HOVERBOARD RECALLS DUE TO EXPLOSIONS

Back in January, we addressed Ongoing Hoverboard concerns and numerous CBP seizure cases. Now, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced ten companies have recalled about half a million self-balancing scooters/hoverboards made in China. However, the recall isn’t because of the countless risks hoverboards pose to unwary riders, instead it is because the lithium-ion battery packs in these products can overheat, creating a risk that the hoverboards will start to smoke, catch fire and/or explode. The list of the ten firms is here. Below are the models impacted:

Register NOW: Trade Day Hosted by CBP

Have you wanted a better relationship with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)? Wanted to meet key personnel within numerous departments of CBP and different PGA's? Here's the time to take advantage: Trade Day is coming to Miami, courtesy of CBP, on August 4, 2016. Did we mention it's FREE?! Calling all importers, exporters, customhouse brokers, freight forwarders and all other interested parties in the international trade community – if you have been looking for an opportunity to meet with government officials that are responsible for processing and facilitating trade related import transactions and to get educated and ask more questions about ACE and CEE's, this is your chance.

If you missed the previous Trade Day don’t miss this opportunity to:

ISF PENALTIES HAVE OFFICIALLY ARRIVED: SELF FILE AND SELF POLICE

Back in July, 2013, we warned CBP would start enforcement efforts for Importer Security Filing (ISF) violations. What’s ISF Again? The ISF rules require importers and vessel-operating carriers to provide additional advance trade data on cargo shipments to CBP 24 hours prior to vessel lading, pursuant to Section 203 of the Security and Accountability for Every Port (SAFE Port Act) of 2006. (Practitioners Tip – This ONLY applies to goods arriving to the U.S. by Sea, not air). Now, CBP advised:

SOLAS (Weigh or Pay) - Enforcement as of July 1, 2016

If you are involved in international trade, then you’ve recently heard the buzzword SOLAS and an enforcement date of July 1, 2016. Below contains a summary of SOLAS and what to be prepared for.

What is SOLAS?

• “SOLAS,” an acronym made from The International Convention for the “Safety of Life at Sea,” is an international treaty that governs the safe operation of all ships engaged in international maritime trade. The SOLAS Convention specifies the minimum standards for the construction, equipment, and operation of merchant ships. The United States is a signatory to SOLAS.

Who is responsible?