section.
    (2) In-bond application. For purposes of this section, the in-bond 
application will be made by submitting a CBP Form 7512 or by electronic 
submission via a CBP-approved EDI system.
    (b) Bill of lading to account for merchandise. Unless CBP has 
reasonable cause to suspect fraud, CBP will accept a bill of lading or 
equivalent document of receipt issued by the pipeline operator to the 
shipper and accepted by the consignee to account for the quantity of 
merchandise transported by pipeline and to maintain the identity of the 
merchandise.
    (c) Procedures when pipeline is only carrier. When a pipeline is 
the only carrier of the in-bond merchandise and there is no transfer to 
another carrier, the bill of lading or equivalent document of receipt 
issued by the pipeline operator to the shipper must be submitted with 
the in-bond application. If there are no discrepancies between the bill 
of lading or equivalent document of receipt and the in-bond application 
for the merchandise, and provided that CBP has no reasonable cause to 
suspect fraud, the bill of lading or equivalent document of receipt 
will be accepted by CBP as establishing the quantity and identity of 
the merchandise transported. The pipeline operator is responsible for 
any discrepancies, including shortages, irregular deliveries, or 
nondeliveries at the port of destination or exportation (see Sec.  
18.8).
    (d) Procedures when there is more than one carrier (i.e., transfer 
of the merchandise)--(1) Pipeline as initial carrier. When a pipeline 
is the initial carrier of merchandise to be transported in-bond and the 
merchandise is transferred to another conveyance (either a different 
mode of transportation or a pipeline operated by another operator), the 
procedures for transfers in Sec.  18.3 and paragraph (c) of this 
section must be followed, except that--
    (i) When the merchandise is to be transferred to one conveyance, a 
copy of the bill of lading or equivalent document issued by the 
pipeline operator to the shipper must be delivered to the person in 
charge of the conveyance for transmission to CBP; or
    (ii) When the merchandise is to be transferred to more than one 
conveyance, a copy of the bill of lading or equivalent document issued 
by the pipeline operator to the shipper must be delivered to the person 
in charge of each additional conveyance, for transmission to CBP.
    (2) Transfer to pipeline from initial carrier other than a 
pipeline. When merchandise initially transported in-bond by a carrier 
other than a pipeline is transferred to a pipeline, the procedures in 
Sec.  18.3 and paragraph (c) of this section must be followed, except 
that the bill of lading or other equivalent document of receipt issued 
by the pipeline operator to the shipper must be transmitted to CBP.
    (3) Initial carrier liable for discrepancies. In the case of either 
paragraph (d)(1) or (2) of this section, the initial carrier will be 
responsible for any discrepancies, including shortages, irregular 
deliveries, or nondeliveries, at the port of destination or failure to 
export at the port of exportation (see generally Sec.  18.8).

[[Page 45404]]

    (e) Recordkeeping. The shipper, pipeline operator, and consignee 
are subject to the recordkeeping requirements in 19 U.S.C. 1508 and 
1509, as provided for in part 163 of this chapter.

Subpart G--Merchandise Not Otherwise Subject to CBP Control 
Exported Under Cover of a TIR Carnet


Sec.  18.41  Applicability.

    The provisions of Sec. Sec.  18.41 through 18.45 apply only to 
merchandise to be exported under cover of a TIR carnet for the 
convenience of the U.S. exporter or other party in interest and do not 
apply to merchandise otherwise required to be transported in bond under 
the provisions of this chapter. Merchandise to be exported under cover 
of a TIR carnet for the convenience of the U.S. exporter or other party 
in interest may be transported with the use of the facilities of either 
bonded or non-bonded carriers.


Sec.  18.42  Direct exportation.

    At the port of exportation, the container or road vehicle, the 
merchandise, and the TIR carnet shall be made available to the port 
director. Any required Electronic Export Information (EEI) shall be 
filed in accordance with the applicable regulations of the Bureau of 
the Census (15 CFR part 30). The port director shall examine the 
merchandise to the extent he believes necessary to determine that the 
carnet has been properly completed and shall verify that the container 
or road vehicle has the necessary certificate of approval or approval 
plate intact and is in satisfactory condition. After completion of any 
required examination and supervision of loading, the port director will 
seal the container or road vehicle with customs seals and ascertain 
that the TIR plates are properly affixed and sealed. See Sec.  18.4(d). 
In the case of heavy or bulky goods moving under cover of a TIR carnet, 
the port director shall cause a customs seal or label, as appropriate, 
to be affixed. He shall also remove two vouchers from the carnet, 
execute the appropriate counterfoils, and return the carnet to the 
carrier or agent to accompany the merchandise.


Sec.  18.43  Indirect exportation.

    (a) Filing of Electronic Export Information. When merchandise is to 
move from one U.S. port to another for actual exportation at the second 
port, any Electronic Export Information (EEI) required to be validated 
shall be filed in accordance with the procedures described in the 
applicable regulations of the Bureau of the Census (15 CFR part 30).
    (b) Origination port procedure. The port director shall follow the 
procedure provided in Sec.  18.42 in respect to examination of the 
merchandise, supervision of loading, sealing or labeling, and affixing 
of TIR plates. The port director will remove one voucher from the 
carnet, execute the appropriate counterfoil, and return the carnet to 
the carrier or agent to accompany the container or road vehicle to the 
port of actual exportation.
    (c) Port of exportation procedure. At the port of actual 
exportation, the carnet and the container (or heavy or bulky goods) or 
road vehicle shall be presented to the port director who shall verify 
that seals or labels are intact and that there is no evidence of 
tampering. After verification, the port director shall remove the 
appropriate voucher from the carnet, execute the counterfoil, and 
return the carnet to the carrier or agent.


Sec.  18.44  Abandonment of exportation.

    In the event that exportation is abandoned at any time after 
merchandise has been placed under cover of a TIR carnet, the carrier or 
agent shall deliver the carnet to the nearest CBP office or to the CBP 
office at the origination port for cancellation (see Sec.  114.26(c) of 
this chapter). When the carnet has been canceled, the carrier or agent 
may remove customs seals or labels and unload the container (or heavy 
or bulky goods) or road vehicle without customs supervision.


Sec.  18.45  Supervision of exportation.

    The provisions of Sec. Sec.  18.41 through 18.44 do not require the 
director of the port of actual exportation to verify that merchandise 
moving under cover of a TIR carnet is loaded on board the exporting 
carrier.

Subpart H--Importer Security Filings


Sec.  18.46  Changes to Importer Security Filing information.

    For merchandise transported in bond, which at the time of 
transmission of the Importer Security Filing as required by Sec.  149.2 
of this chapter is intended to be entered as an immediate exportation 
(IE) or transportation and exportation (T&E) shipment, permission from 
the port director of the origination port is needed to change the in-
bond entry into a consumption entry. Such permission will only be 
granted upon receipt by CBP of a complete Importer Security Filing as 
required by part 149 of this chapter.

PART 19--CUSTOMS WAREHOUSES, CONTAINER STATIONS AND CONTROL OF 
MERCHANDISE THEREIN

0
10. The general authority for part 19 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 19 U.S.C. 66, 1202 (General Note 3(i), 
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States), 1624.
* * * * *

0
11. In Sec.  19.15, revise paragraphs (f) and (g)(1) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  19.15  Withdrawal for exportation of articles manufactured in 
bond; waste or byproducts for consumption.

* * * * *
    (f) The general procedure covering warehouse withdrawals for 
exportation must be followed in the case of articles withdrawn for 
exportation from a bonded manufacturing warehouse.
    (g)(1) Articles may be withdrawn for transportation and delivery to 
a bonded storage warehouse at an exterior port under the provisions of 
section 311, Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1311), for the 
sole purpose of immediate exportation, except for distilled spirits 
which may be withdrawn under the provisions of Sec.  311 for 
transportation and delivery to any bonded storage warehouse for the 
sole purpose of immediate exportation or may be withdrawn pursuant to 
section 309(a) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. 
1309(a)). To make a withdrawal an in-bond application must be filed 
(see part 18 of this chapter), as provided for in Sec.  144.36 of this 
chapter. A rewarehouse entry shall be made in accordance with Sec.  
144.34(b) of this chapter, supported by a bond on CBP Form 301, 
containing the bond conditions set forth in Sec.  113.63 of this 
chapter.
* * * * *

PART 113--CBP BONDS

0
12. The general authority for part 113 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 1623, 1624.
* * * * *

0
13. In Sec.  113.63, revise paragraph (c)(1) to read as follows:


Sec.  113.63  Basic custodial bond conditions.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) If a bonded carrier, to report in-bond arrivals and 
exportations in the manner and in the time prescribed by regulation and 
to export in-bond merchandise in the time periods prescribed by 
regulation.
* * * * *

[[Page 45405]]

PART 122--AIR COMMERCE REGULATIONS

    14. The general authority for part 122 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 19 U.S.C. 58b, 66, 1431, 1433, 1436, 
1448, 1459, 1590, 1594, 1623, 1624, 1644, 1644a, 2071 note.


0
15. In Sec.  122.92, revise paragraph (g) to read as follows:


Sec.  122.92  Procedure at port of origin.

* * * * *
    (g) Warning labels. The carrier shall supply and attach the warning 
label, as described in Sec.  18.4(b)(3) of this chapter, to each bonded 
package.

0
16. In Sec.  122.118, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  122.118  Exportation from port of arrival.

* * * * *
    (b) Time. Transit air cargo must be exported from the port of 
arrival within 15 days from the date the exporting airline receives the 
cargo. After the 15-day period, the individual cargo shipments must be 
made the subject of individual entries, as appropriate.
* * * * *

0
17. In Sec.  122.119, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  122.119  Transportation to another U.S. port.

* * * * *
    (b) Time. Transit air cargo traveling to a final port of 
destination in the U.S. shall be delivered to Customs at its 
destination within 30 days from the date the receiving airline gives 
the receipt for the cargo at the port of arrival.
* * * * *

0
18. In Sec.  122.120, revise paragraphs (c) and (k) to read as follows:


Sec.  122.120  Transportation to another port for exportation.

* * * * *
    (c) Time. Transit air cargo covered by this section shall be 
delivered to CBP at the port of exportation within 30 days from the 
date of receipt by the forwarding airline.
* * * * *
    (k) Failure to deliver. If all or part of the cargo listed on the 
transit air cargo manifest is not accounted for with an exportation 
copy within 45 days, the director of the port of arrival shall take 
action as provided in Sec.  122.119(d).

PART 123--CBP RELATIONS WITH CANADA AND MEXICO

0
19. The general authority for part 123 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 1202 (General Note 3(i), Harmonized 
Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS)), 1431, 1433, 1436, 
1448, 1624, 2071 note.
* * * * *

0
20. In Sec.  123.31, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  123.31  Merchandise in transit.

* * * * *
    (b) From one point in a contiguous country to another through the 
United States. Merchandise may be transported from point to point in 
Canada or in Mexico through the United States in bond in accordance 
with the procedures set forth in Sec. Sec.  18.1 and 18.20 through 
18.24 of this chapter except where those procedures are modified by 
this subpart or subparts E for trucks transiting the United States, F 
for commercial traveler's samples, or G for baggage.

0
21. Revise Sec.  123.32 to read as follows:


Sec.  123.32  In-bond application.

    An in-bond application must be submitted pursuant to part 18 of 
this chapter upon arrival of merchandise which is to proceed under the 
provisions of this subpart.


Sec.  123.34  [Removed and Reserved].

0
22. Remove and reserve Sec.  123.34.

0
23. In Sec.  123.42, revise the paragraph (c) heading and paragraphs 
(c)(1) and (d) introductory text, to read as follows:


Sec.  123.42  Truck shipments transiting the United States.

* * * * *
    (c) Procedure at U.S. port of arrival--(1) Filing of in-bond 
application. An in-bond application must be filed pursuant to Sec.  
18.1 of this chapter prior to or upon arrival at a U.S. port. At CBP's 
discretion the driver may be required to present four validated copies 
of the United States-Canada Transit Manifest, CBP Form 7512-B Canada 
8\1/2\, to the CBP officer, who will review the manifest for accuracy 
and verify its validation by Canadian Customs. If the manifest is found 
not to be validated properly, the truck will be required to be returned 
to the Canadian port of departure so that the manifest may be validated 
in accordance with Canadian Customs regulations. If the manifest is 
validated properly and no irregularity is found, the truck will be 
sealed unless sealing is waived by CBP. The CBP officer will note in 
the in-bond record and, if paper, on the manifest, the seal numbers or 
the waiver of sealing, retain the original, and return three copies of 
the manifest to the driver for presentation to CBP at the U.S. port of 
exportation.
* * * * *
    (d) Procedure at U.S. port of exportation. The arrival of the in-
bond shipment at the port of exportation must be reported to CBP in 
accordance with Sec.  18.1 of this chapter.
* * * * *

0
24. In Sec.  123.52, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  123.52  Commercial samples transported by automobile through the 
United States between ports in Canada.

    (a) General provisions. A commercial traveler arriving from Canada 
may be permitted to transport effectively corded and sealed samples in 
his automobile without further sealing in the United States, upon 
compliance with this section and subject to the conditions of Sec.  
18.20(d) of this chapter, since customs bonded carriers as described in 
Sec.  18.2 of this chapter are not considered to be reasonably 
available. Samples having a total value of not more than $200 may be 
carried by a nonresident commercial traveler through the United States 
without cording and sealing and without an in-transit manifest in 
accordance with Sec.  148.41 of this chapter.
* * * * *

0
25. In Sec.  123.64, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  123.64  Baggage in transit through the United States between 
ports in Canada or in Mexico.

    (a) Procedure. Baggage in transit from point to point in Canada or 
Mexico through the United States may be transported in-bond through the 
United States in accordance with the procedures set forth in Sec. Sec.  
18.1, 18.13, 18.14, and 18.20 through 18.24 of this chapter except 
where those procedures are modified by this section.
* * * * *

PART 141--ENTRY OF MERCHANDISE

0
26. The general authority for part 141 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 1414, 1448, 1484, 1624.


0
27. In Sec.  141.61, revise paragraph (e)(1)(i)(A) to read as follows:


Sec.  141.61  Completion of entry and entry summary documentation.

* * * * *
    (e) Statistical information--(1) Information required on entry 
summary or withdrawal form--(i) Where form provides space--(A) Single 
invoice. For each class or kind of merchandise subject to a separate 
statistical reporting number, the applicable information required by 
the General Statistical Notes, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United 
States (HTSUS), must be shown on the entry summary, CBP Form

[[Page 45406]]

7501. The applicable information must also be shown on the in-bond 
application filed pursuant to part 18 of this chapter when it is used 
to document an incoming vessel shipment proceeding to a third country 
pursuant to an entry for transportation and exportation, or immediate 
exportation.
* * * * *

PART 142--ENTRY PROCESS

0
28. The general authority for part 142 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 1448, 1484, 1624.


0
29. In Sec.  142.18, revise paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  142.18  Entry summary not required for prohibited merchandise.

    (a) * * *
    (1) An entry for exportation filed using an in-bond application 
pursuant to part 18 of this chapter, or an application to destroy the 
merchandise under CBP supervision is made within 10 days after the time 
of entry, and the exportation or destruction is accomplished promptly, 
or
    (2) An entry for transportation and exportation, filed using an in-
bond application pursuant to part 18 of this chapter, is made within 10 
days after the time of entry and domestic carriage of the merchandise 
does not conflict with the requirements of another Federal agency.
* * * * *

0
30. In Sec.  142.28, revise paragraph (a)(2) to read as follows:


Sec.  142.28  Withdrawal or entry summary not required for prohibited 
merchandise.

    (a) * * *
    (2) An entry for exportation or for transportation and exportation 
filed using an in-bond application pursuant to part 18 of this chapter, 
or an application to destroy the merchandise, is made within the 
specified time limit, and the exportation or destruction is 
accomplished promptly.
* * * * *

PART 143--SPECIAL ENTRY PROCEDURES

0
31. The general authority for part 143 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 1414, 1481, 1484, 1498, 1624, 1641.


0
32. In Sec.  143.1, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  143.1  Eligibility.

* * * * *
    (c) Participants for other purposes. Upon approval by CBP, any 
party may participate in ABI for other purposes, including transmission 
of protests, filing of in-bond applications, and applications for FTZ 
admission (CBP Form 214).

PART 144--WAREHOUSE AND REWAREHOUSE ENTRIES AND WITHDRAWALS

0
33. The general authority for part 144 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 1484, 1557, 1559, 1624.
* * * * *

0
34. In Sec.  144.22, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  144.22  Endorsement of transfer on withdrawal form.

* * * * *
    (b) In-bond application filed pursuant to part 18 of this chapter, 
for merchandise to be withdrawn for transportation, exportation, or 
transportation and exportation.

0
35. In Sec.  144.36, revise paragraphs (c), (d) introductory text, (f), 
and (g)(4) to read as follows:


Sec.  144.36  Withdrawal for transportation.

* * * * *
    (c) Form. (1) A withdrawal for transportation shall be filed by 
submitting an in-bond application pursuant to part 18 of this chapter.
    (2) Separate withdrawals for transportation from a single 
warehouse, via a single conveyance, consigned to the same consignee, 
and deposited into a single warehouse, can be filed using one in-bond 
application, under one control number, provided that the information 
for each withdrawal, as required in paragraph (d) of this section is 
provided in the in-bond application for certification by CBP. With the 
exception of alcohol and tobacco products, this procedure will not be 
allowed for merchandise that is in any way restricted (for example, 
quota/visa).
    (3) The requirement that an in-bond application be filed and the 
information required in paragraph (d) of this section be shown will not 
be required if the merchandise qualifies under the exemption in Sec.  
144.34(c).
    (d) Information required. In addition to the statement of quantity 
required by Sec.  144.32, the following information for the merchandise 
being withdrawn must be provided in the in-bond application:
* * * * *
    (f) Forwarding procedure. The merchandise must be forwarded in 
accordance with the general provisions for transportation in bond 
(Sec. Sec.  18.1 through 18.9 of this chapter). However, when the 
alternate procedures for transfers between integrated bonded warehouses 
under Sec.  144.34(c) are employed, the merchandise need not be 
delivered to a bonded carrier for transportation, and an entry for 
transportation and a rewarehouse entry will not be required.
    (g) * * *
    (4) Forwarded to another port or returned to the origination port 
in accordance with Sec. Sec.  18.5(c) or 18.9 of this chapter;
* * * * *

0
36. In Sec.  144.37, revise paragraphs (a) and (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  144.37  Withdrawal for exportation.

    (a) Form. A withdrawal for either direct or indirect exportation 
must be filed by submitting an in-bond application pursuant to part 18 
of this chapter or on CBP Form 7501 in 3 copies for merchandise being 
exported under cover of a TIR carnet. The in-bond application or CBP 
Form 7501 must contain all of the statistical information as provided 
in Sec.  141.61(e) of this chapter. The port director may require an 
extra copy or copies of CBP Form 7501 for use in connection with the 
delivery of merchandise to the carrier.
    (b) Procedure for indirect exportation--(1) Forwarding. Merchandise 
withdrawn for indirect exportation (transportation and exportation) 
must be forwarded to the port of exportation in accordance with the 
general provisions for transportation in bond (part 18 of this 
chapter).
    (2) Dividing of shipments. The dividing up for exportation of 
shipments arriving under warehouse withdrawals for indirect exportation 
will be permitted only when various portions of a shipment are destined 
to different destinations, when the export vessel cannot properly 
accommodate the entire quantity, or in other similar circumstances. In 
the case of merchandise moving under cover of a TIR carnet, if the 
merchandise is not to be exported or if the shipment is to be divided, 
appropriate entry will be required and the carnet discharged. The 
provisions of Sec. Sec.  18.23 and 18.24 of this chapter concerning 
change of destination or retention of merchandise on the dock must also 
be followed in applicable cases.
* * * * *

PART 146--FOREIGN TRADE ZONES

0
37. The general authority for part 146 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 81a-81u, 1202 (General Note 3(i), 
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States), 1623, 1624.


[[Page 45407]]



0
38. In Sec.  146.62, revise paragraphs (a) and (b)(2) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  146.62  Entry.

    (a) General. Entry for foreign merchandise that is to be 
transferred from a zone, or removed from a zone for exportation or 
transportation to another port, for consumption or warehouse, will be 
made by filing an in-bond application pursuant to part 18 of this 
chapter, CBP Form 3461, CBP Form 7501, or other applicable CBP forms. 
If entry is made on CBP Form 3461, the person making entry shall file 
an entry summary for all the merchandise covered by the CBP Form 3461 
within 10 business days after the time of entry.
    (b) * * *
    (2) An in-bond application for merchandise to be transferred to 
another port or zone or for exportation must provide that the 
merchandise covered is foreign trade zone merchandise; give the number 
of the zone from which the merchandise was transferred; state the 
status of the merchandise; and, if applicable, bear the notation or 
endorsement provided for in Sec.  146.64(c), Sec.  146.66(b), or Sec.  
146.70(c).
* * * * *

0
39. In Sec.  146.66, revise paragraphs (a) and (b) and remove the words 
``Customs Form'' and add in their place the words ``CBP Form'' wherever 
they appear in paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) and (d).
    The revisions read as follows:


Sec.  146.66  Transfer of merchandise from one zone to another.

    (a) At the same port. A transfer of merchandise to another zone 
with a different operator at the same port (including a consolidated 
port) must be made by a licensed cartman or a bonded carrier as 
provided for in Sec.  112.2(b) of this chapter or by the operator of 
the zone for which the merchandise is destined under an entry for 
immediate transportation filed via an in-bond application pursuant to 
part 18 of this chapter or other appropriate form with a CBP Form 214 
filed at the destination zone. A transfer of merchandise between zone 
sites at the same port having the same operator may be made under a 
permit on CBP Form 6043 or under a local control system approved by the 
port director wherein any loss of merchandise between sites will be 
treated as if the loss occurred in the zone.
    (b) At a different port. A transfer of merchandise from a zone at 
one port of entry to a zone at another port must be made by bonded 
carrier under an entry for immediate transportation filed via an in-
bond application pursuant to part 18 of this chapter. All copies of the 
entry must bear a notation that the merchandise is being transferred to 
another zone designated by its number.
* * * * *

0
40. In Sec.  146.67, revise paragraphs (b) and (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  146.67  Transfer of merchandise for exportation.

* * * * *
    (b) Immediate exportation. Each transfer of merchandise to the 
customs territory for exportation at the port where the zone is located 
will be made under an entry for immediate exportation filed in an in-
bond application pursuant to part 18 of this chapter. The person making 
entry must furnish an export bond on CBP Form 301 containing the bond 
conditions provided for in Sec.  113.63 of this chapter.
    (c) Transportation and exportation. Each transfer of merchandise to 
the customs territory for transportation to and exportation from a 
different port will be made under an entry for transportation and 
exportation in an in-bond application pursuant to part 18 of this 
chapter. The bonded carrier will be responsible for exportation of the 
merchandise in accordance with Sec.  18.26 of this chapter.
* * * * *

0
41. Revise Sec.  146.68 to read as follows:


Sec.  146.68  Transfer for transportation or exportation; estimated 
production.

    (a) Weekly permit. The port director may allow the person making 
entry for merchandise provided for in Sec.  146.63(c) to file an 
application for a weekly permit to enter and release merchandise during 
a calendar week for exportation, transportation, or transportation and 
exportation. The application will be made by filing an in-bond 
application pursuant to part 18 of this chapter. The in-bond 
application must provide invoice or schedule information like that 
required in Sec.  146.63(c)(1). If actual transfers will exceed the 
estimate for the week, the person with the right to make entry must 
file a supplemental in-bond application to cover the additional 
merchandise to be transferred from the subzone or zone site. No 
merchandise covered by the weekly permit may be transferred from the 
zone before approval of the application by the port director.
    (b) Individual entries. After approval of the application for a 
weekly permit by the port director, the person making entry will be 
authorized to file individual in-bond applications for exportation, 
transportation, or transportation and exportation of the merchandise 
covered by permit. Upon transfer of the merchandise, the carrier must 
update the in-bond record via a CBP-approved EDI system to ensure its 
assumption of liability under the carrier's or cartman's bond. CBP will 
consider the time of entry to be when the removing carrier updates the 
in-bond record.
    (c) Statement of merchandise entered. The person making entry for 
merchandise under an approved weekly permit must file with the port 
director, by the close of business on the second business day of the 
week following the week designated on the permit, a statement of the 
merchandise entered under that permit. The statement must list each in-
bond application by its unique IT number, and must provide a 
reconciliation of the quantities on the weekly permit with the 
manifested quantities on the individual in-bond applications submitted 
to CBP, as well as an explanation of any discrepancy.

PART 151--EXAMINATION, SAMPLING, AND TESTING OF MERCHANDISE

0
42. The general authority for part 151 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 1202 (General Note 3(i) and (j), 
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS)), 1624.
* * * * *

0
43. Revise Sec.  151.9 to read as follows:


Sec.  151.9  Immediate transportation entry delivered outside port 
limits.

    When merchandise covered by an immediate transportation entry has 
been authorized by the port director to be delivered to a place outside 
a port of entry as provided for in Sec.  18.11(a) of this chapter, the 
provisions of Sec.  151.7 must be complied with to the same extent as 
if the merchandise had been delivered to the port of entry, and then 
authorized to be examined elsewhere than at the public stores, wharf, 
or other place under the control of CBP.

PART 181--NORTH AMERICAN FREE TRADE AGREEMENT

0
44. The general authority for part 181 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 66, 1202 (General Note 3(i), Harmonized 
Tariff Schedule of the United States), 1624, 3314.
* * * * *


Sec.  181.47  [Amended].

0
45. In Sec.  181.47, amend paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(E) by removing the 
words ``CBP 7512'' and adding in their place the

[[Page 45408]]

words ``In-bond application submitted pursuant to part 18 of this 
chapter''.

Kevin K. McAleenan,
Acting Commissioner.
    Approved: September 20, 2017.
Timothy E. Skud,
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Treasury.
[FR Doc. 2017-20495 Filed 9-27-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9111-14-P