September 16th, 2026

Important Notice re: US Customs & Border Protection (CBP) Enforcement

We would like to make you aware of an important U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforcement initiative that may impact importer accounts and shipment processing. CBP recently announced enhanced procedures to validate the accuracy of information provided on CBP Form 5106, the form used to establish and maintain Importer of Record (IOR) information. These procedures will apply not only to newly established importer accounts but also to existing importer records currently on file with CBP.

Beginning September 18, 2026, CBP has indicated that importer numbers may be invalidated if Form 5106 information is found to be incomplete, inaccurate, or unverifiable.

If an importer number is voided, it cannot be used for customs entry purposes until the importer successfully updates and reestablishes its account with CBP. This could result in delays to customs clearance, and potential disruptions to cargo movement.

Key Information CBP Will Be Reviewing

CBP has emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate importer information, including:

Physical Business Address

The address must reflect the importer's actual physical business location. PO Boxes, virtual office locations, business-service centers, or addresses belonging to customs brokers, freight forwarders, registered agents, or other third parties may not be accepted.

Email Address

The email address must belong directly to the importing company. Third-party email addresses, including those of brokers or freight forwarders, should not be used as the importer's primary contact email.

Telephone Number

The phone number must be valid and associated with the importer. Contact numbers belonging to brokers or other service providers may not satisfy CBP requirements.

Company Identification Information

Importer legal name, EIN, CBP-assigned number, or other identifying information must correspond to the importing entity.

Recommended Actions

We encourage all importers to review their current Form 5106 information and confirm that all business details on file with CBP are current and accurate. If there have been changes to your company's address, contact information, ownership structure, or tax identification details, those updates should be reviewed promptly.

Taking proactive steps now may help avoid clearance delays, shipment holds, or issues related to importer account validation after the enforcement date, not to mention the incurrence of extra storage or demurrage, while issues are fixed.

ACC