Customs Provides New Method to Report Suspected Violation Online

Issue 30, July 16, 2008

In an effort to keep our customers informed we are forwarding a recent announcement made by Customs and Border Protection who has developed a new online reporting system to provide concerned members of the public a means to confidentially report suspected trade violations to CBP. Members of the public may report information regarding suspected violations via a new online form on the CBP Website. http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/trade_programs/e_allegations/.

eAllegations is not intended for assertions of security issues such as terrorists or weapons of mass destruction. Violations that may be reported online through eAllegations include misclassification of merchandise, country of origin markings, health and safety violations, intellectual property rights violations, textile or other trade violations.

CBP has established this reporting system to make it easier for the public to notify CBP of possible trade violations. To report a possible violation, an individual must submit the following information: the type of trade violation, description of what has occurred, the products or goods involved and the alleged violator’s name and/or company. Other information may be included on a voluntary basis. CBP will confidentially research concerns, determine the validity of the allegations and any actions required based on the subsequent review.

For example, eAllegations will provide a means to report a possible violator who is importing substandard steel, claiming that it is of a higher grade, therefore creating a potential safety issue. Other possible violations that can be reported include a company claiming a lower than actual value on a product they are importing to pay less duty or a company who is importing textiles from one country but stating that the goods are from another country to avoid quota restrictions.

Concerned members of the public bring to light many trade violations and it is in the U.S. Government’s best interest to make it as easy as possible for the public to report possible violations. All information submitted to CBP is voluntary and confidential. The above link also includes a FAQ and more information regarding the program.

For more information contact Karl Krueger, DHL Regulatory Compliance at karl.krueger@dhl.com.