In the modern world of ABIs, ACEs and electronic manifests, members of international trade community become more and more removed from traditional method of paper releases and old fashioned stamps. Yet, paper document serving as the evidence of importation may be required when dealing with non-U.S. governments who require proof of entry. Such proof, based on electronic print screens or private party certifications may not suffice. In these instances, members of international trade community should consult CBP Directive 3550-017B.
The directive outlines three methods of obtaining an old fashioned stamp. The procedure is called “Official Certification of Documents.”
- Method 1: Members of international trade community may go to the CBP Port of Entry and request Entry Officer (or Import Specialist, depending on the port) to certify the entry via CBP Form 3227 (a.k.a. Certificate of Disposition of Imported Merchandise).
- Method 2: Same as method one, except members of international trade community can use Department of Commerce Form 647P (a.k.a. Delivery Verification Certificate).
- Method 3: Inward foreign manifest. Submit the part of the manifest listing the merchandise and annotate as stated under ¶ 5.1.2 of the directive.
- Method 4: Provide CBP officer with a copy of CBP Form 7501 and request the officer to “certify the official disposition of merchandise” in accordance with ¶ 5.15 of the directive.
Depending on the port, some officers may be more comfortable with the use of one method as opposed to another.
