How Do I...?

Process a TIB entry?
Request an extension for a TIB?
Why don't my CF3461 processing results print?
Create a CF5106?
Upload CF7501 data for transmission?
Batch print CF7501s?
Upload OGA Data on the CF7501?
Use the Elected entry date?
Process an FTZ entry?
Update tariff numbers?
What's the Initials field on the Log Edit screen for?
What do I need to know about billing codes?
Enter OGA data?
Transmit Corrections to OGA data?
Use the Parts Number Database?
Prepare an Entry Using the Part Number Database?
Prepare a quota query?
Flag Entries for Reconciliation?
Use the ABI: 3461 and ABI: 7501 fields?
Edit entry level user fees?
Know which action code to use when updating or correcting an entry?
Do a bill of lading update?
Input value and quantities when an item has multiple HTS numbers?
Control consolidation of HTS numbers on an entry?
Delete an invoice from the worksheet?
Go directly to a specific invoice on the worksheet?
Show multiple ports of lading?
Suppress MPF on a NAFTA entry?
What gets uploaded in upload all others?
How do I handle Special program (CBTPA, AGOA) 98xx Numbers?

  1. 7501 TIB Processing

    With a TIB you need to calculate what the duty would be and print it as a summation on the 7501. However you do not transmit it.

    The procedure is:

    • On the Worksheet enter the 9813 number with the value and an "I" in the I/O column.
    • Expand this tariff number line with F8
    • Enter the 2nd HTS number with the value and an "O" in the I/O column.
    • Calc the duty with F7.

    You should not need to make any changes on the 7501 screen.

    From the 7501 screen use F8 to expand the 9813 line. You will see both the 9813 and the 2nd HTS number with the value. Use F8 to expand the 2nd HTS number line. You will see the Duty and Fees with a "CASE" number of 1 instead of the usual 0. This is the duty and fees that will be printed on the 7501.

    A duty code of less than 016 is shown in the TIB summation. (This will include AD, CVD.)

    The CASE would be 2 for a DCASR entry.

    Technical Info: There is a file with the HTS numbers, Message Number and Penalty Percentage. This can be edited with CBTLED. The actual message can be edited with CBMEED. The message edit is on the Database Menu as Option 16. The HTS/Penalty file is on the Database Menu as Option PEN.

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  2. To request an extension for a TIB:

    • Use Tracking Inquiry to locate file.
    • Use F8 to EXPAND to tracking data.
    • Use F6 to request a TIB extension.
    • The response is shown on the Tracking Expansion screen.

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  3. 3461 Printing Problems

    Processing Results do not print

    If a file has been sent to customs and results have been received but do not print on the 3461 the probable cause is that neither 3461 nor 7501 have a "Y" in the ABI field on the Log screen. (The ABI CERTIFIED message will print although it probably should not!) In addition, the "stamp" data will not be printed.

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  4. 5106 Data

    5106 data is entered as part of the customer record.

    U.S. citizens should be identified by Social Security numbers and U.S. corporations should be identified by Internal Revenue Service (IRS) numbers. Customs assigned numbers are usually only assigned to foreign nationals and companies without an IRS or Social Security number.

    • U.S. Importers:
      1. Valid formats for the Importer of Record Number are:

        • NN-NNNNNNNXX - IRS Number
        • NNN-NN-NNNN - Social Security Number

        Note: In these codes, N = number and X = alphanumeric.
        Note: If the importer number is in IRS format, the last two-position suffix (XX) cannot be the letters O, I and/or Z.

      2. An importer type code is required for all U.S. importers. Valid Importer type codes are:
        • C - Corporation
        • P - Partnership
        • I - Individual
        • S - Sole Proprietor

      3. The state is validated against the first 3 digits of the zip code.
        If the country field is left blank US is assumed.

    • Foreign Importers:
      1. To request a Customs assigned number, leave the IRS field blank then respond Y to the system question generated prior to the upload.

      2. If the country is Canada (CA) the zip code must be in the following format: ANANAN (where A = alphabetic; N = numeric).

      3. For Canada the province code is entered in the state field.
          Valid province codes are:
        • AB Alberta
        • NB New Brunswick
        • BC British Columbia
        • MB Manitoba
        • NS Nova Scotia
        • ON Ontario
        • PE Prince Edward Island
        • PQ Quebec
        • SK Saskatchewan
        • NT Northwest Territories
        • NF Newfoundland
        • YT Yukon Territory

      4. For all other foreign addresses, the state code is FN (foreign) and combinations of up to 9 position alphanumeric codes are allowed in the zip code field.

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  5. Uploading 7501 Data

    F14 from the 7501 screen will prepare the data for upload unless ABI 7501 is NO on the log screen. In that case F14 will allow printing the 7501 from this screen.

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  6. Printing 7501s

    When batch printing 7501 there are three options:

    • Print all 7501s
    • Print only Paperless 7501s
    • Print only Non-Paperless 7501s

    If Paperless Only is selected, there is an additional option to print only enhanced paperless files. Enhanced Paperless are files on ACH with no census warnings and are entry type 1, 6 or 11.

    If a Laser printer is available printing only a file copy of the paperless entries on the laser printer helps reduce forms cost.

    If an "X" is entered on CBLGED, "ABI/A" will print on the 7501 even if 7501 screen has payment type 1 (single check) (in anticipation of retransmitting 7501 data later).

    ABI/S will print if the payment type is "3" but there is no entry in the Payor file for that importer customer number

    Normally HTS data is sorted in ascending order. At some ports Customs requires that 7501s, and 3461s have the HTS numbers listed in the order shown on the Commercial Invoice. This is controlled by a system flag (7501SEQ) in SYSTEM.DATA,ABI. If this flag is "Y" the order is controlled by the worksheet. Whatever order the HTS numbers are shown on the worksheet is the order that will be used on the printed 7501, the 7501 Edit Screen and the transmission to ABI. An additional flag (OPT3461, Position 3) is used to change the order on the 3461.

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  7. Uploading OGA Data on the CF7501

    If the action code is "C" (Correction) no OGA data will be transmitted. FCC OGA data must be transmitted on the 7501. If other OGA data was transmitted on the 3461 the preparer will be asked if they wish to transmit the data anyways.

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  8. Elected Entry Date

    To force a specific date to be used as the Estimated Entry Date for Customs (such as at the end of the year to use next years rates):

    On the Log Screen put the Estimated Entry Date in the PRESENT field and E in the ELECT? field.

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  9. FTZ Data

    For a Foreign Trade Zone entry (entry type 06) enter FTZ followed by a 4 position character code in the Vessel Name field on the Log Screen.

    On the 7501 Edit Screen:

    Enter the FTZ Status

    • P-Privileged Foreign Merchandise
    • D-Domestic Merchandise
    • N-Non-privileged Foreign Merchandise
    • Z-Zone Restricted Merchandise

    If Privileged Foreign Merchandise, enter the privileged status filing date in the PERMIT DATE field. The date must be on or before today.

    NOTE: The STATUS CODE field is no longer used. The FTZ Number is printed on the 7501 in the carrier block.

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  10. HTS Updates

    USCS will occasionally update their copy of the tariff before a regular download is scheduled. This causes a difference between our database and USCS' database. The normal indication is a message that there is a mismatch on estimated fees (EST FEE NO MATCH TO COMPUTED FEE) There is a difficulty if you request an update for an HTS number and the only response from customs is that the number has expired but we don't know when it expired.

    1. Single HTS number

      • Use HTS Inquiry (Opt 11 from the database menu or any other way to get to this screen).
      • Locate the HTS #,and press F8 to request an update AS OF THE DATE DISPLAYED (this update will handle terminations).
      • Then type in the current date in the FROM field and press F8 to request current data on the HTS (this will update todays data).
      • Next use the "UPLOAD ALL OTHER DATA" option on the transmit menu to process the HTS request. The request should be processed in the next ABI transmission.

    2. HTS Range

      • Use the HTS Inquiry (Opt 11 from the database menu).
      • Fill in the "AS OF" field with the date and the FOR and TO field with the start and end of the range.
      • The FOR and TO field do not have to be actual HTS numbers. The cursor must be in one of these three fields when you press F8 for the computer to know that you want a range instead of a single HTS number.

        Customs will send a maximum of 100 HTS numbers so you can not update large sections using this method. In addition, this will not catch deleted HTS numbers. (See notes above about deletions.)

    3. Large Downloads

      Occasionally (like December of every year), UCSC generates massive changes to the HTS database. .

      Large HTS updates from USCS are identified in Administrative Messages. They have a title of HSUYYNN where YY is the current year and NN is the sequential update message.

      • Watch for these in the AdMin messages!

      • Go to the EXTRACT FILES option (typically Opt 25 on the ABI TRANSMIT menu).

      • Use a code of 10, fill in the HSU# column with the full YYNN number.

      • USCS recommends that you break up the download into pieces. Therefore it is a good idea to keep the size of the download under 20000 records The START and END can be left blank unless there are significantly more than 20000 records.

      • The Heading of the Admin messages can be edited from the expand screen. Edit the heading when you request an update to reflect the date and initials of the person requesting the update.

      HINT: To review what downloads have been done, go to "INQ DOWNLOAD STATUS" (typically option 7 on the Communications Menu). Type F in the TASK column and press F5. The display will normally start with H. Use F2 to scroll backwards. HTS UPDATES will show in the MESSAGE data. The message will contain F110YYNN where YYNN is the HSU number that was downloaded.

      NOTE: The updates must be downloaded in sequence to keep the database correct.

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  11. Operator Initials

    There are three login IDs saved:

    • The worksheet creator,
    • the invoice creator
    • and the last invoice editor.

    The login id of the person who created the Worksheet is recordedin the ENTRY.DESC file. This is assumed to be the party responsible for the file. This party's initials can be printed with the initials of the Account Manager from the customer file on 3461s, 7501s, and Meat MID Forms

    They are used in the Profitability Report, either printed (if by customer) or sorted (if by creator).

    The initials can be changed by program CBURIQ. This program is restricted so that the initials cannot be changed arbitrarily.

    The invoice creator is determined when a new invoice is created, either using the invoice edit or when an invoice is automatically created (after logging in a file or calcing a worksheet).

    The last invoice editor is recorded whenever the invoice is edited. The last editor's initials can be printed on the invoice.

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  12. Billing Codes

    Two character billing codes are used. Data for each code is contained in the Standard Billing File. For each code a short name, default invoice description, revenue and expense accounts and accounting flags are entered.

    The revenue accounting flag is used to require that a revenue amount be entered before an invoice can be printed.

    The expense flag is used to prompt or force the operator to record the proper payables. A particular code can require that the expense be:

    • identical to the revenue (Duty and Fees)
    • non-zero (Freight Expenses)
    • zero (Handling Charges)
    • optional.

    If an expense is optional or required, it will default to the revenue amount if not entered manually. If an expense is required or an expense amount is entered a vendor number must be entered.

    Although there is a default invoice description in the Standard Billing File the default can be overridden on the actual invoice.

    There are special codes to handle Customs Duty and Fees. The codes have a blank for the first character. The second character is "D" for Duty and "F" for fees.

    A system flag determines whether duty and fees are combined as one entry on the invoice or listed separately. If the flag is set to combine Duty and Fees only the " D" code will appear.

    If the Standard Billing File description for Duty and/or Fees is blank the default invoice description will be read from the Rate Type file for the appropriate 3 digit code (000 for duty).

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  13. OGA Data

    To enter OGA data:

    • Get to CBOGA2 screen (F9 from HTS screen in Log edit, F16 from Worksheet, (F16 from 7501).

    • Type in the appropriate code (DOT, FDA, FWS) and press F5.

    • You will expand to the appropriate screen and can enter data.

    Data entered on the worksheet will be properly carried forward to the 7501 screen.

    The Oga data is saved as File + seq number. Therefore data entered using the 3461 screens can be accessed from the 7501 screens or the same data can be used on multiple lines. When entering a "new" OGA line that is the same as data previously entered, Type the appropriate code (eg FDA) under OGA and press F5 to expand to the detail screen. A new "line" number is assigned but can be changed or inquired to use "old" data.

    A copy function allows copying data from one file to another or from one line on a file to a new one. If the lines are on the same file and are identical, then there is no need to copy the data. The same line number can be used with different 7501 or 3461 lines.

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  14. To transmit Corrections to OGA data

    (Pgm ULOGCP)
    • Correct the data on the appropriate (3461 or 7501) screens.

    • Use Menu Option, XMIT menu (31) - Enter file number and where the data is (3461 or 7501). Default is 7501. Data is prepared for transmission (upload all other is not required).

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  15. The Part Number Database

    The part number database consists of data used in creating an entry that is identified by a part number that is unique for an importer. The part number can be alphanumeric data of up to 24 characters.

    The data can be entered as an independent function accessed from the database menu. It can also be added "on the fly" while doing an entry. The basic data consists of a part number, HTS number and a description. Additional data, such as unit quantities and values as well as OGA data can also be entered.

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  16. Prepare an Entry Using the Part Number Database

    To prepare an entry using the part number database:

    1. Start the file in the usual manner by entering the log data.
    2. Use F18 (shift F8) from the log screen to access the part number entry screen.
    3. Type the invoice number and press enter to create a new invoice. This is the invoice number that will show on the worksheet and 7501. It can be numbers or letters and is 12 characters max.
    4. Type the MID (or use F4 to look it up) and the currency code.
    5. When you enter a part number and press tab the appropriate units will be displayed.
    6. If all items are from the same country, you need enter the country only on the first line. Additional lines will replicate the country down the list. In a similar manner, if there are multiple entries of the same part number you can leave the part number blank (but fill in the value) and the part number will replicate.
    7. The screen will scroll to accomodate as many lines as are required.
    8. Press F1 to finish one invoice. You can then enter another invoice if required. When looking at previously entered data you can use F2 and F3 to scroll through the invoices.
    9. Use menu option 2 to go to the worksheet. Type in the file number AND PRESS F8 (NOT ENTER!!) to convert the part number data to the worksheet. If previous data had been entered you will be asked if you want to delete the old data.
    10. Any additional data can be entered on the worksheet at this point.
    11. You MUST at least look at each invoice and answer the Related? (Y/N) question (other things happen at this point as well that need to happen before calc).
    12. Calc and process in the normal way.

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  17. How to query quota

    • Go to the operations menu.
    • Go to the Query Menu (18)
    • Select Option 1. Fill in the appropriate columns (Just country for everything for one country or Country + HTS number or just HTS number, etc).
    • Press enter to read the screen. F1 to return to query menu.
    • Do an "UPLOAD ALL OTHER DATA" (You can do it from this menu with option 100). The next transmission will then request the quota data.
    • View the results with option 51 on this menu or option 12 on the database menu.

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  18. Flagging Entries for Reconciliation

    Individual entry summaries can be flagged for reconciliation. The flags are located on the MISC screen off the Log Edit screen.

    The NAFTA Indicator (if used) must be '1'.

    The Other Indicator (if used) must be:

    • 001 - Value Issue
    • 002 - Class Issue
    • 003 - 9802 Issue
    • 004 - Value/Class Issue
    • 005 - Value/9802 Issue
    • 006 - Class/9802 Issue
    • 007 - Value/Class/9802 Issue

    There is a file (ABI/RECON) that has a list of customer numbers that may be subject to reconciliation. If an entry is done for a customer in this file without specifying reconciliation there will be a warning when exiting the Log Screen.

    Reconciliation Summary Submission:
    Currently the programming to send reconciliation entries (type 09) has not been done.

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  19. How are the ABI: 3461 and ABI: 7501 fields on the log screen related?

    These fields are located on the Log Edit screen. They affect the way ABI transmission are sent. They work in conjunction with each other and perform transaction processing (certification) and cargo release processing (selectivity) functions as follows:

     
    ABI:
    3461
    ABI:
    7501
    Transaction Processing
    (Certification)
    Cargo Release Processing
    (Selectivity)
    Comments
    N C 7501 data is ABI certified Selectivity is performed on 7501 data. This is the recommended procedure.
    Y Y Both 3461 and 7501 data is ABI certified Selectivity is performed on 3461 data Use this combination when selectivity is to be performed on the entry (CF3461) data. Use F8 from the Log Screen to enter HTS info for transmission.
    N N No certification is requested. No selectivity is requested. Use this combination for a Non-ABI transaction.
    N Y Manual 3461 data. 7501 is ABI certified. No selectivity is requested  
    Y N     Customs does not allow this combination. An ABI entry requires an ABI entry summary
    Y C Both 3461 and 7501 data is ABI certified Selectivity is performed on 7501 data 3461 data is ignored,

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  20. What are the entry level user fees, and how can I edit them?

    There are three entry level fees:

    • Code 311 - Informal Fee
    • Code 496 - Dutiable Mail Fee
    • Code 500 - Manual Surcharge

    Source: CATAIR ENS-35

    The entry level fees are accessed from the 7501 Master Data screen.

    To edit entry level fees:

    • Place the cursor in a field above the invoice line table (such as the payment type field);
    • Press F8. You will be asked if you wish to edit Entry Level Fees. Responding yes will take you to the Duty Computation screen and show any entry level fees.

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  21. What are the meanings of the update action codes, and how do I know which one to use?

    The four valid update action codes for CF7501 data are:

    • A - Add entry summary data
    • C - Correct rejected entry summary data
    • D - Delete entry summary data
    • R - Replace entry summary data

    1. The A (Add) update action code is used to add new entry summary data or update entry summary data that has previously been added to ACS.

      If the update action code is A and the entry summary data is not already in ACS, the data will be added.

      If the update action code is A and the entry summary data was previously entered in ACS, the new data will replace the previously entered data if the broker reference number of the new data is equal to the broker reference number of the previously entered data. If the broker reference numbers do not match, the add transaction will be rejected. If the add action code is being used as a replace and the broker reference number is blank in either the new data or the previously entered data, or both are blank, the add transaction being used as a replace will be rejected.

    2. The R (Replace) update action code replaces a record previously entered in ACS. There is no validation with the broker reference number. If the entry numbers match, the data will be replaced.

    3. The C (Correct) update action code corrects previously transmitted data that is found to be in error after the entry summary has been filed with Customs and subsequently rejected.

      Note:   Quota entries processed through the automated quota system cannot be corrected until the reported quota merchandise has been deleted from the quota system (usually by the U.S. Customs Service Headquarters Quota Section).

    4. The D (Delete) update action code deletes a record previously entered in ACS.

      Note:   If CF7501 data is certified for cargo release processing, the release data is retained in a separate ACS file. The D (Delete) update action results in the deletion of the entry summary data from ACS, but does not affect the separate ACS file containing the cargo release data. That file can be deleted only if Customs cargo release processing (Selectivity) has not ocurred and then only through the use of the D (delete) update through ????***********????

      A, C, and R are interchangeable with the exception that if A is used as a replace, the broker reference number must match as stated above.

    Source: CATAIR ENS-11

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  22. How do I do a B/L update?

    The bill of lading update program provides users the ability to replace and correct bill of lading/AWB numbers and certain related cargo release data for air and vessel shipments even after selectivity has been processed for the entry.

    The following actions are allowed:

    • Replace carrier codes
    • Delete erroneous bill of lading numbers
    • Add correct bill of lading numbers
    • Replace incorrect quantities and units
    • Replace voyage/flight numbers
    • Replace FIRMS codes
    • Replace estimated arrival dates

    Corrections can be made up to 15 days after whichever date is first applicable in the following list:

    • The release date
    • The actual date of arrival
    • The estimated date of arrival reported with the original release data.

    Updates are permitted for entries containing a paperless master in-bond number (V number).  Updates are not permitted if the entry contains a standard 9-position IT number or an AWB number is used as an IT number.

    The estimated date of arrival can only be replaced if the carrier code or FIRMS code and the port of unlading represent a Customs Automated Manifest combination. The new estimated date of arrival cannot be greater than 60 days in the future or 30 days in the past.

    To do an update:

    1. Make the necessary corrections on the Log Edit and/or B/L and IT data screens.
    2. Go to the ABI Query Menu.
    3. Select Option 4 to open B/L Processing Results
    4. Locate the file number in the first or second table, depending upon what needs to be updated.
    5. Press F4, then edit the data in the lower table.
    6. Press F9 to prepare the data for transmission.
    7. Use the UPLOAD ALL OTHER option prior to connecting to USCS.

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  23. Input value and quantities when an item has multiple HTS numbers?

    Insert the value for a line item in the corresponding HTS value field except:

    1. Chapter 98 entries: The value of the U.S. portion is shown on the chapter 98 number line, and the foreign portion is shown on the chapter 1-97 number line.

      On the worksheet, enter the chapter 98 HTS number with the U.S. value and an "I" in the I/O field. Enter the chapter 1-97 number as a secondary number with the foreign value and quantities.

    2. Watch/Clock entries: Multiple tariff numbers comprise one line item. A separate HTS number for each component with its associated value, quantity, and duty should be entered.

      On the Worksheet, enter the movement as the first HTS number. Enter all the additional numbers as Secondary Numbers. Each line should have its own quantity and value information and an "I" in the I/O field.

    3. Watch/Clock repair and assembly entries: The chapter 98 HTS number is repeated for each chapter 91 HTS number. Each HTS number should reflect its associated value.

    4. Show required HTS reporting quantities and units of measure on the line with the associated HTS numbers, even in cases where duplication of quantities and units of measure results for a line item, such as with certain chapter 99 HTS numbers.

    5. Generally the duty amount is shown on the same line as the HTS number that governs the duty rate.

      For example, on a chapter 98 entry, HTS number 9802.008065 is shown on the first line of the worksheet(50 record) and the duty field on this line is blank because there is no duty assessed on the U.S. portion. The second line of the worksheet (70 record) shows the HTS number for the article, the entered value of the foreign portion, and the duty amount and quantity units as required by that HTS number.

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  24. Prevent consolidation of HTS numbers on an entry?

    The CTRL field on the worksheet can be used to force separate 7501 lines for the same HTS number on one invoice. Generally, worksheet line items with the same HTS number will be combined unless they have different CTRL numbers. By using more than one CTRL number, matching HTS lines can be combined in any manner desired.

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  25. Delete an invoice from the worksheet?

    Place the cursor in a field in the upper portion of the worksheet and press F5.

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  26. Go directly to a specific invoice on the worksheet?

    You can go directly to a specific invoice by either of the following methods:

    • Go to the worksheet screen.
    • Clear the display with F1.
    • Type in both the file number and the invoice number desired
      OR
      Place the cursor in the file number or invoice number field and press F5 to select from the list.

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  27. Indicate multiple ports of lading?

    If there are multiple ports of lading the individual ports can be entered on the 2nd screen of the 7501 data (same screen as is used to enter VISA data). This is where the port code is obtained to transmit to USCS so if the port code was changed on the Log Screen, the file must be recalced on the 7501 screen edited to fix the upload.

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  28. Suppress MPF on a NAFTA entry?

    The procedures for suppressing MPF rates on NAFTA entries are as follows:

    1. Dutiable merchandise:

      Enter CA or MX, as appropriate, in the SPI field on the worksheet.

      Calculate and upload the entry as usual.

    2. Unconditionally free merchandise:

      7501

      f8 then spi ca/mx/il

      f8 manually delete fee

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  29. What gets uploaded in "UPLOAD ALL OTHERS"?

    1. MID data
    2. ADD/CVD queries
    3. Bond queries
    4. HTS update requests
    5. Bill of lading updates
    6. CF5106 updates
    7. Quota/Visa queries

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  30. How do I handle 98xx Numbers on CBTPA, AGOA, etc?

    On the 7501 Master Data Screen, expand the 98xx number (F8). Remove the Value from the 98xx number. This is the opposite of what is done with the 99xx (additional duty numbers).

    If Duty and/or MPF were calculated and need to be deleted:

    Expand to the Duty Comp Screen (F8 a second time).
    Use F8 to delete the appropriate line.

    NOTE: If the duty was deleted, a "Free" duty line must be inserted by entering 0 (Case) 000 (type) in the left hand Case/Type/Duty box. Press F9 to expand and enter to save the data.

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