Can Tariffi file my refund claim directly?

No. Tariffi is a data-preparation platform, not a licensed customs broker. Your licensed broker partner is always the Filer of Record. Tariffi prepares the data; your broker files it.

How do I find a licensed customs broker?

CBP maintains a directory of licensed brokers. Tariffi also partners with licensed brokers who specialize in refund recovery and can handle your CAPE declaration.

Participants

What is Customs Broker?

A licensed professional authorized by CBP to transact customs business on behalf of importers under 19 U.S.C. section 1641. In the context of U.S. customs and tariff recovery, understanding customs broker is essential for navigating the CAPE refund process and ensuring accurate duty assessment.

Definition

A customs broker is an individual or firm licensed by CBP to transact customs business on behalf of importers. Licensing requires passing a rigorous examination (the customs broker license exam, administered by CBP) and meeting character and background requirements. Under 19 U.S.C. section 1641, only licensed customs brokers may classify goods, prepare and file entry documentation, pay duties on behalf of importers, and otherwise transact customs business. Brokers serve as the intermediary between importers and CBP, ensuring compliance with the thousands of regulations governing international trade.

How Customs Broker Relates to Tariff Refunds

A licensed customs broker is legally required to file your CAPE refund declaration. Tariffi is a data-preparation platform — not a broker — and cannot file directly with CBP. Your broker is the Filer of Record under 19 U.S.C. section 1641. Tariffi partners with licensed brokers to provide a seamless experience: we prepare the data, the broker reviews and transmits.

Example

Broker ABC, holding CBP license #12345 and Filer Code XYZ, reviews the CAPE-ready CSV that Tariffi prepared from the importer's ES-003 data. After confirming the entries and amounts, the broker transmits the declaration through ACE using their ABI-connected software.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Tariffi file my refund claim directly?: No. Tariffi is a data-preparation platform, not a licensed customs broker. Your licensed broker partner is always the Filer of Record. Tariffi prepares the data; your broker files it.
How do I find a licensed customs broker?: CBP maintains a directory of licensed brokers. Tariffi also partners with licensed brokers who specialize in refund recovery and can handle your CAPE declaration.

Legal References

19 U.S.C. § 1641 — Customs Brokers
19 CFR Part 111 — Customs Broker Regulations

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Questions? support@tariffi.io