Formal and Informal Entry

Any time a shipment is imported into the U.S. an entry has to be filed to declare required information to U.S. Customs. A typical customs entry will fall into either formal or informal category. The difference between the two types of entries is the dollar amount. There are restrictions on certain tariff numbers, but typically, if the “Total Entered Value” is less than $2,500, it will be considered an informal entry; whereas Total Entered Value exceeds $2,500, it will be considered a formal entry.
Most ports do not require informal entries to be bonded; however, at the discretion of port directors, bond may be required. Please contact us for more information regarding our local port requirements.