A continuous customs bond is a financial guarantee that covers an importer’s eligible customs transactions over a 12-month period in the United States. It guarantees payment of duties, taxes, and fees to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and helps ensure compliance with import requirements. Unlike a single-entry bond, a continuous bond can cover multiple shipments at different U.S. ports. It is commonly used by frequent importers to simplify clearance and avoid arranging a new bond for every entry.
A continuous customs bond is a surety bond filed with CBP covering all import entries made by an importer over a 12-month period, rather than a single-entry bond that covers only one transaction.
When a Continuous Bond Is Required
- Importers making more than two or three import entries per year
- Importers of goods regulated by FDA, USDA, or other government agencies
- Importers subject to anti-dumping or countervailing duty orders
The continuous bond amount must be at least 10 percent of all duties, taxes, and fees paid in the prior calendar year, with a minimum of $50,000.
For related logistics context, see glossary entries on Customs Bond, CBP, Importer of Record, and Customs Entry.
