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Since as early as 1972, the identification number of the ultimate consignee
(you, the customer receiving the purchased items) has been required to
obtain the release of most imports into the U.S.A. The Bureau of Customs
and Border Protection (CBP) uses that information not only to target shipments
for closer scrutiny, but also for anti-terrorism purposes. Thus,
more than ever before, supplying the accurate identification numbers of ultimate
consignees is critical. It helps speed the customs clearance
process, avoids additional brokerage costs, and assists U.S.A. security efforts.
For shipments originating from Canada, going to the USA,
CanadianMoose.com (CM.C) is required to report the ultimate consignee's ID
number to CBP, along with other data pertaining to the cargo, in order to obtain
release of the shipment. Missing ID numbers will result in shipment delays
and possible return to Canada. In addition to causing delays
in delivery, failure to provide the ID number may result in additional handling,
brokerage, and storage charges (which CM.C will pass on to the customer).
Note: As of June 2005, our Moose Mugs will be
shipped from California, USA. Because of this, CanadianMoose.com WILL NOT require an SSN / EIN from USA customers who are ordering Moose Mugs.
Note: As of July 2010, we will need an SSN
/ EIN, ONLY for orders shipped from Canada, to USA destinations, that meet ANY
of the following criteria:
1. Maple
Syrup products
2. Adirondack
furniture
3. orders sent by courier.
CBP defines the 'ultimate consignee' as the U.S.A. buyer of the imported
goods. If the buyer is located outside the U.S.A., then the ultimate
consignee is the party located in the U.S.A. that will receive the goods.
The identification number the CBP requires is the Social Security Number (SSN)
issued to individuals or the Internal Revenue Service Employer Identification
Number (EIN - sometimes called the Federal Business ID #) issued to most
business entities. Ultimate consignees that do not have either an SSN or an
EIN may apply, in advance, to be assigned an ID number by the CBP.
CM.C includes the ultimate consignee ID number on the customs invoice that
accompanies each shipment. You may telephone
or fax your ID number to CM.C.
A few customers have asked for more documentation on our need
for the SSN / EIN numbers. Please click on the following picture for a
copy of the letter from FedEx, requesting the SSN / EIN numbers.
/AAFedEx_SSN_small.jpg)
Thanks for your understanding, your help in alleviating shipping delays, and
your help in reducing the terrorism threat in our wonderful countries.
Please contact us if you need any further information on the Customer
Identification issue. Have a great day!
Dan Herauf, owner
CanadianMoose.com
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