Import Customs Clearance

Formal vs. Informal Entries

Shipments valued over $2,500 require a formal entry (CBP Form 3461/7501). We handle Type 01 (consumption), Type 03 (consumption — antidumping/countervailing), and Type 06 (consumption — foreign trade zone) entries. Shipments under $2,500 qualify for informal entry — we handle these too, often same day.

ISF Filing (10+2)

Importer Security Filing must be submitted 24 hours before vessel departure. Late or missing ISF carries a $5,000 per violation penalty. Aurora files ISF for all ocean shipments as part of standard clearance — no extra charge.

FDA, USDA & PGA Coordination

Many commodities require review by Partner Government Agencies (PGAs). We coordinate FDA Prior Notice for food/drug imports, USDA APHIS permits for agricultural goods, EPA compliance for vehicles and chemicals, and FCC declarations for electronics.

Exam & Holds Management

CBP selects approximately 3–5% of entries for examination. We coordinate CET (Cargo Examination Terminal), tailgate exams, VACIS imaging, and intensive exams on your behalf — minimizing delays and handling all CBP communication.

Duty & MPF Calculation

We calculate all applicable duties, Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF), and any Section 301, 232, or 201 tariffs. We also identify trade agreement benefits (USMCA, KORUS, etc.) to legally reduce your duty liability.