Customs and Import Compliance

At Neville Peterson, we specialize in guiding clients through the complexities of customs law. We work closely with a diverse range of clients, from large corporations to small businesses, providing comprehensive advice on tariff classifications, valuation, duty assessments, and more. We pride ourselves on our depth of experience and commitment to creative problem solving in the evolving regulatory landscape of customs law. This enables us to offer tailored solutions for customs compliance and dispute resolution that align with our clients’ individual needs and business objectives.

With a focus on both regulatory compliance and strategic planning, we aim to help our clients not just navigate, but thrive within the complex customs legal environment. From years of experience, we understand the practical and legal intricacies involved in customs laws and compliance, and always aim to minimize risks while maximizing operational efficiency.

While the specific areas outlined below serve as an illustration of the types of customs issues Neville Peterson routinely handles, Customs law is a dynamic field with new issues and challenges arising regularly. Our team continually monitors changes and developments in legislation, case law, and administrative practices. This proactive approach positions us to provide timely analysis and counsel on emergent issues, ensuring that our clients are always a step ahead in their customs compliance and strategic planning.

Tariff Classification, Duty Assessments and Refunds

Neville Peterson provides a wide range of services in tariff classification, duty assessments, and refunds. We aim to simplify these complicated processes, ensuring compliance and efficiency for both seasoned importers and those new to international trade.

  • Tariff Classification: We help ensure that your products are accurately classified according to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule to avoid costly errors.
  • Valuation and First Sale: We carefully analyze transaction components to establish the most favorable dutiable value, often employing the first sale rule.
  • Section 301 and Section 232 Duties: Our counsel extends to helping businesses understand and comply with additional duties under Section 301 and Section 232.
  • USMCA and Preferential Trade Agreements: We assess client eligibility for preferential duty rates under trade agreements like the USMCA, and provide strategic advice for duty savings.
  • Duty Drawback: We assist clients with the requirements for reclaiming duties and taxes, ensuring proper documentation and adherence to timelines.

Compliance, Enforcement, and Dispute Resolution

Compliance in the realm of U.S. Customs law can be challenging. Neville Peterson offers experienced guidance rooted in a deep understanding of administrative procedures, enforcement mechanisms, and options for dispute resolution.

  • Audit Planning and Defense: We prepare businesses for CBP audits and offer defensive strategies that aim to minimize financial and operational impact.
  • CF 28 Requests for Information and CF 29 Notices: We help clients respond effectively to CBP’s requests for information (CF 28) and notices of action (CF 29), aiming to minimize operational disruptions.
  • Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures: We represent clients who are facing civil or criminal penalties, with the goal of negating or substantially reducing financial forfeitures.
  • Qui Tam/False Claims Act: We guide clients through the intricacies of Qui Tam cases under the False Claims Act.
  • Forced Labor and UFPLA: We assist in compliance with labor regulations and represent clients in disputes under the Uniform Foreign-Country Judgments Recognition Act.
  • Country of Origin: We routinely advise our clients on compliance with country of origin, substantial transformation, and marking issues.
  • Cannabis: We advise leading cannabis companies on dynamic import and export compliance issues attendant to a variety of cannabis products and paraphernalia.
  • Partner Government Agency Compliance: We help clients meet the requirements of other government agencies involved in import and export activities, such as the FDA and USDA.
  • Tariff Advantaged Facilities: Our team consults on the use of tariff-advantaged facilities like Foreign Trade Zones and Bonded Warehouses to maximize potential duty savings and streamline logistics.

Practice Areas