There are two main types of import bonds, and choosing the right one depends on how frequently you import. <strong>Single Entry Bond (also called a Single Transaction Bond)</strong> This covers one specific shipment. You purchase it before each import, and it expires once that shipment clears customs. Single entry bonds typically cost between $50 and $100 per shipment for standard commercial goods. They make sense if you import once or twice a year, or if you are testing a new product line with a one-time order. <strong>Continuous Bond (Annual Bond)</strong> This covers all your imports for a full 12-month period. The standard continuous bond costs around $300 to $600 per year for most importers, though the exact amount depends on your annual duty liability. If your total duties for the year exceed $50,000, the bond premium scales up. For any business importing 3 or more shipments per year, a continuous bond saves money and eliminates the hassle of arranging a new bond for every container. Most of our clients who ship FCL or LCL on a regular basis go with the continuous bond. It is active the day it is issued, and our bond partners handle the annual renewal automatically. <strong>What a bond actually covers:</strong> The bond guarantees CBP that you will pay all applicable duties, taxes, and fees on your imported goods. It also guarantees compliance with all CBP regulations, including proper classification, valuation, and marking of your merchandise. If you fail to comply, CBP can make a claim against the bond. The surety company pays CBP, and then they come to you for reimbursement. This is why accurate HTS classification and declared values matter - a bond is not a shield against compliance mistakes, it is a financial guarantee. For sellers importing goods that are subject to anti-dumping or countervailing duties (ADD/CVD), the bond amount may need to be higher. Our partners will evaluate your product categories and advise on the correct bond level.