CBP importer crackdown puts thousands of cross-border freight shipments at risk

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has initiated an enforcement crackdown on importer-of-record numbers containing inaccurate or incomplete information. This action may prevent affected companies from clearing goods destined for the United States, potentially leading to cargo being stranded at ports of entry. The new enforcement regime began on Friday and applies to both existing and new importers.

Once an importer-of-record (IOR) number is voided by CBP, it cannot be used for any purpose, including facilitating entry into the United States. This development could transform a paperwork issue into a significant supply-chain disruption involving importers, customs brokers, freight forwarders, trucking companies, and warehouses.