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Customs Bonds - Calculators
Single Transaction Bonds (STB) | Continuous Bonds | Bond Sufficiency Checker
#1
Continuous Bond
A continuous bond is a dynamic annual insurance policy required by CBP. It guarantees payment of duties and taxes, ensuring your shipments clear customs efficiently without needing a separate bond for every single import transaction throughout the year.
#2
Single Transaction Bond (STB)
A Single Transaction Bond (STB) covers a one-time import shipment. You need it if you import infrequently, as it ensures CBP receives duties and taxes for that specific entry without the higher cost of an annual continuous bond.
#3
Bond Sufficiency Checker
Bonds ensure the government recovers duties if an importer defaults. If insufficient, CBP issues a "Notice of Insufficiency," giving you 30 days to increase coverage. Failure to comply leads to shipment holds and the loss of immediate delivery privileges.
#1 - Continuous Bond
#2 - Single Transaction Bond (STB)
Bond Sufficiency Checker
FAQ
Below are the key questions regarding Continuous Bonds (CB) and Single Transaction Bonds (STB) as defined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.
General Bond Requirements
Customs Bonds: Frequently Asked Questions Below are the key questions regarding Continuous Bonds (CB) and Single Transaction Bonds (STB) as defined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. General Bond Requirements
Q: When is a customs bond legally required?
A: A bond is mandatory for all commercial importations valued over $2,500. Even if the value is lower, a bond is required if the goods are subject to other federal agency requirements (like FDA for food or ATF for firearms).
Q: Who is responsible for obtaining the bond?
A: The Importer of Record (IOR). This can be an individual or a business entity. While your customs broker usually facilitates the purchase, the legal liability for the bond rests with you.
Continuous Bonds (CB)
Q: What is the main benefit of a Continuous Bond?
A: It covers all entries at all U.S. ports for one year. It is much more cost-effective if you import more than 3–4 times a year and simplifies the process since you don't have to buy a new bond for every shipment.
Q: Does a Continuous Bond cover Importer Security Filings (ISF)?
A: Yes. A standard Activity Code 1 Continuous Bond automatically covers the ISF requirements for ocean freight, saving you from paying separate ISF bond fees for each shipment.
Q: How do I know if my Continuous Bond is still "sufficient"?
A: CBP checks your "rolling 12-month" duty total. If 10% of your total duties/taxes/fees exceeds your current bond amount, the bond is "insufficient." You have 30 days to replace it after receiving a CBP notice.
Single Transaction Bonds (STB)
Q: How is the amount of an STB calculated?
A: Unlike the 10% rule for continuous bonds, an STB must usually equal the total entered value of the goods plus all duties, taxes, and fees. If the goods are subject to other agency requirements (e.g., FDA), the bond amount is typically three times the value of the goods.
Q: Can I use an STB for multiple shipments?
A: No. An STB is strictly for one single entry at one specific port. Once that entry is liquidated, the bond is exhausted.
Q: Do I need a separate bond for ISF when using an STB?
A: Yes. If you are importing via ocean and using an STB, you must generally purchase two separate bonds: one for the ISF filing and one for the Customs Entry.