Freight glossaryCustomsInternational Shipping
Customs Bond
Definition
A customs bond is a financial guarantee filed with CBP that the importer will pay duties, taxes and charges and meet its customs obligations; imported goods are generally not released without one.
What it means
Under 19 CFR 142.4, merchandise is not released unless a single entry or continuous bond on CBP Form 301, containing the conditions set out in 19 CFR 113.62, is on file.[1] CBP's importer guide puts it simply: "The entry must be accompanied by evidence that a bond has been posted with CBP to cover any potential duties, taxes, and charges that may accrue."[2]
A single entry bond covers one entry; a continuous bond covers entries over a period. The bond is also where some penalties land: CBP assesses liquidated damages for ISF defaults as claims under the bond.[3] A customs bond is not the same thing as a bonded warehouse, which is a building approved to hold goods before duty is paid.
Example
A company that imports a few containers a month buys a continuous bond so every entry during the year is covered, instead of buying a single entry bond for each container.
Related
Related terms
- Importer of RecordThe importer of record (IOR) is the party responsible for an import entry: making sure it is correct and that...Glossary
- Customs BrokerA customs broker is a person or company licensed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to conduct customs...Glossary
- Importer Security FilingThe Importer Security Filing (ISF, often called 10+2) is advance shipment data that must be filed...Glossary
- Bonded WarehouseA bonded warehouse is a CBP-approved facility where imported goods are stored under customs control before...Glossary
Related questions
- What Documents Are Needed to Import a Container into the U.S.?For a typical ocean import: an Importer Security Filing made before the container is loaded abroad, the bill...Answer
- Do I Need a Customs Broker to Import Goods?Not legally. U.S. law requires a customs broker's license only for conducting customs business on behalf of...Answer
Sources
- Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School, “19 CFR § 142.4, Bond requirements,” Federal regulation. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection, “Importing into the United States: A Guide for Commercial Importers,” Government guidance. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection, “Importer Security Filing "10+2" Program Frequently Asked Questions,” Government guidance. Published July 9, 2010. Accessed September 30, 2026.
General operational information, not legal, customs or regulatory advice. Rules and rates change; confirm current requirements with the agency, carrier or contract that governs your shipment.