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F.A.Q. - frequently asked questions

TRIO’s FAQ page is a practical, plain language resource designed to help importers and logistics teams understand what to expect when working with a customs broker. It covers the essentials from onboarding documents and entry filing to ISF, FTZ support, classification, tariff exposure, recordkeeping, and common causes of holds or exams. The goal is to reduce surprises, improve shipment readiness, and set clear expectations around timelines, responsibilities, and how TRIO builds repeatable compliance processes for smooth and defensible U.S. import operations.

What does TRIO Customs Brokers do?

​TRIO files U.S. Customs entries and related filings, helps classify products, supports duty and tariff planning, and builds repeatable compliance processes so your imports move reliably and audit ready.

Who is the importer of record?

The importer of record is the party responsible to CBP for the accuracy of the entry and for duties, taxes, and fees. TRIO can file on your behalf, but the importer remains responsible for the truthfulness and completeness of the information provided.

What do you need from me to start?

Most shipments start smoothly with:

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  1. Power of attorney

  2. Commercial invoice

  3. Packing list

  4. Bill of lading or air waybill

  5. Arrival notice, if available

  6. Product details for classification and admissibility checks

Do you handle ISF for ocean shipments?

Yes. TRIO prepares and transmits ISF, aligns ISF data to the entry, and helps you set up a process so the ISF is consistently filed on time with clean part and supplier data.

Do you support Foreign Trade Zones?

Yes. TRIO supports FTZ operations such as admissions, zone to zone transfers, exports, and entries for consumption, and helps design a practical workflow for recordkeeping and audit readiness.

Can you help with tariff exposure like Section 301, Section 232, and IEEPA related duties?

Yes. TRIO helps map your HTS classification to applicable Chapter 99 measures, confirms when stacking applies, and documents the basis for the duty strategy so your position is defensible. For internal planning references, see the tariff decision flow charts and the HTS reference database.

Can TRIO classify my products?

Yes. We can provide a practical classification recommendation based on product composition and use, and help you build a classification file with supporting documentation for repeat shipments.

Do you help with PGA requirements like FDA, EPA, DOT, or other agencies?

Yes, when applicable. We will identify likely Partner Government Agency touchpoints early so the shipment does not arrive without required data.

How long does clearance take?

​Many shipments clear the same day as arrival when documents are complete and there are no holds. Delays typically come from missing invoice elements, unclear product descriptions, valuation questions, or exams.

What causes CBP holds or exams?

Common triggers include inconsistent data, vague descriptions, high risk commodities, new importers, new suppliers, unusual routing, and mismatched country of origin indicators. TRIO focuses on front end data quality to reduce these events.

What must be on a commercial invoice?

At minimum, the invoice should clearly show the seller, buyer, consignee, detailed product description, quantity, unit price, total price, currency, country of origin, and the terms of sale. Better invoices also include part numbers, material composition, and the correct incoterm and location.

What product details help classification and duty accuracy?

Helpful details include:

  1. Material composition by percentage

  2. Manufacturing process

  3. Principal use

  4. Part number and drawing description

  5. End customer or end use, when relevant

  6. Country of origin methodology, when not obvious

Can TRIO work with my ERP, WMS, or supplier portal data?

Yes. TRIO can align your item master to HTS, country of origin, and admissibility notes so filing becomes repeatable rather than reworked shipment by shipment.

How long do I need to keep import records?

​CBP recordkeeping rules generally require keeping entry and supporting records for the required retention period, and TRIO can help you set up a clean digital record set for audits.

What is a strong compliance posture for a growing importer?

A strong posture usually includes:

  1. A maintained HTS and country of origin master

  2. A valuation policy and a related party review process when needed

  3. Written procedures for invoices, packing lists, and product changes

  4. A broker communication workflow with clear escalation rules

  5. Periodic self audits and post entry reviews

How does TRIO price brokerage work?

Pricing is typically per transaction, with optional monthly support packages for classification maintenance, tariff planning, and process controls. TRIO aims to price transparently, aligned to shipment volume, data cleanliness, and complexity.

Can TRIO support one off shipments?

Yes. One time imports are supported, but repeat shipments benefit most from building an item master and process so each entry is faster and lower risk.

What if we discover an error after filing?

If something changes or an error is found, TRIO will advise the correction path, document the facts, and help file the appropriate update or correction approach based on timing and impact.

Can TRIO help with protests, prior disclosures, or penalty responses?

Yes, with the right support team. Some matters may require trade counsel depending on complexity and risk, and TRIO will coordinate the documentation and broker side actions.

What industries do you know best?

TRIO is especially strong in industrial and automotive related supply chains, including complex multi country sourcing, tariff exposure analysis, and process control for repeat parts imports.

How do we contact TRIO?

Use the Contact page for a consultation request. If you want faster onboarding, include:

  1. Your company name and EIN

  2. Your shipment lane and mode

  3. Your top product families

  4. Estimated monthly entry volume

  5. Whether you use an FTZ

Useful references for clients

  • Tariff decision flow charts, internal planning reference.

  • HTS reference database for program parts and duty components, internal planning reference.

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