Tariffs & Duties
Duties can be deferred until goods enter U.S. commerce; some scenarios enable duty reduction or elimination.
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Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) — USA
What is an FTZ and Why It Matters
An FTZ is a secured area under U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) supervision that is considered outside of U.S. customs territory. Companies use FTZs to improve cost structure, streamline customs interactions, and manage risk.
What Is a Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ)?
FTZs are designated sites in the United States where companies can store, process, or manufacture goods under CBP supervision before they formally enter U.S. commerce.
Compliance Framework
Operations follow CBP standards with documented controls, inventory tracking, and audit-ready records.
Operational Flow
Inbound admission, on-site processing, and outbound entry or export—without unnecessary delays.
CBP Supervision
Inventory Visibility
Customs Efficiency
5 Key Benefits of FTZs
Cost management, customs efficiency, and better control—within a compliant model.
Duty Deferral
Store goods in an FTZ and pay duties only when they enter U.S. commerce.
Security & Compliance
Controls, processes, and records aligned with CBP standards for high-value goods.
Streamlined Logistics
Consolidate shipments, optimize inventory, and reduce customs processing time.
Strategic Duty Management
Manage tariff exposure in transit and use weekly entry to optimize MPF obligations.
Quota Management
Stage inventory in the FTZ and release it gradually to meet import quotas.
How an FTZ Works
Typical stages observed in FTZ operations under CBP oversight.
1) Admission
Goods arrive and are admitted to the zone (e.g., e214). Inventory status is recorded at the item level.
2) Zone Operations
Storage, kitting, light manufacturing, or other processes may occur while maintaining traceable controls.
3) Entry / Export
Goods either enter U.S. commerce (weekly entry possible) or are exported; applicable duties are then assessed.
When an FTZ May Make Sense
- High import volumes or repetitive MPF spend.
- Potential inverted-tariff opportunities.
- Long dwell or safety stock where deferral helps cash flow.
- Multi-country flows where lead times and liquidity are critical.
Want to Discuss FTZ Scenarios?
If you’d like to evaluate whether an FTZ could be a fit, you can reach out here.
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