What are US Customs Exams?
When goods are imported into the United States, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may inspect a shipment to ensure compliance with federal regulations. While most shipments are released without issue, some are randomly selected for examination, which can result in delays and added costs. These expenses are always the responsibility of the importer.
Types of U.S. Customs Exams & Associated Costs
1. Manifest Hold / Document Review
What it is: A review of shipping documents (no physical inspection).
Reason: Routine screening or document discrepancies.
Typical Delay: 1–2 business days
Cost: $0
2. VACIS / NII Exam (X-ray / Non-Intrusive Inspection)
What it is: The container is X-rayed either at the terminal or an off-site exam location.
Reason: Random selection or identified risk indicators.
Typical Delay: 1–3 business days
Exam Cost: $150–$300
JMC Handling Fee to Client: $25.00 per CNTR
3. Tailgate Exam
What it is: CBP opens the container doors but does not unload the cargo.
Reason: Visual check following a flagged X-ray or risk assessment.
Typical Delay: 2–4 business days
Exam Cost: $200–$400
JMC Handling Fee to Client: $150.00 per CNTR
4. Intensive Exam
What it is: Full unloading and physical inspection of the cargo.
Reason: Suspected violations, unusual routing, or enforcement criteria.
Typical Delay: 7–14 business days
Exam Cost: $1,200–$2,500+
Includes: CFS warehouse handling, labor, storage, reloading, and drayage to/from the Customs-approved Inspection Warehouse by their designated bonded carrier.
Note: Additional charges apply for repacking or extended storage.
JMC Handling Fee to Client: $150.00 per CNTR
5. Agricultural Exam
What it is: CBP or USDA examines cargo for pests, soil, or restricted organic material.
Reason: Mandatory for shipments involving food, wood packaging, plants, seeds, etc.
Typical Delay: 2–7 business days
Exam Cost: $100–$600+ (may be higher if treatment like fumigation is required)
JMC Handling Fee to Client: $150.00 per CNTR
Note: Important:
A single shipment may undergo multiple types of customs exams. For example, a container could be subject to both a VACIS exam and a Tailgate or Intensive exam. In such cases, each exam incurs its own fee, which is billed separately.
Who Pays for Customs Exams?
All exam-related costs are the responsibility of the importer, even if the shipment is selected randomly or clears without any issue. Charges are typically invoiced through your customs broker or freight forwarder after the exam is complete.
Tips to Minimize Exam Risk and Costs
• Ensure accurate and complete documentation.
• Maintain consistent and correct product classifications.
• Submit timely Importer Security Filing (ISF).
• Work with reputable suppliers and freight forwarders.
• Verify compliance with CBP and USDA packaging regulations.