On: April 23, 2025 By: David Noah
Not sure when to use an HS code vs. a Schedule B number? You’re not alone. Many U.S. exporters use the terms interchangeably—but getting them wrong can lead to compliance issues, shipping delays and incorrect AESDirect filings.
On: April 16, 2025 By: David Noah
Proforma and commercial invoices may look alike, but they serve very different purposes in the export process. Using the wrong form—or filling it out incorrectly—can delay your exports. We break down the key differences, explain when to use each one and provide tools to help you complete them accurately every time.
On: March 26, 2025 By: Mitch Kostoulakos
To export samples without customs delays, penalties or service issues, you need to understand the three Ds: Documentation, Description and Dollars.
On: March 24, 2025 By: David Noah
The decision to participate in USMCA isn’t always a slam dunk—especially now, with regular talk of new tariffs and questions about the agreement’s future. However, understanding how free trade certificates of origin work remains essential for exporters. Here are five reasons you may decide not to complete a USMCA Certificate of Origin.
On: March 12, 2025 By: David Noah
At first glance, the differences between a packing list and bill of lading appear small. But when you understand how and when both are properly used during an import-export transaction, you see how important it is to correctly use both forms.
On: March 10, 2025 By: Mitch Kostoulakos
Most customs delays happen because of these three common mistakes on the commercial invoice—and they’re easy to prevent! Follow these best practices to keep your shipments moving and avoid costly disruptions.
On: March 3, 2025 By: Arnesh Roy
Don't be overwhelmed by the hundreds of international shipping terms. We've published a glossary of more than 250 trade terms used by importers and exporters. Bookmark this page and refer to it when you stumble across a word or acronym that has you stumped.
On: February 26, 2025 By: Sean Whitworth
If you're using wood pallets or other wood packaging materials for exports, you must comply with ISPM 15 regulations to avoid costly delays and fines. Learn about WPM requirements, treatment methods, documentation and best practices to keep your shipments moving smoothly.
On: January 8, 2025 By: David Noah
Most export regulations require you to keep copies of your export documents for a minimum of five years, but recent changes have bumped that requirement to 10 years in some situations. Learn how the updated rules affect document retention timelines, when the retention period starts and which export documents you must save.
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