CBP Seeks Comments on Info Collection for Foreign Assembler Declaration

September 25, 2012 by Tim Warren|Customs

CBP is requesting comments by Nov. 26 for an existing information collection on foreign assembler declarations with endorsement by the importer. CBP proposes to extend the expiration date of this information collection with a change to the burden hours but not the information collected, it said in a notice scheduled to run in the Federal Register Sept. 26.

Foreign Assembler's Declaration

Under 19 CFR 10.24, a Foreign Assembler's Declaration must be made in connection with the entry of assembled articles under subheading 9802.00.80 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule. This declaration includes information such as the quantity, value and description of the imported merchandise. The declaration is made by the person who performed the assembly operations abroad and it includes an endorsement by the importer. The Foreign Assembler’s Declaration is used by CBP to determine whether the operations performed are within the purview of subheading 9802.00.80, HTSUS and therefore eligible for preferential tariff treatment.

CBP Estimates 2,730 Respondents

CBP estimates there will be 2,730 respondents and 128 responses per respondent. The time per response is estimated to be 55 minutes. CBP estimates the total annual burden hours will be 320,251.

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 capital/startup costs and operations and maintenance costs).

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