Customs & Trade Compliance Glossary

Every container that enters the United States passes through a system of bonds, filings, classifications, and inspections. If you import goods for resale or manufacturing, understanding customs and trade compliance terminology is not optional. It is the difference between cleared freight and detained freight.

This glossary breaks down the terms you will encounter when working with customs brokers, filing ISFs, classifying products under HS codes, and managing duty obligations. Whether you are a first-time importer or running high-volume ocean shipments, these definitions reflect the language used by CBP, brokers, and freight partners daily.

Getting the classification wrong on an HS code can trigger additional duties, hold your goods at the port, or result in penalties from CBP. Bond requirements, ISF filing deadlines, and exam fees all carry real financial consequences. Knowing how these pieces connect helps you plan costs, avoid surprises, and keep your supply chain on schedule.

MeisterPrep operates bonded warehouse facilities and works alongside customs brokers and freight forwarders to move your goods from port to shelf. Our teams in Long Beach, Des Plaines, Houston, and Charleston handle the receiving, inspection, and prep that happens right after customs clearance.

Customs and Trade Compliance Terms

Customs Authorities and Programs

• CBP (Customs and Border Protection)
• CTPAT (Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism)
• EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification)
• CAIN (Customs Assigned Importer Number)

Bonds and Entry Types

• Customs Bond
• Continuous Bond
• Single Entry Bond
• Bonded Warehouse

Duties, Tariffs, and Drawbacks

• Duty
• Customs Duty
• Tariff
• Duty Drawback
• Customs Value

Classification and Filing

• HS / HTS Codes
• Customs Declaration
• Customs Invoice
• ISF (Importer Security Filing)
• Automated Export System (AES)

Import and Export Roles

• Customs Broker
• Importer of Record (IOR)
• Importer of Record

Export Controls

• Export License
• Export Control Classification Number (ECCN)

Trade Terms and Standards

• IncoTerms (International Commercial Terms)
• Incoterms
• Uniform Customs and Practice (UCP)
• Customs Exam Fee

When your container clears customs, MeisterPrep is ready to receive it. Our facilities handle deconsolidation, inspection, and prep for wherever your goods need to go: Amazon fulfillment centers, retail distribution to chains like Walmart and CVS, B2B wholesale shipments, or direct-to-consumer orders. We work with importers who ship by ocean and air, and our proximity to major ports means your cleared cargo can be on our prep floor the same day it is released.