Continuous import bond sizing standard: 10% of expected annual duty paid. Higher sizing required for: prior compliance issues, AD/CVD goods, large refund balances, accelerated drawback program. Surety underwriting reviews compliance posture, financial condition, and recent audit results.
This guide covers Continuous Bond Sizing. Specialty customs topics range from valuation methodology to specific cargo types and regulatory overlays.
Practical implementation depends on company size, sector, and operational structure.
Standard 10% rule
10% of expected annual duty paid. Sufficient for most importers without special circumstances.
Higher bond situations
AD/CVD goods (multiplied risk), prior compliance issues (CBP requires higher), accelerated drawback program (separate higher bond).
Renewal underwriting
Surety reviews compliance posture annually. Penalty assessments or audit findings can increase required bond.
Bond cost
Surety premium typically 1-3% of bond amount per year.
Frequently asked questions
When does this apply?
Most relevant for SMB importers in the named sector or facing the named situation.
What documentation matters?
Standard CBP forms, supplier certificates, BOM analysis, and topic-specific records.
What is the timeline?
Initial assessment 2-4 weeks; full implementation 8-16 weeks depending on scope.
What does this cost?
Project work $5,000-$25,000 depending on complexity. Ongoing retainer for active operations.
How do I begin?
Book a 15-minute scoping call. We confirm fit before any engagement.
Get started
Engage on a specific specialty topic. Project pricing varies by scope.