US proposes new entry and bonding rules for low-value shipments

Electronic entries before importation

The proposal would amend 19 CFR parts 113, 128, 141, 143 and 145. Proposed Entry Type 11 would have to be filed electronically in the Automated Commercial Environment on or before importation, replacing the current rule in 19 CFR 143.21 that generally permits filing within 15 calendar days after landing. The filing would identify the final deliver-to party where that party differs from the ultimate consignee.^[1][2]

Owners and purchasers could continue to make their own entries or use a licensed customs broker. A consignee acting as importer of record, but not as owner or purchaser, would have to use a licensed broker. CBP says the distinction is intended to place low-value shipments under the same representation rules that apply to other imports.^[1]

Mail, bonds and enforcement

A new Entry Type 13 would cover qualifying international mail. It would generally mirror Entry Type 11 data, while also requiring the foreign sender and a tracking number matching the manifest. Mail not entered within 15 days after arrival could be treated as voluntarily abandoned. The proposal would also require continuous or single-transaction bonds for Entry Types 11 and 13.^[1]

CBP would raise the informal-entry ceiling for affected Chapter 99 goods from $250 to the general $2,500 threshold. At the same time, new liquidated-damages provisions would set a minimum equal to $1,000 or the merchandise value, whichever is greater; the minimum would rise to three times value for prohibited, restricted or alcoholic merchandise.^[1][3][4]

Practical effect

The rule is not yet effective. Comments are due by 7 December 2026. E-commerce sellers, importers, postal operators, express carriers and customs brokers should assess whether their data, broker-authorisation and bonding arrangements could support pre-arrival filing and the expanded enforcement exposure if CBP adopts the proposal.^[1]