Exhibiting in a U.S. Trade Show: Consider a Temporary Import Bond

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By Aimee Miller, May 02, 2013

What is a Temporary Importation Under Bond (TIB)?

A Temporary Import Bond (TIB) is a special entry type that is used when products are imported  into the United States without the payment of duty or Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), by posting a bond to ensure that the goods will be exported within a specified time. The TIB bond amount is usually twice the estimated duty, taxes, etc.

Types of shipments imported temporarily:

• Trade shows
• Conventions
• Training
• Assembly
• Processing
• Re-export after resale
• Repair or replacement of damaged goods

Temporary Bond Exportation Requirements:

Products imported under a TIB can remain in the United States without the payment of duty for up to a year. These goods must be properly exported out of the country prior to the expiration date of the bond to avoid a penalty. The one year period for export can be extended upon approval from U.S.  Customs. Some TIB provisions allow for the bond period to be extended for three years with the exception of the following TIB provisions:

1. Shipments covered under 9813.00.75 (autos and parts for show purposes), may not exceed six months and an extension will not be granted.
2. Shipments covered under 9813.00.50 (tools of trade), if seized by Customs for reasons other than by suit of private persons, have the requirement of exportation suspended during the period of seizure.

In order to avoid liquidated damages, the importer of record must present proof of export to U.S. Customs.  U.S. Customs accepts the following as proof of export.

1. Customs Form 3495 Application for Exportation of Articles Under Special Bond
2. Certified copy of the entry that the goods are being imported to (Canadian B3)
3. Certified copy of the bill of lading

Relief from liability may also be obtained when goods imported under a TIB are destroyed under Customs supervision.  The article must have no commercial value whatsoever if it is to be considered destroyed.

Goods Eligible for TIB Entry:

The only goods that qualify for TIB entry are those listed in subheadings 9813.00.05 through 9813.00.75 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and can be found here.

Common Mistakes Entering TIB:

The most common mistakes made when entering goods under a Temporary Import Bond include:

• Failing to indicate on the shipping documentation or notifying your customs broker that the shipment you are sending is a temporary import.
• Failing to properly document and re-export or destroy the articles. When this happens, the bond or security deposit is forfeited and the importer bears the duty and tax expense.

ABC Customs Brokers can file a TIB and obtain a bond on your behalf. We can also assist in the export and closure of your TIB with U.S. Customs. Contact us for more information or to get set up.