Under the new Focused Assessment Program, the starting point for Customs’ investigation will be the internal compliance procedures established by each company. Customs expects these procedures to be in writing and to be actually used by the importer. To verify this, Customs will test procedures and interview personnel to confirm use of specific policies. Companies with no written procedures, or with inadequate procedures, will face a much more detailed and time-consuming audit.

Global can work with your company to prepare a comprehensive procedures manual that meets all of Customs requirements. In building compliance procedures, our first step is to document current company procedures. We then identify any weaknesses in those procedures and work with your staff to develop new procedures that meet Customs’ requirements and are workable for your employees. Comprehensive and detailed compliance procedures save your company money by reducing audit costs, identifying costly entry errors and reducing the cost and expense associated with training personnel.

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