Section 321 entry allows shipments valued at $800 or less to enter the United States without incurring customs duties or taxes. This provision simplifies the import process, eliminating the need for formal customs entry and paperwork for eligible goods. It provides a clear benefit for low-value shipments by enabling faster clearance and reducing costs. Customs authorities use Section 321 to facilitate trade by exempting certain small shipments from complex entry requirements. However, recent changes and potential shifts in policy mean businesses must stay informed to maintain compliance and avoid import disruptions. Understanding how Section 321 customs procedures work is crucial for importers relying on this duty-free pathway.

Understanding Section 321 Entry and Section 321 Customs

Section 321 allows certain low-value shipments to enter the U.S. without formal customs duties or taxes, streamlining the import process for eligible goods. It sets clear limits on shipment value and requires adherence to specific customs rules, affecting clearance and compliance practices.

Definition and Legal Background

Section 321 is part of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act (TFTEA) enacted to simplify customs procedures for low-value imports. It permits shipments valued at $800 or less to enter the U.S. duty- and tax-free. This provision was designed to reduce administrative burdens and encourage quick clearance. The legal framework limits entry to goods under the defined de minimis threshold, bypassing formal customs entry processes. However, shipments still require clearance by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to verify eligibility. Entry Type 86, a related formal entry, was introduced to handle more detailed data submissions for such shipments, particularly when partner government agency oversight is needed.

Eligibility Criteria

Shipments qualified under Section 321 must satisfy strict conditions: the value must not exceed $800, and the goods should be for personal or commercial use but not restricted or prohibited items. The importer must provide accurate documentation and comply with CBP rules. Certain products, such as alcohol, tobacco, and some agricultural items, are excluded from Section 321 benefits. Additionally, goods subject to partner government agency controls may require different entry types. Only U.S.-bound shipments from foreign countries meeting these criteria can use Section 321 to avoid formal entry and associated fees.

Import Limits and Restrictions

The key limit under Section 321 is the $800 value ceiling per shipment, based on the fair retail value in the origin country. Shipments exceeding this amount must go through formal customs entry, paying applicable duties and taxes.

Even within the value limit, restrictions apply. For example, goods must comply with U.S. safety, health, and regulatory standards. Customs clearance is still required to confirm compliance, although simplified compared to standard entries. Shipments exceeding Section 321 limits face longer clearance times, higher costs, and require full customs documentation.

Compliance Requirements for Section 321

Ensuring compliance with Section 321 requires careful attention to filing steps, proper documentation, and avoiding common errors. Specific rules govern how shipments are reported and recorded to qualify for duty-free entry. Proper management reduces risks of delays and penalties.

Filing Procedures

Section 321 entries must be submitted electronically through the Automated Broker Interface (ABI) or an equivalent customs system. Importers need to use the designated entry type — often Entry Type 86 — which identifies shipments qualifying for the de minimis exemption.The filing must include accurate shipment details such as value, description, and country of origin. Carriers and customs brokers play key roles in ensuring timely submission. Failure to submit electronically or using incorrect entry types leads to formal customs entry requirements, negating the Section 321 benefits. The filer must also confirm eligibility based on the shipment’s retail value not exceeding the $800 threshold.

Documentation and Recordkeeping

Maintaining complete and accurate records of Section 321 shipments is mandatory for at least five years. Essential documents include commercial invoices, shipping labels, proof of value, and any correspondence with customs. Records must clearly support the claimed value and origin of goods. They are subject to audit by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at any time. Incomplete or inconsistent documentation can trigger investigations or denial of duty-free status. Importers should implement robust systems to store and organize these documents for easy retrieval.

Common Compliance Mistakes

Common errors include underreporting the shipment value or misclassifying goods to bypass duties. Importers sometimes neglect to verify the eligibility criteria, leading to non-compliance. Another frequent mistake is failing to file electronically or using incorrect entry types, causing shipments to be held for full customs entry. Insufficient recordkeeping and missing documentation often impede CBP audits, resulting in penalties or added fees. Importers should regularly review their processes and train staff on the updated rules to avoid these pitfalls.