Section 321: Informal Entries

Posted on Aug 11

An increase to the De Minimis value from $200 to $800 took place in March 2016, as a result of the President signing the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015. The increase allows for more low value informal entries to be processed based on the same processes and restrictions previously in place when the lower value was acceptable. Commonly referred to as, “Section 321,” CBP’s purpose of the provision is to minimize expense and inconvenience to the government disproportionate to the revenue that is collected.The port director may require a formal entry for any merchandise if determined necessary for enforcement purposes, revenue protection, or the efficient conduct of customs business.FDA has also revised requirements for the release of low value shipments. Certain products like cosmetics and dinnerware, for example, may be released without notice to FDA.