CBP Seeks Comments on Info Collection on Duty-Free Treatment of Returned Goods

CBP is requesting comments by Nov. 20 for an existing information collection concerning CBP protest forms. CBP proposes to extend the expiration date of this information collection with no change to the burden hours or to the information collected. The notice ran in the Federal Register Sept. 21.

CBP Form 3311

Declaration for Free Entry of Returned American Products is used by importers and their agents when duty-free entry is claimed for a shipment of returned U.S. products under the Harmonized Tariff Schedules of the U.S. It serves as a declaration that the goods are American made and that (a) they have not been advanced in value or improved in condition while abroad, (b) were not previously entered under a Temporary Importation Under Bond provision, and (c) drawback was never claimed and/or paid. The form is available (here).

CBP Estimates 12,000 Respondents at Six Minutes per Response

CBP estimates there will be 420,000 responses per year from 12,000 respondents. The time per response is estimated to be six minutes. CBP estimates the total annual burden hours will be 42,000.

Comments Requested on Ways to Minimize Burden, Etc.

CBP is asking for comments from the general public and other federal agencies on (a) whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the agency’s estimates of the burden of the collection of information; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; (d) ways to minimize the burden, including the use of automated collection techniques or the use of other forms of information technology; and (e) the annual costs burden to respondents or record keepers from the collection of information (a total of capital/startup costs and operations and maintenance costs).

CBP Contact -- Tracey Denning (202) 325-0265