why fill up the power of attorney for an import?

by Prof. Isabell Reichel 10 min read

Power of Attorney is required any time an importer works with a customs broker to clear goods, whether the importer is a resident or non-resident, an individual, or business. There is no situation where you can legally work with a customs broker for importing in the United States without giving them Power of Attorney.

A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document used in shipping to grant a customs broker the authority to process Customs clearance on your behalf. A signed POA is necessary in order to clear your goods through US Customs.

Full Answer

Do I need a power of attorney to enter customs?

A Customs Power of Attorney is a specific type of Power of Attorney designed to be used by Custom Brokers. The form is specifically used by importers and other shipping companies that allow them to make necessary decisions regarding shipments that are under the jurisdiction of the Customs and Border Protection agency.

Can I import with a POA in the US?

The Power Of Attorney is a document that grants the freight forwarder or Customs broker the right to act on behalf of the consignor of the freight (usually, the shipper/buyer of the goods). The POA must be established before cargo is shipped, as the document will ensure that all communication regarding documentation and filing are routed to the appointed POA rather …

What is a power of attorney and why is it important?

May 25, 2018 · Validating the Power of Attorney Because the Power of Attorney (POA) can authorize the movement of conveyances and merchandise into the United States, it is critical that it be examined carefully. By ensuring that each POA is valid, the broker joins U.S. Custom and Border Protection on the national security frontlines in verifying the data used to screen what …

Do I need a power of attorney to enter the US?

Customs and Importing in the US: POA In Shipping. A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document used in shipping to grant a customs broker the authority to process Customs clearance on your behalf. A signed POA is necessary in order to clear your goods through US Customs. Your freight forwarder may offer brokerage services directly, or they may contract a brokerage service.

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What is POA in import?

Power of Attorney. When you become a Customs Support customer and need import- or export documents you need to give us your Power of Attorney. We need it to be allowed to act as your customs agent. When (potential) customers want to give us their power of attorney there are strict guidelines.Jan 22, 2021

What does POA mean in shipping?

Power of AttorneyIn shipping, Power of Attorney is used when an importer or an exporter appoints an agent to act on their behalf to handle parts of the shipment. POA is commonly used during customs clearance - this refers to the authorization the importer or the exporter gives to the customs broker to process clearance on their behalf.

What is POA at custom clearance?

A Power of Attorney (POA ), also known as a “Letter of Empowerment,” is a legal document used in the shipping industry to grant the customs broker you have appointed the legal authority to process customs clearance on your behalf.Sep 20, 2021

What is a POA for UPS?

A Power of Attorney (POA) authorizes UPS to act on the shipper's behalf for completion of one or both of the following documents: Shipper's Export Declaration or Certificate of Origin.

What is export POA?

Export Power of Attorney is a written authorization that a shipper (consignor) provides to a freight forwarder. The document contains a provision appointing the freight forwarder as an agent to prepare documentations and granting a power of attorney for that purpose.

What is an importer of record?

The party responsible for ensuring that imported goods comply with all customs and legal requirements of the country of import. This is usually the owner of the goods, but may also be a designated individual or customs broker.

Is a POA required to file ISF?

No, ISF still requires a general POA.Mar 15, 2019

Why does UPS need tax ID number?

Couriers shipping to certain countries may require a customer's Tax ID to be provided upon shipment creation to ensure smooth customs clearance. Failure to provide a Tax ID for certain countries may lead to issues at customs resulting in return or abandonment.

What is UPS customer service number?

(800) 742-5877United Parcel Service / Customer service

Transactions

Advantages

  • After retaining a POA, a Customs Broker does not have to file it with the port director. Instead, they must retain the power of attorney with their own books and papers, and make it available to the Department of the Treasury.
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Details

  • In the most simplified terms, a POA can only be granted to a United States resident and must be granted directly from the person or firm. Once granted, the power of attorney will allow the Broker to act on behalf of the person or firm and give them the right to make entry.
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Business

  • For the majority of business types, powers of attorney may be granted for an unlimited period. However there is one situation in which this differs, a partnership.
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Membership

  • A POA issued by a partnership must be limited to a period of no more than two years from the date of execution. and must state the names of all members of the partnership. If a change of membership occurs resulting in a new firm, the POA will no longer be effective for customs business.
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Examples

  • In most cases, a Customs Broker will provide their own form to establish a power of attorney. However, in the event that they do not, a Customs Form 5291 or a document with similar language may be used. The following image is an example of the language for an acceptable general POA with unlimited authority (19CFR 141.32).
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Purpose

  • Establishing a POA is a necessary step in the process of importing in the United States. Whether you are using a Customs Broker, a member of your staff, or different third-party to complete your transactions with Customs, a power of attorney will be required in most cases to establish the right to make entry.
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