Carnet Claims Archives

Director of ATA Carnet Claims

Published on March 15, 2024

Position: Director of ATA Carnet Claims
Organization: United States Council for International Business
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer
Location: New York City

THE OPPORTUNITY – About USCIB

Founded in 1945, USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence.  Its focus is on international policy in the multilateral system, and its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector, with operations in every region of the world. As the sole American representative of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD, USCIB provides business views to the Administration and to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. In addition, USCIB serves as the National Guaranteeing Association for ATA Carnets, which allows temporary, tax and duty-free imports overseas for trade shows, commercial samples and professional equipment. More at www.uscib.org

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual to fill the position of Director of ATA Carnets Claims. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing and managing claims related to all national and foreign issued carnets. Additionally, the Director will play a crucial role in liaising with CBP (Customs and Border Protection) ports in the United States on ATA Carnet issues and providing essential training to officers involved in the process.

The Director of ATA Carnets plays a vital role in ensuring smooth and compliant handling of ATA Carnet transactions, fostering positive relationships with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) ports, and promoting best practices throughout the organization. If you possess the necessary qualifications and are passionate about international trade and customs compliance, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Oversee and manage the entire claim process for both national and foreign issued ATA Carnets. This includes receiving, reviewing, and processing ATA Carnet claims in accordance with established guidelines and procedures.
  • Work closely with relevant parties (CBP, Holders, Service Providers, Foreign National Guaranteeing Associations) to resolve claims efficiently and effectively.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for inquiries related to ATA Carnet claims and procedures. Provide expert guidance and support to internal staff, Customs officials, and other stakeholders on matters pertaining to ATA Carnets and claims resolution.
  • Develop and conduct training programs for U.S. Customs officials on the proper and practical use of ATA Carnets and claims procedures. Educate Customs personnel on the importance of adhering to ATA Carnet regulations and best practices to minimize discrepancies and streamline claim resolution processes.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, laws, and standards governing ATA Carnets and claims processes. Stay informed about changes in regulations and update internal procedures accordingly to always maintain compliance.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency enhancement within the ATA Carnet claims process. Implement initiatives to streamline procedures, reduce errors, and enhance overall effectiveness.
  • Directly manage and mentor a team of claims specialists. Provide guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to ensure the team’s success and individual growth.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of all ATA Carnet claims and related activities. Generate regular reports and analysis to monitor claim trends, identify patterns, and assess overall performance.
  • Prepare reports and analysis as needed to support decision-making and compliance efforts.
  • Stay updated on international trade regulations, industry trends, and developments related to ATA Carnets.
  • Participate in relevant workshops, conferences, and professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Trade, Customs Compliance, or related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in customs compliance, trade operations, or related areas, with a focus on ATA Carnets.
  • Proven experience in staff management, including mentoring, coaching, and performance evaluation.
  • In-depth knowledge of ATA Carnet regulations, procedures, and best practices.
  • Strong understanding of CBP regulations and processes related to customs clearance and international trade.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proven ability to effectively manage projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Demonstrated experience in providing training and facilitating workshops or seminars.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, external partners, and government agencies.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary and title are commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary range for this role is between $85,000 and $115,000 per year, plus bonus. USCIB offers a highly competitive compensation package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k)-retirement company matching program, generous paid time off, and the ability to participate in pre-tax transportation, and flexible spending account programs.

USCIB currently requires in-office work Tuesday – Thursday, with WFH option on Mondays and Fridays.

Apply Now

Applications will be accepted until April 19, 2023.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

India Now Accepting “Merchandise Passports” for Professional Equipment

Published on February 1, 2018

New York, N.Y., January 31, 2018 – India has expanded its use of ATA Carnets for the temporary, duty-free importation of various types of goods. As of January 18, the country is now accepting the widely used “merchandise passports” for professional equipment, according to the United States Council for International Business (USCIB), which administers the ATA system in the United States.

ATA Carnets are internationally recognized customs documents that allow for the temporary importation of various types of goods, duty-free and tax-free, generally for up to one year. India previously accepted Carnets only for goods destined to fairs and exhibitions, for a maximum period of six months. It is now also honoring them for temporary importation of professional equipment for up to two months, with the opportunity to renew for an additional two months.

“This is an important development that will help boost U.S. exports to India, and make it much easier for business travelers to get essential professional equipment in and out of the country,” said Andrew Shiles, USCIB’s senior vice president for ATA Carnet and trade services. “All sorts of people and companies – from news organizations to symphony orchestras to technicians making repairs – use ATA Carnets to move professional equipment around the world swiftly and cost-effectively.”

Additional information on developments in India is available on USCIB’s website at https://uscib.org/india-ud-1614/.

The worldwide ATA Carnet system is overseen by the World Customs Organization and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), for which USCIB serves as the American national committee. Find out more about the services offered by USCIB to facilitate cross-border trade and investment at www.uscib.org.

Contact:
Jonathan Huneke, VP communications, USCIB
+1 212.703.5043 or jhuneke@uscib.org

About USCIB:

The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence. Its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector of our economy, with operations in every region of the world, generating $5 trillion in annual revenues and employing over 11 million people worldwide.

As the U.S. affiliate of several leading international business organizations, including ICC, USCIB provides business views to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide. USCIB also works to facilitate international trade and investment. It is the U.S. national guaranteeing association for ATA Carnets, which enable the temporary export of many types of goods, free of import duties or taxes, for up to one year.

Claims Administration: What Charges Might I Face?

Published on October 21, 2014
Causes  |  Settlement  |  Charges  |  Contact

What Charges Might I Face?

Duties, Taxes and Penalties; Regularization Fees

A Carnet allows the temporary importation of merchandise without the deposit of taxes (e.g., value-added taxes, VAT) and duties or the purchase of an import bond.  With a customs claim for which there is no proof of re-exportation, duties, taxes and usually a penalty (10% of the duty and taxes) will become payable.

This VAT chart is a general reference guide. Actual taxes and duties may vary.

Regularization Fees and Penalties

Foreign customs may charge a Regularization Fee if the re-exportation counterfoil was not validated by a customs inspector upon re-exportation or if proof of re-exportation is submitted more than 6 months after the customs claims date (for the Netherlands ONLY).  The amount of this fee and its application vary from country to country.

Countries known to impose a Regularization Fee are:

Austria104.00 Euros
Netherlands140 Euros
Serbia9450.00 RSD (Serbian Dinars)
As of July 1,2023
Switzerland50 - 250 CHF (Swiss Francs)
Thailand10% of import duties
No<1000 Baht & No>20,000 Baht
Turkey318 TRY (Turkish Lira)

 

Countries known to impose Penalties are:

MalaysiaCompound Charges RMI 1.00 - 5,000.00
Mexico2,070 - 3,120(MXN)
Singapore30 - 5,000 (SGD) and GST/duties where applicable
UAE500 - 5,000 (AED)
Ukraine850 - 17,000 (UAH)

 

USCIB Claims Handling Fees

Effective October 21, 2014:

Claim Payment to Foreign Customs

Claims Handling Fee
(minimum)
$1 to $150$50
$151 to $1,000$100
$1,001 to $2,500$200
$2,501 to $5,000$300
$5,001 to $7,500$400
$7,501 to $10,000$500
Over $10,0005% of the amount paid;
Maximum of $4,000

 

USCIB reserves the right to assess any charges on any claims that require excessive claim Examiners’ time; telephone, facsimile or postage charges; and other situations that cause financial or other loss to USCIB as a result of misuse of an ATA Carnet.

Claims Administration: Causes of a Claim

Published on October 21, 2014
Causes  |  Settlement  |  Charges  |  Contact

What Causes a Claim?

Claims are caused by improper handling of Carnet merchandise.  Here are some examples which may result in a claim:

  • Goods are sold and will remain in the importing country permanently;
  • Goods are stolen or lost;
  • Goods are not re-exported in a timely manner:
  • Re-exported after the expiration of a Carnet from an importing country; or
  • Re-exported after a designated date of re-exportation set by a foreign customs inspector at the time of importation.
  • Indirect proof of re-exportation may cause a claim for countries such as Austria, Singapore, Switzerland, and UAE

Customs authorities have a right to limit the duration of a Carnet to less than the Carnet validity.  When such a restriction is noted on the importation counterfoil of the Carnet, the Holder must ensure that the goods are re-exported on or before that date. The Holder may petition foreign customs for an extension of this date. However, permission must be obtained prior to the designated date of re-exportation. It has been our experience that India, Mexico, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand typically restrict importations on Carnets.

  • Clerical errors made by Carnet Holders or their authorized representatives or customs inspectors, e.g., the handling of split or partial shipments under Carnets.

When Will a Claim be Issued?

A foreign customs authority must issue a claim within twelve months after the Carnet expiration. Working in conjunction with USCIB, Holders have six months from the date of the customs claim notification, within which to provide evidence of re-exportation out of the country issuing the claim. Once a claim is received, the Carnet will not be cancelled and the security against the Carnet will be held until all claims are resolved.

How Will I be Notified?

Upon receipt of a claim from foreign customs, USCIB will verify its validity and will attempt to settle the claim based on the documentation within the Carnet itself.  However, if the necessary evidence is not available, USCIB will send a claim notification letter to the Holder at the address in our file. It is important for Carnet Holders to notify their Service Provider of any changes in address and/or contact people.

Please note that there is a time limit to present evidence to foreign customs. The Holder is expected to assist USCIB’s Claims Examiners in settling the claim by responding promptly to our notifications. The Holder should:

  • Submit all documentary proof to USCIB immediately; or
  • Send written authorization, including Carnet number, to pay the taxes, duties and penalties as assessed by the foreign customs if the merchandise will remain in the importing country permanently; or
  • Contact a Foreign Claims Examiner for further assistance.

Claims Administration: Claims Settlement

Published on October 21, 2014
Causes  |  Settlement  |  Charges  |  Contact

There are two types of Carnet proof that may resolve a Claim:

Carnet Proof

A Re-exportation Counterfoil validated by a customs inspector of the country issuing the claim. The date of customs validation on the counterfoil must be after the date of importation on the claim and before the expiry date of the Carnet.
For the European Union (EU), the Re-exportation Counterfoil may be validated by a custom inspector from any EU country.
If foreign customs accept this type of evidence in settling the claim, payment of taxes and duties is usually not necessary.

  1. A Re-importation or Exportation Voucher/Counterfoil validated by a U.S. Customs inspector which documents the same goods that were imported into the country issuing the claim. The date of the customs validation must be after the date of importation on the claim and before the expiry date of the Carnet;
  2. An Importation or Re-exportation Counterfoil validated by a foreign customs inspector which documents the same goods that were imported into the country issuing the claim. The date of the customs validation must be after the date of importation on the claim and before the expiry date of the Carnet.

Some foreign customs authorities may impose a “Regularization Fee” for accepting this type of proof.For further assistance, please contact a Foreign Claims Examiner.

Non-Carnet Proof

Non-Carnet proof includes customs-validated documents dated after the date of importation on the claim. USCIB does not guarantee the acceptance of non-Carnet proof by foreign customs.Please ensure that the Carnet number and other Carnet-specific information are indicated on any of the following documents: e.g., description of merchandise as listed on the General List, the value and the total weight of the goods.

Certificate of Disposition Validated by U.S. Customs Service (Form CF3227)

A Certificate of Disposition is used to provide evidence to foreign customs that the goods in question have been re-imported into the U.S. The Holder should present the merchandise to the U.S. Customs office, upon or after re-importation, for inspection and obtain proper certification using the Certificate of Disposition form. Contact the Entry Branch of the U.S. Customs office for details and to schedule an appointment. Click here to download the form, instructions, and a sample.

Foreign Customs Cashier’s Receipt

In the case of a sale of merchandise (either in part or in whole), the USCIB recommends that Holders secure a foreign customs cashier’s receipt before departure from the importing country. This receipt will be used to prove payment of applicable duties and taxes upon receipt of a claim. The cashier’s receipt should indicate the Carnet number and items numbers on the General List for which payment is being made. At the time the receipt is obtained, Holders should also request the customs authorities to make the appropriate notations on the re-exportation voucher. Upon return to the U.S., Holders should send a copy of the receipt to USCIB, Foreign Claims Division, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036.

Customs Entry Forms Used at the Time of Re-importation into the US,

  1. Entry/Immediate Delivery (Form CF3461)
  2. Carrier Certificate
  3. Entry Summary (Form CF 7511)

Carnet Cancellation FAQs

Published on February 13, 2014
  1. When do I return the Carnet?

    The Carnet should be returned after its final use or immediately after its expiration, whichever comes first.

  2. To where do I return the Carnet?

    The Carnet holder should make and keep a clear copy of the whole Carnet booklet (all used and even un-used sheets), and return the original via receipted mail to the company that issued you the Carnet.

  3. What should I do if the Carnet is misplaced, lost, or destroyed?

    Please contact your issuing company for assistance.

  4. What should I do if the merchandise is sold in the country of importation?

    If goods are sold overseas, proof of payment (a cashier’s receipt) from the Customs of the country of importation should be attached to the returned Carnet.  Please note that the Carnet number must be indicated on the cashier’s receipt.

  5. Is it possible for the goods under the Carnet to remain in the country after the Carnet has expired?

    It may be. You may apply for a replacement Carnet, which normally allows the goods to stay in the country of import for another year.  Approval and acceptance of replacement Carnets vary from country to country.  To apply, please contact the office where you obtained your original Carnet at least 30 days prior to Carnet expiration.

  6. I received a duplicate Carnet after I lost the original. The duplicate was sent back to you. Why am I still getting reminder letters?

    In order to cancel a Carnet, both the duplicate and the original must be returned. Reminder letters will be generated if only the duplicate was returned. If you do not have the original then the Carnet must remain open for one year after the expiration date. If no claim(s) is issued during that time period then the Carnet will be cancelled.

  7. My Carnet was never used. Do I still have to return it?

    Yes, all Carnets must be returned even if they were never used.  Carnets that are not returned will be considered ‘open’ and thus, the associated security deposit will remain in effect until the time during which a customs claim may be submitted to USCIB has ended.