CBP Issues 'Blanket' Authorization for Immediate Delivery, Updates DIS Guidance

December 15, 2020 by Tim Warren|Top News

CBP is issuing a “blanket” authorization to allow the release of most types of merchandise on or after Dec. 16 through Dec. 31 under Immediate Delivery (ID) procedures, it said in a CSMS message. Many entry filers make regular use of ID procedures for fresh fruits and vegetables and other merchandise from Mexico and Canada, etc.

CBP also issued an updated guidance for using the Document Imaging System (DIS) for ID requests. Currently, ACE “is not programmed to process ID requests in Cargo Release nor Entry Summary,” it said. “Please note, the Cargo Release Immediate Delivery Indicator does not effectively request ID procedures for an entry. Until programming is complete in ACE, importers/brokers must follow” the other procedures outlined in the guidance.

Allows Any 2021 HTS Changes to Be Available Early

This “blanket” authorization allows filers of eligible goods released during the period of Dec. 16-31 to file using the interim Harmonized Tariff Schedule changes, which take effect on or after Jan. 1, 2021.

Instructions for ABI and Paper Entries

Automated Broker Interface (ABI) entry transmissions, including the “paperless” provisional messages, “establish the desired entry date by using the estimated entry date in the summary transmission (“AE” transmissions). This will identify the change from 'Entry' to 'Immediate Delivery' and will allow filers to elect a date of entry in order to take advantage of tariff changes or special programs,” CBP said. “Please submit a notification that you are taking advantage of this authorization to the Center Director and via the Document Image System (DIS) prior to release. Under ID procedures, the entry/entry summary must be filed within 10 working days after release. This authorization only extends to shipments released December 16, 2020 through December 31, 2020. No grace period will be granted for the purpose of timely filing ID entry summaries under this one-time allowance.”

Restrictions on Use of These Blanket ID Procedures

The following restrictions have been placed on the use of these blanket ID procedures:

Merchandise moved under an Immediate Transportation entry (type 61) is not eligible for this blanket authorization.
Tariff rate quota (TRQ) merchandise previously authorized for ID release under 19 CFR 142.21(e) may still be released under ID. However, the entry summary shall be presented within the time specified in 19 CFR 142.23 (i.e., within 10 working days after the merchandise or any part of the merchandise is authorized for release) or within the quota period, whichever expires first.