- ISF filing — at least 24 hours before loading in Vietnam. See ISF guide.
- Carrier manifest transmitted to CBP before arrival.
- Entry filing (CBP Form 3461 data) — usually before or on arrival, so CBP can review early.
- CBP and agency review — CBP screens risk; FDA, USDA, CPSC and others review their products. Possible outcomes: release, hold, exam.
- Exam (if selected) — X-ray or physical inspection — see CBP exams.
- Release — cargo can leave the terminal.
- Entry summary (CBP Form 7501 data) and duty payment — generally within 10 working days of release.
- Liquidation — CBP finalises the entry, normally around 314 days after entry; corrections and protests are possible within set deadlines.
Who does what
| Party | Role |
|---|---|
| Importer of record | Legally responsible; pays duties — see IOR |
| Customs broker | Files entries in ACE on the IOR's behalf |
| Forwarder | Coordinates data, freight and delivery |
| Exporter in Vietnam | Provides accurate invoice, packing list and product data |
Most delays start with inaccurate data. Related: entry types · agency requirements.