On May 13, 2015, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the implementation of the Broker-Known Importer Program (BKIP). Similar to the Importer Self-Assessment Program (ISA) and Trusted Trader Program, the BKIP aims to streamline and enhance federal efforts to address import safety and compliance issues. Establishing a process whereby licensed US Customs brokers can identify importers who are exercising reasonable care in connection with their import related activities, the program will strengthen business partnerships between brokers and importers and enhance security through risk assessment evaluation of information prior to goods’ arrival.

The BKIP endeavors to increase consistency in Customs entry processes; strengthening compliance knowledge and related practices, and streamlining the establishment of secure supply chains for importers. As envisioned, participating brokers would review compliance obligations and transmit a Known Importer indicator when filing an entry on behalf of a Known Importer client. CBP could also offer importer benefits ranging from enhanced impact risk profiles to improved cargo targeting by CBP at the time of arrival.  

For additional information about the Broker-Known Importer Program, or questions on how to sign up, please send an email to Deringer’s Compliance Department.