Customs_Brokerage

U.S. Customs and FDA Operational Update in response to COVID-19

U.S. Customs & FDA Operational Readiness: agencies are maintaining regular operations and monitoring events for potential disruptions.

U.S. Operational Readiness:

  • U.S. Customs: Clarification — The Presidential Proclamation issued March 11, 2020 was specific to travelers and not cargo.
    • Cargo is not currently considered as a transmission vehicle for the COVID-19 virus.
    • If U.S. Customs receive different guidance it will be shared immediately.
    • Transportation crew may be subject to additional health screening.
  • U.S. Customs: Volumes
    • Decline in express cargo, and overall slow-down in air cargo.
    • Vessels leaving China have declined but still allowed to arrive at U.S. ports.
  • U.S. Customs: Staffing
    • No negative impact.
    • Where possible, teleworking takes effect this week.
    • Officers with suspected exposure will quarantine for 14 days.
    • Contingency plans in place to prioritize critical functions.
  • U.S. Customs: Other
    • USMCA implementation is still a priority and focus of The Office of Trade. Planned meetings now via webinars and conference calls.
    • Entry Type 86 Data Pilots are not impacted at this time.
    • To facilitate combatting the virus CBP will grant exclusions for items that will help.
  • FDA: Operations
    • Remaining functional and operational to include all current processes such as:
      • Prior notice reviews
      • Entry processing
      • Sampling and exams
      • FSVP inspections
      • Filler assessments
      • All compliance activities
  • Expecting to process fewer hard-cop FDA Notice of Action and will utilize Import Trade Auxiliary Communication Systems (ITACS). DB Schenker already utilizes electronic notices.
  • FDA will continue monitoring events and will provide updates as needed.

As DB Schenker continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation and effect on the global supply chain, stay current via Twitter, LinkedIn, or our Blog. For any immediate questions or assistance, please contact your local account manager or one of our offices closest via www.dbschenker.com.

We appreciate your continued support as a valued customer.

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Client Notice - U.S. Customs and FDA Operations - 03172020