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CBP Announces New eTool for Requesting 9808.00.30 Duty-Free Certificates from DCMA

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued an ABI administrative message announcing new procedures for requesting duty-free certificates from the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) for commercial shipments classified in Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) 9808.00.301.

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eTool Allows DFE Certificates to be Requested and Received Electronically

CBP states that DCMA, which provides the duty-free certification for all shipments entered under HTS 9808.00.30, has created a new Web-based application (eTool) for requesting duty-free entry (DFE) certificates, which became fully operational on February 22, 2007.

CBP adds that the eTool will allow filers to request their DFE certificates for commercial entries though a Web portal on DCMA's Web site at www.dcma.mil.

(Prior to the eTool becoming operational, filers made DFE certificate requests to DCMA via fax or mail.)

According to CBP, DCMA will review each electronic request and, if the merchandise is authorized for duty-free entry, DCMA will e-mail the DFE certificate to whomever the requestor identifies (e.g. customs broker, importer of record). The importer or customs broker then submits a paper copy of the DFE certificate to CBP. CBP notes that it will accept DFE certificates with DCMA's electronic signature.

"Quick Reference Guides," Training Video Posted to DCMA's Web Site

DCMA has posted to its Web site "Quick Reference Guides" for brokers, contracting officers, and contractors (http://www.dcma.mil/CBT/DFE/OVERVIEW.HTM). alsoavailablefrom this link is a duty-free entry awareness video.

DCMA has also posted two training videos (one for contractors and one for customs brokers and customs team members) to assist in using DFE and gaining access to eTools applications. (Videos available at http://www.dcma.mil/CBT/DFE/how2use.htm.)

1 HTS 9808.00.30 provides duty-free entry to "Articles for military departments: Materials certified to the Commissioner of Customs by the authorized procuring agencies to be emergency war material purchased abroad."

Salvatore Vasile (DCMA automated application)(718) 354-3787
Jennifer Dolan (CBP policy)(202) 344-2568

CBP ABI message (Adm: 07-0088, dated 04/13/07) available at http://www.brokerpower.com/cgi-bin/adminsearch/admmsg.view.pl?article=2007/2007-0088.ADM