What is a customs single entry bond?

A customs single entry bond is a CBP-required surety bond that guarantees payment of duties, taxes, and fees for one specific import transaction. It is used when a continuous bond is not in place or for occasional imports.

How much does a single entry customs bond cost?

Single entry customs bonds have a minimum cost of $100 per transaction. For higher-value shipments, the bond amount is typically 3 times the duties, taxes, and fees, with premiums ranging from $100-$500+ depending on the bond amount.

How is the bond amount calculated for single entries?

The bond amount is typically calculated as 3 times the estimated duties, taxes, and fees for the shipment, with a minimum of $100. CBP may require higher amounts for certain commodities or high-value goods.

How quickly can I get a single entry bond?

Single entry bonds can often be issued the same day for urgent shipments. Standard processing is typically completed within 24 hours for straightforward transactions with complete documentation.

When should I use a single entry bond vs continuous bond?

Use single entry bonds for occasional imports (1-3 shipments per year). If you import regularly (4+ shipments annually), a continuous bond is typically more cost-effective and convenient.

Can I use a single entry bond for any type of merchandise?

Single entry bonds can be used for most types of merchandise, including personal effects, commercial goods, and temporary imports. Some restricted items may require special documentation or higher bond amounts.

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Customs Single Entry Bond #973

Get CBP single entry bonds for one-time import transactions. Perfect for occasional importers with minimum $100 bonds.

Perfect for Occasional Imports

• Minimum $100 per transaction

• Same-day approval available

• One-time use per shipment

• No annual commitment required

• Valid for any merchandise type

• Ideal for infrequent importers

Get Single Entry Bond - $100 Min Calculate Bond Amount

CBP approved • One-time transactions • Occasional importer friendly

CBP Single Entry Bond Requirements

U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires single entry bonds for individual import transactions when a continuous bond is not in place. These bonds provide security for duties, taxes, and fees for one specific shipment.

Single entry bonds are ideal for occasional importers, one-time purchases, or businesses that import infrequently and don't require continuous bond coverage.

Single Entry Bond Calculation Examples

Understanding how bond amounts are determined for different scenarios

Low-Value Merchandise

$100

Estimated Duties/Taxes: $50

Required Bond Amount: $100 (minimum)

Standard Import

$150-300

Estimated Duties/Taxes: $500

Required Bond Amount: $1,500 (3x duties)

High-Value Goods

$300-600

Estimated Duties/Taxes: $2,000

Required Bond Amount: $6,000 (3x duties)

Bond Calculation Formula

Bond Amount = 3 × (Estimated Duties + Taxes + Fees) with $100 minimum. Premium is typically $100 minimum or 10-15% of bond amount for higher values.

Who Should Use Single Entry Customs Bonds?

Ideal scenarios for single entry bond usage

Occasional importers with infrequent shipments

Businesses making one-time import purchases

Individuals importing personal effects or vehicles

Companies bringing temporary imports for trade shows

Importers of commercial samples and prototypes

Businesses without continuous bond arrangements

Common Transaction Types

• One-time commercial imports

• Personal vehicle importations

• Household goods and personal effects

• Temporary imports for trade shows

• Commercial samples and prototypes

• Repair and return merchandise

CBP Bond Requirements by Transaction Type

Bond amounts and requirements for different import scenarios

Standard Merchandise

3x duties + taxes + fees

Timeline: Per shipment

Notes: Minimum $100 bond

High-Value Goods

Based on cargo value

Timeline: Individual transaction

Notes: Luxury items, electronics

Temporary Imports

TIB calculation

Timeline: Specific period

Notes: Trade shows, repairs

Personal Effects

$100-$500 typical

Timeline: One-time entry

Notes: Household goods, vehicles

Commercial Samples

Minimum $100

Timeline: Sample entry

Notes: Product demonstrations

Special Categories

CBP determination

Timeline: Case-by-case

Notes: Restricted merchandise

Important: Bond amounts may be adjusted by CBP based on commodity type, origin country, or importer history. Consult with CBP or a customs broker for complex shipments.

Risks of Not Having Single Entry Bonds

Consequences of attempting to import without proper bonding

CBP rejection of import entry without proper bonding

Cargo detention at port causing demurrage charges

Inability to clear time-sensitive shipments

Additional costs for expedited bond processing

Missed business opportunities due to delays

Potential return of merchandise to origin

Time-Sensitive Impact: Without proper single entry bonds, your shipment will be held at the port, potentially causing expensive demurrage charges and missed delivery deadlines.

Why Choose Our Single Entry Customs Bonds?

📦 One-Time Use: Perfect for occasional import transactions

⚡ Same-Day Approval: Fast processing for urgent shipments

💰 Minimum $100: Cost-effective for small transactions

🛡️ Full CBP Compliance: Meets all customs requirements

📋 Simple Process: Quick application for immediate needs

🚢 Any Port: Valid at specific port of entry

📞 Expert Support: Guidance through single entry process

Frequently Asked Questions