Customs & Compliance Quick Studies

Opportunity 1

Large importer of lightning protection and grounding products had been importing steel threaded rods from China for many years. In Oct 08, International Trade Commission (ITC) issued a preliminary anti dumping determination on such products, dumping rate ranged from 91% to over 200%. Since US Customs issued the preliminary determination under an expired tariff code, no warning was flagged in ABI to alert brokers on the anti dumping case.

Solution 1

Griffin had been monitoring closely on new anti dumping investigation, and was able to alert importer timely on the preliminary determination on steel threaded rods. Importers took immediate action and cancelled all pending orders with foreign suppliers to avoid potential anti-dumping duties. For containers that were on the water already, Griffin had arranged the trans-loading, T&E paperwork, and exportation to a new buyer in Canada. Over $150,000 USD of potential anti-dumping duties had been saved.

Opportunity 2

The purchasing department of a medical supplies company placed an order with a Chinese manufacturer who had limited knowledge on FDA requirements. The first batch of shipments arrived at the port of Baltimore, MD and was held by FDA. Expensive demurrage would start in 5 days.

Solution 2

Griffin worked closely with the importer and assisted the Chinese manufacturer in satisfying all FDA requirements within a very short time frame. Griffin helped the manufacturer to register with FDA and list all the medical devices in FDA system. All containers were released before demurrage incurred. To avoid similar scenario from happening again, Griffin assisted the importer in establishing an SOP (standard operating procedure) on importation of medical supplies and general FDA requirements.

Opportunity 3

Global Technology Company begins global deployment of its new product line. One of the primary markets is Canada. Sales terms to Canadian end-users and/or distributors are agreed as DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). Shipments are dispatched via priority and deferred air services, with time definite delivery requirements. As cargo crosses border client encounters consistent delays with Canadian Customs, losing control of delivery process and ability to effectively service the market.

Solution 3

Griffin worked with client to develop a cost effective supply chain program into Canada that effectively managed the transport and delivery of product to door on a time definite basis, all via a single point of contact for the client that included “on the ground” support at destination.

Opportunity 4 

Large US exporter of electronic measurement & testing equipment has been exporting goods to its EU subsidiary for some years. During process of sale at transfer price, EU sub pays VAT. Goods are distributed from sub to other EU end users. Client learns through consultation with Griffin there is an opportunity to re-claim VAT paid by its EU subsidiary over several years.

Solution 4

Griffin works with exporter on a contingency basis to re-build product transfer and sale activity. Information includes and substantiates value, classification, VAT rates and payment for activity over a period of time. Griffin then applies for VAT refund where applicable, earning final refund for client of nearly USD 300,000.

Opportunity 5

A large US importer/exporter involved in temporary exportation into Canada for testing and exhibition purposes. Their current Customs broker was not able handle this project as they don’t have the network and experience in temporary exportation and importation into Canada. Shipments were delayed; potential business opportunity and revenue were lost.

Solution 5

Griffin, with an agent network spanning over 200 countries, quickly developed a solution. Temporary exportation and re-importation were achieved with the use of a Carnet. With a single phone call to Griffin, customer can now expect a smooth and problem-free transaction, from shipment pick up and issuance of Carnet to delivery and clearance in Canada.