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Importer FAQ

Good questions. Clear next steps.

Practical guidance for preparing a shipment and working with Kartash. For a decision about your own goods, contact the team with the shipment details.

14 questions

What should I send before my first shipment?

Start with a product description, country of origin, shipment mode, expected arrival and commercial invoice if available. Kartash will review the proposed import, confirm the onboarding documents and identify additional product information. Contact us before cargo departs whenever possible.

What does a customs power of attorney authorize?

The POA authorizes Kartash to perform the customs business described in the document on your behalf. An appropriately authorized person must sign it. Download Kartash’s current POA and ask us how to return it; the initial website inquiry does not create a broker-client relationship or authorize filing.

Do I need an importer number and Form 5106?

CBP uses an importer identity record for customs transactions. Depending on your circumstances, it may use an EIN, another permitted identifier or a CBP-assigned number. Kartash can advise on the correct setup or update. Do not put tax IDs or identity documents in a public inquiry form.

Can a company outside the U.S. import through Kartash?

Foreign importers need a review of importer eligibility, bond arrangements and applicable filing requirements. Contact us with your company’s country and the proposed goods before shipping. Additional CBP requirements can depend on the importer and broker’s status; U.S. incorporation alone is not a substitute for a proper review.

Which shipping documents are usually needed?

A commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading or air waybill are common starting documents. The invoice should clearly identify the goods, quantities, prices, currency, parties and origin information. Product-specific permits, registrations or certificates may also be needed.

When should I arrange an ISF?

For applicable ocean shipments, arrange ISF data before loading overseas. Certain data is generally due no later than 24 hours before lading; other elements and special shipment types have different timing. Send information early so your broker can verify the correct requirements rather than relying on arrival as the deadline.

Does customs release mean the shipment is ready for pickup?

Not always. Another agency may still have a hold, or the carrier, terminal or warehouse may need a freight release, payment or delivery appointment. Confirm all releases and the last free day before arranging pickup.

Can Kartash help with an FDA hold or refusal?

We can review the notice and coordinate the next steps with you and the relevant parties. Send the notice date, shipment reference and product description first. Do not move, relabel, export or destroy held merchandise without confirming the applicable instructions and approvals.

Is the duty calculator a binding duty quote?

No. It is an informational research tool. Classification, origin, entry date, product scope and special conditions can change the result. AD/CVD is not included in its Possible total duty. Have the complete shipment reviewed before making a purchasing or filing decision.

Is the customs bond amount the amount I pay?

No. The bond amount is its coverage limit. The premium charged by the surety is separate, and collateral or underwriting may be required. A bond does not replace payment of duties and does not limit your customs obligations to the premium.

Should I use a continuous or single transaction bond?

It depends on shipment frequency, anticipated duties and taxes, goods and agency requirements, and surety approval. Use the estimator as a planning aid, then ask Kartash to review the appropriate bond type and amount. An ISF bond may need separate consideration.

Can I recover duty that was paid incorrectly?

Possibly. The right process depends on the entry, payment, liquidation status, legal basis and filing deadline. A correction, protest, drawback or other authorized process may apply. A refund cannot be promised from an HTS code or invoice alone.

Can you handle clearance and freight together?

Kartash provides customs brokerage and global logistics coordination. Tell us the origin, destination, cargo details and timing so we can discuss clearance, ocean freight, inland transportation and delivery needs together.

How do I request a freight rate or make a payment?

Use the Rates page for a freight request and the Make a Payment link for the existing payment service. For a customs clearance quote, use Start importing or Contact and describe the proposed shipment. Do not send banking details through a general inquiry.

General information for planning only. Requirements depend on the goods, parties and entry date. Verify current agency instructions and have Kartash review your shipment before filing or relying on an estimate.

Have a question about your goods?

Tell us what you are importing and where it is coming from. We’ll help identify the next step.

Ask Kartash →

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