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Tariff Consulting Services

Tariff Consulting Services

Navigating the complexities of tariffs and trade regulations can be daunting for logistics professionals, but Shapiro is here to simplify the process. Our comprehensive tariff consulting services are designed to help you minimize costs, ensure compliance, and uncover savings opportunities. From classification reviews to tariff engineering strategies, we provide actionable insights tailored to your business needs. Trust Shapiro to guide you through the intricate world of tariffs with expertise and precision.

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Proactive Communications

Tariffs & Exclusion Processing

Classification Advisories

Tariff Engineering

Binding Rulings

CF28 & CF29 Review

PGA & ADD/CVD Analysis

Import/Export Process Review

Check Out What Our Customers Have to Say About Us:

"Our upper management wanted us to be CTPAT. We had no idea what direction we needed to go or the time to do anything additional with our daily jobs, so we contacted our broker, Shapiro, and they walked us through the entire process. Shapiro has been CTPAT certified since 2003 and assists companies with the CTPAT process. It was a process, but we made it through with Shapiro’s help. When we went through the risk assessment and mapped our supply chain, we really learned a lot and tightened up some of the areas. Being CTPAT certified means that the importer has met the requirements set by CBP to establish secure practices within its supply chain. This process helped us to align our procedures in country with our foreign facilities. The benefits of CTPAT are already coming to fruition with fewer exams, and upper management is happy now that we are certified."
"Our new CFO asked why in the world aren’t we doing drawback? Well, I wasn’t sure what drawback was. I looked into it at one point, but the regulations are confusing, and I didn’t understand what a waiver of prior notice was and what accelerated payment was. It was all Greek to me. So, when asked, I contacted our broker, Shapiro, and they spent time explaining some of the aspects of drawback that applied to our company. They presented a solution that helped us get a drawback program together. Duty refunds are coming in via accelerated payment and our new CFO couldn’t be happier!"
"We are a publicly traded retailer. When the 2018 tariffs hit, Shapiro helped us understand the concept of tariff engineering: a strategy that allows import of products subject to high duties or trade remedy tariffs to design or modify products to legally take advantage of classifications carrying lower or free rate of duty. We identified several items that were hit by the tariffs and carried a high rate of duty, and we sent a list to Shapiro for review. Shapiro helped us understand what attributes would drive the classification under a certain provision, for example, material, intended use, or purpose, and they provided suggestions on how the products could be re-designed and legally classified under a different provision that carried a lower duty rate. Shapiro backed up their advisory with Custom ruling numbers, chapter notes, section notes and explanatory notes."
"Receiving a CF28 from Customs could be a tense experience. We knew that we had to make sure we had all of our ducks in a row before we replied to Customs, and we are so thankful Shapiro was there to help us along the way. The CF28 was asking for information on exporter and manufacturer parties for several entries. With that information alone, Shapiro quickly identified that CBP was looking for possible Anti-Dumping and Countervailing applicability on a specific product. Shapiro helped us gather entry data, organizing and presenting them in an easy-to-follow spreadsheet. They also helped us put the entry packets together and highlight the specific entry summary lines and products in each commercial invoice and 7501. Shapiro’s amazing professionals went above and beyond and ran reports to capture and audit any other entry that was not listed in the CF28 that may have been affected by that specific issue. They also helped us find scope rulings from the department of commerce confirming that a certain type of product would be excluded from that ADD/CVD case; and they uploaded all the documentation into DIS. Shapiro made our experience so much better, and it gave us confidence to reply to Customs in a very thorough, and timely manner."
"As an importer of record, we understand we must use reasonable care in the classification and entry of merchandise to ensure accuracy and avoid potential delays and penalties. We also understand that classification of merchandise is often complex and that it is a good idea to review them periodically. For this reason, the decision to hire Shapiro to review our entire catalogue of products (over 1,000 items) was a no brainer for us. We knew we could count on Shapiro’s help, even for this number of items! Their experienced compliance consulting professionals helped us navigate through the complexities of merchandise classification. They gathered products’ material composition, image and function, they asked us specific questions about the products and indicated if they agreed with the current classification we were using or not. Whenever there was a classification discrepancy, they provided specific and detailed information to back up their choice and explain why they classified in a certain way. For example, they provided Customs ruling numbers, chapter notes explanatory note.. They also established a series of weekly meetings, so that we could closely meet the classification team that was working on this project for us, and we could ask questions along the way. A true example of customer service, offering us the support we need and transparency."
"We are an importer of party favors, and we import products that are processed in different countries. We understand that determining the correct country of origin is key to our operations and import processes because certain duties and taxes are assessed depending on the origin of the product. Assigning the correct country of origin is definitely not straight forward for some of the products we have! This particular product had components and materials sourced from 4 different countries while assembly and some manufacturing operations would be completed in a 5th country. Shapiro helped us understand the rules for submitting a binding to Customs, they helped gather details on the manufacturing process, including photos and step by step on what happens in each country. Shapiro took all the details provided, prepared a formal binding ruling request, collected samples, and submitted the ruling request to Customs on our behalf. Shapiro also sent the sample for us, and closely monitored progress. After a short period of time (less than 30 days), Shapiro received a response for the binding ruling, and it was a favorable one to us. No additional tariffs from that country of origin!"
"We are a publicly traded retailer. When the 2018 tariffs hit, Shapiro came to our rescue. They ran reports based on HTS code that might be eligible for exclusions; they reviewed the product description and literature and compared it against the exclusions description and communicated with us along the way. But they didn’t stop there! If an item met the exclusion description, they ran more reports to identify past entries that may be eligible for refunds. Then, with our approval, they filed Post Summary Corrections (PSCs) and protests and monitored every filing until liquidation. With Shapiro’s help, we established a proactive classification process. Here, they review our products for classification and admissibility prior to import, so we can make an informed decision about whether we want to import the product. The added bonus? They thought about checking for exclusions eligibility when the part is created, and updated our parts table accordingly at that time; so the exclusion is applied correctly at the time of entry!"
"Keeping up with all the different government agencies and their regulations is not an easy task! It’s wonderful how we can count on Shapiro’s help with this. During our classification review process with Shapiro, they also conducted a PGA review which consisted of evaluating for all PGA flags attached to a certain classification. We were importing lights and we had no idea that LEDs were regulated by the FDA. Shapiro indicated that information in the project spreadsheet they were preparing for us, which gave us the tools we needed to understand what we had to do to be in compliance. Shapiro also educated us on Lacey requirements for wooden items that we had in our catalogue, and what we had to do as a company to be in compliance with the Lacey regulations. They offered a very informative webinar on Lacey, and we feel that we are prepared now!"
"We are a company that prefers to avoid any and all Anti-dumping and Countervailing activities. Shapiro helped us understand the risk of importing ADD/CVD commodities, how it can affect our bond, and how it poses an open liability for years and years to come. For this reason, we partnered with the highly professional licensed customs brokers at Shapiro to help us stay informed, keep an eye on new investigations, and evaluate our new products. Shapiro does an excellent job at monitoring all new investigations and running entry reports to help us identify what products may be affected. This us huge for us! They are certainly a partner we can count on to avoid any compliance surprises. In addition to reviewing all new investigations, they evaluate our new item numbers for possible ADD/CVD, that way, we can decide not to order or ship an item if it is found that they are subject to ADD/CVD duties."
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Proactive Communications

At Shapiro, we understand that staying ahead of regulatory changes is critical to your business. That’s why we’re committed to keeping you informed and prepared for every update in the complex world of trade compliance.

Our team continuously monitors the Federal Register, new anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations, additional PGA requirements, HTS updates, trade remedies, and exclusions. When changes arise, we ensure you’re the first to know.

The 301 Tariffs & Exclusion Processing

Whether you’re exploring the eligibility of exclusions or looking to claim refunds on past entries, Shapiro is here to make the process seamless and effective. We proactively analyze your transactions to identify entries eligible for exclusions. From gathering specification sheets and documentation to processing Post Summary Corrections (PSCs) or Protests, we handle it all. Remember, exclusions don’t always align directly with HTS codes—our expertise ensures no opportunity is overlooked.

The result? A stress-free path to duty refunds while we monitor the process through final liquidation.

Classification Advisories

Importers must use “reasonable care” (a legal term!) in the classification and entry of their merchandise. Shapiro’s experienced compliance consulting professionals help you navigate through the complexities of merchandise classification. We gather products’ material composition, image and function, the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs); and we review any relevant Customs rulings, explanatory notes and/or court cases as applicable to assign the correct classification. Whether you have five items to be reviewed or 500, we are here to help. We do recommend that all classifications be reviewed periodically to ensure you are current with regulatory changes, new rulings, provision changes, HTS changes, etc.

We offer several different classification services:

  • A la carte: You identify a list of products that need to be classified and/or evaluated, and we review them individually.
  • Complete Catalogue Review: We evaluate a complete catalogue or database of products along with the current HTS being used. We then indicate whether we agree with the current classification and provide well supported reasoning. As part of your reasonable care responsibilities, we make certain to document and maintain the reasoning for each classification. This thorough exercise accomplishes that lofty goal.
  • Classification Advisory Module (CAM): For customers with fewer than 50 items, our Classification Advisory Module (CAM) is a great solution. CAM is a portal that captures all relevant information about a product, such as country of origin, product composition, uploaded specifications (if available), and how the item is marketed. Our team of licensed Customs brokers then reviews the information and, if any clarification is necessary, communicates with you via this repository. Our goal is to evaluate your products for classification and admissibility proactively, well in advance of shipment arrival. The best of both worlds: the convenience of digital, supported by “brainial!”

Deeper Dive Classification Analysis: Tariff Engineering

Tariff engineering is becoming increasingly relevant as new US tariffs are proposed or heightened on various Chinese imports (for example). This strategy involves designing or modifying products, often by altering components or assembly processes, to reduce the duty rate by reclassifying the products under different tariff categories. Imagine a product is assembled in a specific way or includes easily substituted materials; it could potentially be classified under a tariff code with a lower rate or under a completely exempt category. Or, a modest product modification may be the right path. We will strategically review your products and provide solid recommendations for exacting classifications and/or product re-designs that may result in more favorable duty treatment.

Binding Ruling Services: Classification and Country of Origin

Have you been in a situation when you were uncertain of an HTS classification, of country of origin, or if your products qualify under a specific trade agreement? A binding ruling may be a good option for you—and we can help!

Binding rulings are authoritative decisions issued by US Customs (CBP) that clarify the classification, country of origin, or applicability of trade-related regulations for specific goods. These rulings provide importers with legal certainty regarding the duties, taxes, or other requirements for their products before they enter the United States. Once issued, a ruling binds both CBP and the importer, ensuring consistent treatment of the product across all US ports of entry, which helps prevent costly disputes and delays. Our services include preparation of your argument, submission of the ruling request, and steady follow-up.

Request for Information (CF28) & Notice of Action (CF29) Review

Customs Forms 28 and 29 are critical communication tools used by US Customs to address potential concerns with imported goods. The CF28 is typically issued when CBP seeks clarification on an importer’s declarations, classification, valuation, or compliance with various regulations. Receiving a CF28 does not necessarily indicate a violation but suggests CBP requires more details to ensure accuracy and compliance.

In contrast, a CF29 signals a more serious concern. It informs the importer of an intended action or an action already taken, such as a rate advance, tariff reclassification, or penalty imposition due to noncompliance. Together, these forms are often early indicators of heightened scrutiny from CBP and can highlight areas where an importer’s practices may require adjustments to avoid future penalties or shipment delays. These notices should be taken as seriously as receiving “mixed news” from your doctor!

Serious only begins to describe Shapiro’s process for CF28s and CF29s! If we receive the forms, they are logged, investigated, and followed to resolution. Typically, our customers need only notify us to provide CF28 clarifications or CF29 remediation consulting.

Deeper Dive, Admissibility Reviews: PGA & ADD/CVD Analysis

In addition to deep classification analysis, Shapiro conducts admissibility reviews by crosschecking for PGA flags and ADD/CVD flags.

PGA In-depth Research: Participating Government Agency (PGA) requirements have become extremely (exceedingly?) complex. If you face a challenge, please reach out to us. We are more than qualified to assist in evaluating your product or product base to ensure compliance with PGA regulatory requirements.

ADD/CVD In-depth Scope Review: Antidumping (AD) and countervailing duties (CVD) are trade remedies applied to protect domestic industries from unfair competition due to foreign goods being sold below fair market value (dumping) or benefiting from government subsidies (countervailing). When evidence suggests that foreign goods are priced to harm US industries or benefit from subsidies, the International Trade Administration (ITA) and the US International Trade Commission (ITC) conduct investigations. If findings are affirmative, the ITA issues AD/CVD orders instructing U.S. Customs and Border Protection to collect duties on those goods.

As of early 2024, the US has enacted over 600 AD and CVD orders, with a significant number of active investigations across dozens of varied industry verticals. These actions are regularly reviewed to assess their continued relevance and impact on US industries. Enforcement is ongoing, with regular administrative, sunset, and circumvention reviews conducted by the ITA and ITC to adjust or terminate orders as needed. Shapiro is constantly monitoring new cases as they arise and is more than able and willing to assist in evaluating your product against AD/CVD scope reviews, both current and proposed.

Import/Export Process Review

Are you interested in ensuring that your import and export process is comprehensive and compliant? Allow us to help! Shapiro’s import and export process reviews examine the sufficiency of recordkeeping and the adequacy of internal controls maintained by the shipper over its Customs activities. The review is intended to identify and reduce risk and to offer suggestions, where needed, further demonstrating a commitment to import compliance.

Explore Our Other Offerings

Logistics Management

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Real-Time Shipment and Document Tracking

Freight Forwarding

Get Your Products to Market Cheaper and Faster

Regulatory Compliance

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Relieve the Worry of Complying with Customs

Customs Brokerage

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Get Help Filing Entries, Paying Duties and Fees

How to Crack the HTS Code on Product Classifications

Want to learn more about product classification and HTS codes? Look no further! In this blog, we run through the basics of HTS codes, tariff engineering, product classification, and more!

Learn More >
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