Customs bond

A bond is bought from a CBP-approved surety company, usually through your customs broker, and comes in two forms. A single transaction bond covers one entry and is generally set at no less than the entered value plus duties, taxes and fees. A continuous bond covers all entries for a year; per CBP guidance, its amount is 10% of the duties, taxes and fees paid in the previous 12 months, with a minimum of $50,000 (as of 2026).

If you plan more than a few US shipments a year, a continuous bond is usually cheaper, and it also covers your ISF filings. Order it well before the first container sails, since processing takes time. Include the bond premium in your landed cost calculation.