CBP Releases New Broker Handbook, Announces Webinars on Part 111 Changes

CBP released on Oct. 18 its new handbook on customs broker rules and procedures. The “Customs Broker Guidance for the Trade Community is a “resource for brokers conducting customs business in compliance with CBP regulations,” including information on long-standing requirements for customs brokers as well as new requirements under the Part 111 final rule issued by CBP on Oct. 18 (see 2210170071).

Announced by CBP earlier in October as part of a package of guidance materials slated to accompany the Part 111 final rule (see 2210070057), the new broker handbook includes information on what constitutes customs business, requirements for the customs broker exam and the broker licensing process, broker triennial reports, as well as the new national permit process under the broker modernization regulations.

The handbook also includes chapters explaining processes for the revocation, cancellation or suspension of licenses and permits, and requirements for filer code maintenance. Another chapter details broker oversight processes, including the Part 111 final rule’s new responsible supervision and control requirements, and information on broker compliance reviews and regulatory audits. Another section details broker penalties, and previously issued customs rulings on customs brokerage operations are included in several appendices.

CBP also on Oct. 18 announced two upcoming webinars on the broker modernization final rule. One, to be held Oct. 27, will detail the final rule’s changes to Part 111, while a second on Nov. 9 will include information on “operationalizing” those changes. The agency also issued a new comparison chart listing side-by-side Part 111 customs broker requirements as they existed before the Part 111 final rule, and the amended provisions that take effect Dec. 19.

A fact sheet about the Part 111 final rule was issued Oct. 18 (see 2210180080).