Customs Clearance and Delivery Solutions for US Imports
Exclusive DAP & Customs Clearance Solutions for Freight Forwarding Agents
We provide seamless DAP (Delivered at Place) shipping and customs clearance services exclusively for freight forwarding agents handling shipments to the US. Our end-to-end solutions simplify the process from customs clearance to last-mile delivery, allowing agents to focus on serving their clients efficiently.
What is DAP Shipping & How Does It Work for Agents?
Delivered at Place (DAP) means the seller arranges transportation to the final destination, but the buyer is responsible for import duties and customs clearance. For agents, we ensure a smooth process by:
- Handling customs clearance on behalf of your clients.
- Offering last-mile delivery to the consignee's location.
With our expertise, you can confidently offer reliable and hassle-free shipping services to your customers.
Customs Clearance Process for Agents
Navigating US customs regulations is complex, but our team ensures compliance and efficiency. We provide:
- Complete Documentation Handling: Ensuring all required documents (commercial invoices, bill of lading, packing lists, etc.) are in order.
- Customs Compliance & Brokerage: Managing import duties, tariffs, and US regulatory requirements.
- Quick Issue Resolution: Prompt handling of customs-related challenges to prevent delays.
Our streamlined approach helps agents maintain timely and compliant deliveries for their clients.
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Delivery & Final Mile Logistics
Once shipments clear customs, we provide comprehensive final-mile logistics solutions, including:
- Trucking & Inland Transport: Reliable transportation from ports to warehouses or distribution centers.
- Warehousing & Distribution: Secure storage and inventory management.
- Door-to-Door Delivery: Ensuring cargo reaches the final destination smoothly.
By offering these services, we help agents provide a complete shipping solution to their clients.
Important Trucking Terminology
Trucking Terms Explained
Early Return Day (ERD)
The designated first day you can return a container to a terminal without facing extra fees. Provided in the booking confirmation, this date sets a boundary for early returns, ensuring coordination and helping terminals manage incoming shipments smoothly.
Per Diem
Charges that accrue if a container remains out of the terminal past the carrier's free allowance days (usually three to five). Rates for per diem charges vary based on carrier and location, incentivizing prompt container return.
Drop and Pick
The process of dropping off an empty or loaded container at the shipper’s site, with the trucker returning later (the next day or a scheduled date) to retrieve it. This allows flexibility in loading or unloading without requiring the driver’s presence.
Detention
Extra fees charged when loading or unloading a container exceeds the standard free time offered by truckers (usually two hours). Detention fees can also apply if drivers are delayed at a terminal for container pickup or drop-off, motivating efficient loading operations.
Dry Run
A situation when a container is delivered to the destination but returned empty, without being loaded or utilized. This typically results from scheduling issues or canceled shipments, incurring additional operational costs.
Layover Fee
Charges that apply when a trucker exceeds their regulated working hours and must take a rest period. Layover fees compensate drivers for time lost due to extensive loading delays or long distances between loading points and the terminal.
Reposition
Occurs when an empty container is returned to a terminal different from its pickup location, often due to equipment shortages in certain areas. Repositioning helps balance container availability to meet shifting demands across locations.
Weight Limits
Maximum weight standards for containers, which vary by container type and state regulations. Typical limits are:
20' Standard Dry Van (DV): 38,000 lbs (17,237 kg)
40' Dry Van / High Cube (DV/HC): 42,000 lbs (19,051 kg)
Live-load
A container-loading scenario where the cargo is loaded into the container on the same day the container is delivered to the facility. Notably, the trucker’s job here is just to wait during loading; assistance isn’t typically provided.
Cut-off
The last permissible day to return a container to the terminal for it to be loaded and depart as scheduled. Missing this date could lead to rescheduling and additional costs, so it’s crucial for timely shipping.
Pre-pull
When a container is taken out of the terminal a day before the scheduled pick-up or ERD. This ensures the container is available at the shipper’s facility the following day, aiding in timely, coordinated loading.
Cross-town
A logistical move where a container or trailer is transferred from one railroad to another within a city. Cross-town services are used to connect different rail lines for broader shipping routes.
Scale Tickets
Documents obtained when weighing containers on terminal scales. Some terminals, such as those in Dallas, TX, mandate these tickets for loaded containers to verify compliance with weight restrictions.
Exclusive Benefits for Freight Forwarding Agents
We recognize the unique needs of freight forwarding agents and offer:
- Dedicated account managers for personalized support.
- Competitive pricing and special volume-based discounts.
- Real-time shipment tracking and visibility for your customers.
Our tailored services act as an extension of your business, helping you manage your shipments with ease.
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Looking For Conditions For Frequent Imports?
If you are a Cargo Agent or Freight Forwarder seeking favorable conditions for frequent imports to the US, we are here to assist you. Our comprehensive services are designed to streamline your import process, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Partner with us to enhance your customers' import operations and take advantage of our expertise and dedicated support.
CUSTOM BONDS, ISF FILLING & CUSTOMS BROKERING
Read More About Related Topics
What is a customs bond? Single entry vs Continuous bond
Learn MoreISF Filling: All you need to know
Learn MoreEnhancing customs brokering efficency
Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions about DAP Requests
Freight forwarding agents benefit from seamless end-to-end logistics with our DAP shipping solutions. We provide competitive pricing, efficient customs clearance support, and flexible final-mile delivery options. Agents also gain access to real-time tracking and visibility, ensuring smooth shipment management and reducing the risk of unexpected delays.
We simplify customs clearance by offering pre-arrival documentation reviews to prevent clearance issues, compliance guidance to avoid fines, and dedicated customs support teams to handle unexpected delays. Our expertise in customs regulations helps agents navigate complex procedures and keep shipments moving without disruption.
Yes, we offer volume-based pricing for frequent shippers. Agents handling consistent or high-volume shipments may qualify for discounted rates. Contact our team to discuss custom pricing options tailored to your shipping needs.
We provide an advanced tracking system that delivers real-time updates, milestone notifications, and customizable tracking reports. Agents can monitor shipments from pickup to final delivery, providing clients with accurate ETAs and proactive updates.
If a shipment is delayed at customs, our team identifies the cause, offers solutions such as document corrections or broker coordination, and communicates directly with customs authorities when necessary. Our goal is to resolve delays quickly, ensuring shipments move without unnecessary setbacks.
Yes, agents can work with their preferred customs brokers while utilizing our DAP shipping and end-to-end logistics services. We coordinate closely with brokers to ensure seamless documentation handling and efficient customs clearance.
We offer a variety of final-mile delivery options to match client needs, including standard road transport, expedited shipping, and specialized handling for oversized, fragile, or temperature-sensitive goods. Whether shipments require a cost-effective or urgent delivery solution, we provide flexible options to ensure they reach their destination safely and on time.
Yes, each agent is assigned a dedicated account manager who assists with booking, pricing inquiries, shipment tracking, and customs compliance. Our team provides personalized support, ensuring a smooth and efficient DAP shipping experience.
Customs clearance timelines vary based on destination country and shipment type, but most shipments clear within 24 to 48 hours. To expedite processing, we pre-screen documents, use electronic filing, and offer priority handling for urgent shipments.
When shipping under DAP terms to the US, agents must ensure that all commercial invoices are accurate and contain detailed product descriptions. Proper HS code classification is essential to prevent customs issues, and Importer Security Filing (ISF) must be submitted on time for ocean shipments. Additionally, compliance with US import restrictions for controlled goods is critical to avoid shipment rejections or penalties.
Whether you’re new to Delivered-at-place (DAP) shipping or need a comprehensive logistics partner, we provide cost-effective, compliant, and efficient solutions.
Contact iContainers today to streamline DAP shipments and simplify international trade operations.
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
It's Not Us. It's Our Customers Who Say This
Roca Tile USA has been using iContainers for serval years and they have really helped us grow by making the quoting and booking process super easy.
Isis Ramos
Logistics Unit at Roca Tile USA
iContainer´s platform is very user-friendly and provides us with the ease of mind with their automated pre-alerts. We highly recommend their services and diligent follow-up on rates and shipment status.
Irene Chang
Sales Executive at Transworld GLS
iContainers, as a provider, stands out for its level of service and quick responses. They verified the reservation as soon as the operation was opened.
Patrick G. Waddle
General Manager at Advance Global Logistics
