An intensive exam is a detailed customs inspection where cargo is moved to an approved exam site or bonded facility so officers can unload, open, inspect, sample, or verify the shipment more thoroughly. In U.S. import logistics, an intensive exam is more involved than a document review, X-ray exam, or tailgate exam. It may be used when customs needs to confirm cargo contents, classification, value, country of origin, admissibility, or compliance with other agency requirements. Intensive exams can cause delays and may result in exam, handling, storage, drayage, or demurrage charges.
An intensive exam (also called a devanning exam or stuffing exam) is the most thorough type of CBP cargo examination. The container is transported to a Centralized Examination Station (CES), fully unloaded, and each piece of cargo is physically inspected by customs officers.
- Requires transporting the container from the terminal to a CES facility
- All cargo is removed and inspected individually
- The exam can take one to several days
- Costs typically range from $800 to $2,000 or more per container
- All costs including trucking, CES fees, and additional demurrage are borne by the importer
Intensive exams can be triggered by intelligence reports, random selection, or prior compliance issues. Having accurate, complete entry documentation reduces the likelihood of being selected.
For related logistics context, see glossary entries on CES, Customs Exam, X-Ray Exam, and Demurrage.
