If you’re importing goods into the United States, understanding what a customs bond is—and when you need one—is essential for staying compliant and avoiding costly delays. A customs bond is a legally binding agreement that ensures the importer will fulfill all obligations to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including payment of duties, taxes, and compliance with import regulations. Whether you’re a first-time importer or a seasoned logistics professional, knowing how customs bonds work can help you streamline the clearance process and protect your business from potential risks.

What is a Customs Bond?
A Customs Bond is a legal contract among three parties: the importer (the principal), a surety company, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This bond guarantees that an importer will comply with U.S. customs regulations and ensures that all duties, taxes, and fees related to imported goods are paid.
Customs bonds are required for all commercial imports valued over $2,500, which also includes shipments that may be duty-free. There are two main types of customs bonds:
- Single Entry Bond: Covers a one-time import shipment at a specific port.
- Continuous Bond: Covers multiple shipments over a year at any U.S. port.
These bonds serve as a safety net for the federal government, ensuring compliance is maintained and that financial obligations are fulfilled, thereby facilitating smoother international trade.
When Is a Customs Bond Required
You’ll need a Customs Bond in two main situations when importing goods into the United States:
Commercial Imports Over $2,500
If you’re bringing in commercial goods valued at $2,500 or more, a customs bond is required—even if the items qualify for duty-free treatment.
Regulated Commodities
For goods regulated by other federal agencies—such as the FDA, USDA, or EPA—a customs bond is required regardless of the shipment’s value. In many cases, the bond amount must be three times the value of the goods.
In addition, all international carriers transporting goods into the U.S. must have a valid customs bond, no matter the value of the cargo.
If you’re involved in commercial importing, understanding when and why a customs bond is needed is essential. It ensures compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, helping to avoid delays, penalties, or clearance issues.
What Amount Does a Customs Bond Cover?
A customs bond acts as a financial guarantee of any fees (including duties, taxes, and fines) owed to CBP on a shipment into the U.S. The amount that a bond covers is relative to the size of bond needed for the fees owed on the imported goods.
The continuous bond amount must equal at least 10% of the total duties and fees paid to the CBP (minimum $50,000). A single transaction bond, on the other hand, must equal one to three times the value of the merchandise, plus duties, taxes, and fees, to adequately cover your merchandise.
If you need a larger bond amount, please refer to CBP’s calculation table below:
Total Duties & Taxes | Bond Size |
$0 to $499,999 | $50,000 |
$500,000 to $599,999 | $60,000 |
$600,000 to $699,999 | $70,000 |
$700,000 to $799,999 | $80,000 |
$800,000 to $899,999 | $90,000 |
$900,000 to $999,999 | $100,000 |
$1,000,000 to $1,999,999 | $200,000 |
$2,000,000 to $2,999,999 | $300,000 |
$3,000,000 to $3,999,999 | $400,000 |
$4,000,000 to $4,999,999 | $500,000 |
$5,000,000 to $5,999,999 | $600,000 |
$6,000,000 to $6,999,999 | $700,000 |
$7,000,000 to $7,999,999 | $800,000 |
How Much Does a Customs Bond Cost?
The cost of a customs bond depends on the type of bond and the nature of your import activity. A Single Entry Bond (SEB) is intended for one-time shipments and is typically calculated based on the value of the goods plus any duties and fees, ranging from $3 to $7.50 per $1,000 of the bond amount, with a minimum fee of $50 to $75. If you’re importing regulated goods (such as those overseen by the FDA or EPA), the required bond amount may be up to three times the shipment value, which can significantly raise the cost. For ocean freight, you may also need an Importer Security Filing (ISF) bond, which adds about $75.
A Continuous Bond, by contrast, covers all your imports over 12 months and is generally more cost-effective for frequent importers. The bond amount is typically set at $50,000 or 10% of the total duties, taxes, and fees paid to U.S. Customs in the previous year, rounded up to the nearest $10,000. Instead of paying the full bond amount, you pay an annual premium—usually between $225 and $750, depending on your credit standing and the surety provider.
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Customs Bond:
- Bond Type: As explained above, continuous bonds are generally more cost-effective for regular importers than multiple single-entry bonds.
- Bond Amount: A higher bond amount (which reflects higher anticipated duties, taxes, and fees) will result in a higher premium.
- Importer’s Creditworthiness: Your financial strength and import history can influence the rate you receive. Importers with strong financials may be eligible for better rates.
- Type of Merchandise: Certain types of goods, especially those subject to specific regulations (e.g., FDA, EPA) or high tariffs, may require higher bond amounts or premiums due to increased risk.
- Surety Company: Different surety companies and customs brokers will have their pricing structures and underwriting requirements.
- Import Volume and Risk: The higher your import volume and the perceived risk associated with your imports, the more expensive the bond might be.
How to Get a Customs Bond
Obtaining a customs bond is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:
- Determine the Type of Bond You Need: Choose between a Single Entry Bond, which covers a one-time shipment, or a Continuous Bond, which covers multiple shipments over 12 months. The right choice depends on how often you import.
- Choose a Bond Provider: You can obtain a customs bond directly from a surety company licensed by the U.S. Treasury; however, most importers typically work through a licensed customs broker. Brokers can assist with handling the paperwork and expedite the approval process.
- Complete the Application: Complete the required forms, including CBP Form 301, which requests information about your business and import activities.
- Pay the Bond Premium: The cost varies based on the bond type. A Single Entry Bond typically costs 0.5% to 0.7% of the shipment’s value. A Continuous Bond usually costs $500 to $600 per year, depending on your risk profile and import volume.
- Submit Your Bond to CBP: Once the bond is secured, submit the completed bond documentation to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for approval. Processing typically takes a few days.
- Maintain Compliance: After your bond is approved, ensure you follow all customs regulations and keep track of renewal dates to avoid lapses, penalties, or shipment delays.