Sell-side tariff preparation increases sale price and reduces deal risk. Activities: identify and capture refund opportunities (IEEPA, drawback), cure compliance gaps before buyer DD, prepare audit-ready documentation, document USMCA / FTA preferences. 12-week project typical timing.
This guide covers Sell-Side Tariff Preparation. M&A and corporate transaction tariff work supports buyers, sellers, and ongoing portfolio operations.
Practical implementation depends on company size, sector, and operational structure.
Refund opportunity capture
IEEPA refunds, drawback claims, missed USMCA preferences. Captured pre-sale increases enterprise value.
Compliance gap cleanup
PSCs, prior disclosures, voluntary tenders. Cleaning up identified issues before buyer DD.
Audit-ready documentation
Organized entry records, supplier certificates, USMCA Certificates. Buyer DD will request these.
Timing
12 weeks typical pre-sale prep. Earlier engagement (6-12 months pre-sale) produces better outcomes.
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 PE / M&A tariff work. DD Snapshot $8-15k; portfolio review priced separately.