Question 1

What is a customs broker and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A licensed customs broker is authorized by CBP to help importers clear goods through US Customs. While not legally required for all shipments, a broker ensures correct classification, duty calculation, and timely filing — avoiding costly delays, fines, or seized cargo.

Question 2

How do I get started with Aurora?

Accepted Answer

Simply request a free quote on our /quote page or contact us directly. We'll assign you a dedicated broker, set up your client portal account, and walk you through the onboarding process — typically completed in under 24 hours.

Question 3

Are you open 24/7?

Accepted Answer

Yes — operations run 24/7 so we can file and clear cargo at any hour. Office hours are for phone calls: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–6:00 PM ET and Saturday 9:00 AM–1:00 PM ET. Sundays are emergency-only for calls. Email and the portal are monitored around the clock.

Question 4

What is an Importer of Record (IOR)?

Accepted Answer

The Importer of Record is the entity legally responsible for ensuring imported goods comply with US laws and paying all applicable duties and taxes. This is typically the buyer or consignee listed on the commercial invoice.

Question 5

Do I need a customs bond?

Accepted Answer

Yes — any commercial shipment valued over $2,500 requires a CBP bond. You can choose a single-entry bond (for one-time imports) or a continuous bond (recommended if you import more than a few times per year). Aurora handles bond procurement for you.

Question 6

What types of shipments does Aurora handle?

Accepted Answer

We handle air freight, ocean FCL (full container load), ocean LCL (less than container load), and truck/ground cross-border shipments. We work with ports across the US including LA, New York, Chicago, Miami, Houston, and Seattle.

Question 7

What documents do I need to import goods into the US?

Accepted Answer

The standard set includes: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (ocean) or Airway Bill (air), and CBP Entry Form (prepared by your broker). Additional documents may be required depending on the commodity — such as FDA Prior Notice, USDA permits, or a Certificate of Origin.

Question 8

What is an ISF and when is it due?

Accepted Answer

The Importer Security Filing (ISF, or '10+2') is required for ocean shipments to the US. It must be filed at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port. Late or missing ISF filings can result in fines of up to $5,000 per violation.

Question 9

What information goes on a commercial invoice?

Accepted Answer

Your commercial invoice must include: seller and buyer name/address, description of goods, quantity, unit price, total value, country of origin, currency, Incoterms, and HS code (recommended). Aurora will flag any missing information before filing.

Question 10

Do I need a Certificate of Origin?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate of Origin is required when claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements such as USMCA (Mexico/Canada), or when the importing country's regulations require it. Aurora will advise you based on your specific commodity and origin country.

Question 11

How are import duties calculated?

Accepted Answer

Import duties are calculated as a percentage of the customs value (typically the commercial invoice value including insurance and freight). The rate depends on the HS code of your product and the country of origin. Additional Section 301 tariffs may apply to goods from China.

Question 12

What is an HS code and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The Harmonized System (HS) code is a standardized numerical system used worldwide to classify traded products. Your HS code determines your duty rate, any trade restrictions, and whether additional permits are needed. Incorrect classification is one of the most common — and costly — customs errors.

Question 13

What are Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods?

Accepted Answer

Section 301 tariffs are additional duties imposed by the US on goods originating from China, ranging from 7.5% to 100%+ depending on the product category. These are layered on top of standard duty rates. Aurora monitors tariff changes and advises clients proactively.

Question 14

Can I avoid paying duties by splitting shipments?

Accepted Answer

No — this is called 'undervaluation' or 'splitting' and is illegal. CBP actively looks for this pattern. The de minimis threshold ($800) applies per person per day, not per shipment. Aurora advises on legal duty minimization strategies like first sale valuation and FTZ use.

Question 15

What is the de minimis threshold?

Accepted Answer

Shipments valued at $800 USD or less per person per day are generally exempt from duties and formal entry requirements under the de minimis rule. However, Section 301 tariff exclusions and certain regulated goods (FDA, USDA) are not exempt regardless of value.

Question 16

How long does customs clearance take?

Accepted Answer

Most shipments clear within 1–3 business days if all documents are in order. Air freight typically clears in 24–48 hours. Ocean shipments may take 2–5 days. Exams (physical or document review) can add 3–10 business days. Aurora's average clearance time is 36 hours.

Question 17

What causes customs delays?

Accepted Answer

Common causes include: missing or incorrect documents, CBP exam selection (random or flagged), FDA/USDA holds, unpaid duties from previous shipments, and incomplete ISF filings. Aurora proactively reviews all documents before filing to minimize holds.

Question 18

What is a CBP exam and how long does it take?

Accepted Answer

CBP may select any shipment for examination — either a document review (CFETE) or physical inspection. Document exams typically take 1–3 days. Physical exams (where cargo is unloaded and inspected) can take 3–10+ business days and may incur additional costs.

Question 19

Can I expedite customs clearance?

Accepted Answer

There is no official way to pay for faster CBP processing. However, working with a licensed broker who files correctly the first time, maintains a clean importer history, and responds quickly to CBP requests is the most effective way to minimize clearance time.

Question 20

How does Aurora charge for its services?

Accepted Answer

Aurora charges a flat brokerage fee per entry, plus pass-through costs (duties, taxes, exam fees, port charges). You'll receive an itemized invoice for every shipment. Fees vary by shipment complexity — get an instant estimate on our /quote page.

Question 21

When do I pay duties and taxes?

Accepted Answer

Duties and taxes are typically due at the time of entry or within 10 business days of cargo release, depending on your bond type. Aurora will notify you of the exact amount before release and can handle payment on your behalf.

Question 22

What payment methods does Aurora accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept ACH bank transfer, credit/debit card, and wire transfer through our secure client portal. Payments are processed via Stripe. We do not accept cash or checks.

Question 23

Can I get a monthly consolidated invoice?

Accepted Answer

Yes — clients with continuous bonds and regular import volume can request monthly consolidated billing. Contact your broker to set this up after your first three shipments.

Question 24

Which US ports does Aurora cover?

Accepted Answer

Aurora files entries at all major US ports of entry including Los Angeles/Long Beach, New York/Newark, Chicago O'Hare, Miami, Houston, Seattle/Tacoma, Savannah, and more. We cover all 48 contiguous states.

Question 25

Is the Port of Los Angeles different from Long Beach?

Accepted Answer

They are adjacent ports operated by different entities but both serve the San Pedro Bay complex — the largest port complex in the US. Most ocean carriers call both. Aurora handles entries at both ports under the same process.

Question 26

What is a Free Trade Zone (FTZ)?

Accepted Answer

A Foreign Trade Zone is a designated area where goods can be imported, stored, and processed without formal CBP entry or duty payment until they enter US commerce. FTZs are useful for manufacturers and distributors who re-export a portion of their goods.

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