A compliance assessment is a structured review of whether a business, shipment, process, or supply chain activity meets applicable laws, regulations, industry standards, and internal policies. In customs and logistics, it may examine import records, tariff classifications, valuation, origin claims, licences, broker procedures, security controls, and documentation accuracy. Compliance assessments help identify gaps before they lead to customs delays, penalties, audits, shipment holds, or higher operational risk.
A compliance assessment is a systematic review of an importer’s or exporter’s trade practices to evaluate adherence to customs laws, regulations, and internal controls. CBP conducts these under the Focused Assessment program.
What a CBP Focused Assessment Covers
- Customs classification and duty payment accuracy
- Country of origin declarations and marking compliance
- Valuation practices and related party transactions
- ISF compliance and anti-dumping duty order adherence
Importers can conduct internal assessments to identify and correct errors before a CBP audit. Prior disclosures significantly reduce penalties compared to CBP-initiated findings.
For related logistics context, see Dedola’s global logistics services and glossary entries on Prior Disclosure, CBP, Customs Entry, and Anti-Dumping Duties.
