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Customs & Tariffs Services

Whether you’re importing, exporting, or both, Aprio can help your business overcome even the most complex global trade challenges.

Tariff classifications.
Shifting CBP regulations.
Supply chain disruptions.

Account for Anything™ with Aprio

Today’s consistently evolving global environment makes it difficult for businesses that import or export tangible products to comply with with ever-changing customs and tariff rules.

Looking at the U.S. alone, the list of domestic and international trade regulations is lengthy, dynamic, and full of potential stumbling blocks that can add up to significant costs and potential penalties on your balance sheet.

If your company imports or exports goods to and from the U.S., Aprio can help you navigate shipping complexities and customs compliance with confidence. With more than 12 years of experience helping cross-industry clients tackle everything from international trade rules to Customs Border Protection (CBP) disputes, our specialists can help you stay ahead of changing regulations, reduce compliance risks, and keep costs down.

Our Focus Areas

Our scalable, multi-pronged approach to customs and tariffs examines your situation from every angle and provides a comprehensive list of proactive solutions, including:

  • Tariff Classification & Reengineering Strategies

    Aprio will help you properly classify your products and determine the appropriate duty and tariff rates, including exemptions.

  • Country of Origin Analysis

    Depending on the country of origin where your product is sourced, our team will help you navigate additional duty charges or determine whether or not your product can enter duty-free or at a reduced rate.

  • Customs Valuation Review

    Aprio will help keep you compliant with customs rules, making sure you are properly appraising your products and factoring in the potential of transfer pricing when importing from related parties.

  • Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Eligibility Evaluation

    The U.S. has FTAs with countries across the globe–but are you taking advantage of the benefits? We’ll show you how to reduce your duties and tariffs by gauging if your goods qualify for preferential treatment under any FTAs.

  • Duty Refund Claims (Protests) Filing

    If you’ve overpaid on duties or if you qualify for duty drawbacks, we’ll help your business recover valuable funds by pursuing a customs duty refund.

  • Customs Rulings Strategy

    Need a customs ruling from CBP? Our team will prepare and file a ruling request and help you understand the implications of the ruling, as well as mitigate any risks to your business.

  • Import Data/ACE Analytics

    We have the technical knowledge to help you navigate the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), which is used to monitor imports and exports and obtain import/export data.

  • Duty Drawbacks Recovery

    Secure duty drawbacks—refunds on duties, taxes and fees—with help from Aprio. If you imported goods that were later exported or destroyed, our team has the experience to help your business recoup valuable funds.

  • Customs Seizure/Detention Strategy

    If CBP has seized or detained your imported merchandise, Aprio will help you understand your obligations, manage compliance, and streamline your communications with Customs to support mitigation and the release of your goods.

  • Export Controls & Sanctions Guidance

    When the government imposes sanctions on the movement of goods and transactions, maintaining compliance is key. Our team will guide you through the complex regulations and mitigate any risks to your business.

  • Customs Audit Management

    Verify the accuracy of your import declarations and uncover noncompliance with a customs audit from Aprio.

  • Additional Trade Compliance Guidance

    Get assistance with a wide range of other customs and tariffs matters, including first sale for export, forced labor compliance, prior disclosures, superfund excise taxes, CTPAT and trade compliance programs, and more.

Aprio partners with AT LAST, a global collective of independent, like-minded firms serving clients across the globe

Your Customs & Tariffs Specialists

Leveraging a decade of experience in and speaking over 60 language

Customs & Tariffs Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Are customs and tariffs the same thing?

Customs and tariffs are not the same, but they are connected.

Customs refers to the overall process of regulating international trade, or the import and export of goods across national borders. The customs process includes procedures like inspections, documentation, and the collection of trade-related taxes and duties.

Tariffs are one type of these taxes or duties that are imposed when a good is imported across international borders.

What is the point of tariffs?

Tariffs, or taxes on imported goods, can serve many purposes, including:

  • Revenue Generation: When used correctly, tariffs can be a source of income for importing governments.
  • Domestic Industry Protection: When a country increases the price of an imported good with a tariff, it can actually make domestic products more competitive in the marketplace. If an imported good is more expensive, consumers might be more likely to support domestic businesses in order to save money.
  • Negotiation: Tariffs can also be used as bargaining chips in international trade negotiations. A country might impose a tariff on imports in order to pressure the exporting country to reduce its own tariffs or mitigate subsidies.
What are some other customs and tariffs matters that Aprio can help with?

In addition to the focus areas listed above, Aprio also has a wealth of experience helping clients navigate:

  • First Sale for Export
  • Customs Compliance Audit
  • Forced Labor Compliance
  • Prior Disclosure/Penalty Cases
  • Global Import Landed Cost Review
  • Import/Export Compliance Manual
  • Customs Valuation Optimization Review
  • Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT)
  • Superfund Excise Tax
How often do U.S. customs and trade regulations change?

U.S. and international trade rules are constantly evolving. Staying updated is essential to avoid fines, prevent shipment delays, and manage costs effectively.

Can trade agreements impact the tariffs my business pays?

Yes. Changes in trade agreements can alter duty rates and import/export requirements, so businesses must monitor these changes to legally apply the most favorable terms.

If you’re overwhelmed by the complexities of international shipping, Aprio can help you navigate customs and tariffs with confidence.

How do tariffs affect electronics imports?

For electronics, proper valuation and classification are critical. Errors can trigger customs disputes, penalties, and shipment delays that impact production and delivery schedules.

How do trade quotas impact steel and aluminum imports?

Quotas can restrict import volumes and fluctuate frequently. Staying informed on quota changes helps companies plan sourcing, avoid penalties, and maintain consistent supply.

Overcome even the most complex global trade challenges.

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