Certificates of Origin FAQs

USCIB’s Electronic Certificate of Origin

What is a Certificate of Origin?

According to multiple reputable sources, a Certificate of Origin (often abbreviated to CO or COO), is an international trade document attesting to the origin of specified goods. It is often required by the customs authorities of a country as part of the entry process. The document is completed by the exporter or its agent and certified by an organization in the country of the exporter, such as a chamber of commerce, trade organization, and/or consular office.

The “origin” does not refer to the country where the goods were shipped from but to the country where they were produced. For products manufactured in two or more countries, origin is obtained in the country where the last substantial economically justified processing is carried out. An often used practice is that if more than 50% of the cost of producing the goods originates from one country, the "national content" is more than 50%, then, that country is acceptable as the country of origin.

Determining the origin of a product is important because it is key to applying import tariffs. Not all goods leaving the U.S need a certificate of origin.

How to obtain a CO?

USCIB provides easy online application and full electronic processing of Certificate of Origin. Our eCOs are delivered to you in hours and are compliant with international standards. USCIB’s eCOs are powered by eCertify, the next generation of product technology, and a worldwide leader in electronic COs. To obtain an eCO please Click Here.

Who determines whether a CO is required?

Either the customs authority of the importing country or a financial institution. The exporter and/or their freight forwarder or customs house broker will know if a CO is required when importing into a foreign country. Ask your banker if a CO is required to comply with a letter of credit.

Who is authorized to sign a CO on behalf of the exporter?

Only the exporter and/or their duly authorized signatories.

Can a freight forwarder or customs house broker apply for a CO?

Yes, a freight forwarder or customs house broker can submit the application and documentation on behalf of its client, as long as USCIB has proof of the relationship. This link is created in our online system when the exporter registers and selects their freight forwarder to submit on their behalf. The CO and supporting documents will bear the signature of the exporter.

Can one Certificate of Origin cover multiple products each with different origin?

Yes, a CO may have multiple items each with a different country of origin.

What are the benefits of an electronic CO vs. paper?

You never have to leave your desk! Submit electronically, receive electronically and print at your location. USCIB’s application, powered by eCertify, provides exporters, freight forwarders, customs house brokers and trade service providers with an easy to use and seamless system for the submission and receipt of electronic COs, providing them with real value in cost savings and efficiency gains:

Ø Eliminate messenger fees

Ø Reduce handling costs

Ø Provide fast turnaround

Ø Reduce errors

Ø Receive prompt notification of acceptance and approval of your applications

Ø Comply with the Certificate of Origin Guidelines of the International Chamber of Commerce

How does USCIB know the information being submitted as proof of origin is correct?

USCIB will certify Certificates of Origin and certain accompanying documents by acknowledging the authenticity of signatures and the documents themselves. USCIB reserves the right to request additional proof of origin to satisfy the standard requirements for the issuance of COs. Certificates of Origin are official import documents. As such the exporter is subject to applicable national and international laws governing false declarations.

What are the Terms and Conditions I agreed to at time of registration?

USCIB’s Terms and Conditions is a formal undertaking by the exporter who takes responsibility for the information provided and holds USCIB harmless in the event that the exporter’s declaration is incorrect. For a copy of the Terms and Conditions agreed to at time of registration, please Click Here.

What is a NAFTA Certificate of Origin?

This type of Certificate of Origin is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection form. It results from the North American Free Trade Agreement and is only used between Canada, Mexico and the United States. An exporter can file this directly with USCBP. For more details on the NAFTA CO, please Click Here.

5/9/2013