An export declaration is a mandatory shipping form for all shipments leaving the US, providing a record of exported goods and controlling exports. It requires accurate information and is mandatory for certain countries and shipments over $2,500 USD. Penalties for incorrect information can be severe.
In the United States, an export declaration is a shipping form that is intended to provide a census record of exported goods and to control countries’ exports. It is required for all shipments, regardless of shipping method. It is mandatory if the value of the shipment exceeds $2,500 US Dollars (USD), requires an export license, or is traveling to an embargoed or restricted country. It is important to provide accurate information on this form, as penalties can be severe.
Also known as a Freight Forwarder’s Export Declaration Form (SED), the export declaration form requires the shipper to include the value, weight, quantity, description, destination, Schedule B Commodity Code, as well as other regulatory information. The export declaration form is 7525-V and 7513 for goods in transit. This form must be completed by the individual or company sending the shipment or by the shipper if the shipper has power of attorney.
Completion of this form requires Annex B classification codes, license number, and export control classification number. Schedule B classification codes are available on the census website or by calling the Census Bureau. A license number and an export control classification number are required only if an export license is required for the goods being exported in shipment. Your local Bureau of Industry and Security or Export Assistance Center can help determine if you need an export license.
There are exemptions available for shipments consisting of personal items, such as when moving overseas or travelling. These exemptions apply only to items in the shipment that will not be sold, will not be transferred to an embargoed country, will not require an export license, and will not travel with a bill of lading. These items should also be valued at less than $2,500 USD. If the shipment has a value of $2,500 USD or more, but is a mixture of goods with different Class B commodity codes, an export declaration is not required.
Shipments must be accompanied by the export declaration together with the exporting courier. The carrier will present the form to the US Customs Department at the port of export. Responsibility for compliance is not transferred to the forwarder, therefore the forwarder must fill out the form correctly and provide accurate information. It is required for specific countries, including Cuba, Libya, and North Korea, as well as Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and the former Pacific Trust Territories.
The consequences for providing incorrect information on an export declaration form are serious. For example, it could result in a fine of up to $10,000 USD and/or jail time. Copies of shipping documents must be kept for five years for possible future investigation. The forwarder has the obligation to have a license if necessary and a form when necessary to avoid any penalties.
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