For enterprises engaged inHardware & ToolsFor exportingforeign tradeFor enterprises, customs declaration documents are the pass for smooth customs clearance and an important credential for subsequent tax processing and logistics tracking. Many clients ask us:How to quickly and accurately checkfor containers exported to the USthe status of customs clearance documents? As a professional agency with 12 years of expertise in China-US trade, weve compiled the following practical guide to help you master all key aspects of the process.

I. Why is it essential to monitor customs document queries?

1.Compliance risk control: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strictly examines document authenticity. Errors or omissions may lead to cargo detention, fines, or even credit downgrades.
2.Logistics Time Guarantee: Document status directly affects customs clearance speed. Timely queries can avoid demurrage charges caused by shipping delays.
3.Tax Refund Voucher Management: ChinaExport DrawbackRequires submission of the customs declaration form (tax refund copy), with electronic data matching the customs system.

II. Complete Process for Querying US Export Customs Documents

? Step 1: Confirm document type and number

Main customs declaration documents required by U.S. CBP include:

• ISF (Importer Security Filing): 10+2 filing, submitted 24 hours before vessel loading
• Entry Number (Customs Entry Number): 11-digit number assigned by CBP (e.g.: 123-4567890-1)
• Bill of Lading (B/L Number):Maritime TransportationMaster Bill of Lading (MBL) orAir TransportationHouse Bill of Lading (HBL)

Key actionsAir Waybill (MAWB)

? Step 2: Choose official or third-party query platforms

Platform 1: US CBP Official System (Recommended)

• : Request these numbers from your freight forwarder or customs broker and verify consistency with commercial invoices and packing lists.Website
• : https://ace.cbp.dhs.gov:
  1. Operation Steps
  2. After logging in, enter the Entry Summary module
  3. Request a customs explanation through CBP Form 28
• AdvantagesAfter login, access the Entry Summary module

Platform 2: Automated Customs System (Third-party)

• : Authoritative data source, allows PDF download of customs entry summary:
  • Recommended Platforms
  • Descartes CustomsInfo? (global customs database)
• Applicable scenariosTradewin ACE Reporter (visual data analysis tool)

Platform 3: Ocean/Air Freight Tracking Platforms

• : Required for batch historical queries or compliance report generation:
  • Common Tools
  • Air Freight: Track-Trace (www.track-trace.com）)
• FunctionReverse association of customs declaration status via Bill of Lading number (partially supported)

? Step 3: Parsing Key Fields of Query Results

Field Name	Normal Status	Risk Warnings
Entry Type	IMM (Immediate Release)	If HOLD is displayed, contact the customs broker
Total Duty	Difference between estimated and actual duties ≤5%	Excessive discrepancies may trigger CBP audit
Release Date	Within 3 business days after arrival	Overdue cases require documentation issue investigation

Solutions to Common Issues

? Question 1: The query shows Document Not Found

Possible Reasons:

• Incorrect document number entry (note distinction between letter O and number 0)
• Customs broker has not completed declaration (confirm ISF submission time)

? Issue 2: Cargo arrived at port but not cleared customs

Countermeasures:

1. Page 30
2. Authorize AEO-certified customs broker for expedited processing (can reduce by 48 hours)