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Learn About / ATA Carnet – Who, What & When?

What are the importer’s obligations?

A carnet holder is obligated to present the goods and carnet to Customs to prove exportation. Failure to prove exportation on either a Temporary In Bond (TIB) or a carnet subjects the importer to liquidated damages equal to 110 percent of the duty and import tax. Goods imported under either a TIB or a carnet may not be offered for sale.

Who issues ATA Carnets?

Domestic associations in participating countries that are members of the International Bureau of Chambers of Commerce issue carnets to residents to be used abroad. The United States Council for International Business http://www.uscib.org (USCIB) has been designated by the U.S. Customs Service as the United States issuing and guaranteeing organization. A fee is charged by the Council for its service. The guaranteeing organization is held liable for the payment of liquidated damages if the carnet holder, such as the importer, fails to comply with Customs regulations.

How long is an ATA Carnet valid for?

An ATA carnet is valid for one year from the date of its issuance. Merchandise listed on an ATA carnet can be imported to and exported from any of the member countries as many times as needed during the one-year life of the carnet.

What goods may be entered under an ATA Carnet?

Commercial samples, professional equipment and advertising material can be imported into the United States by a
nonresident. Other countries permit the use of a carnet to import the above materials and other categories of goods such as:

• Ordinary goods, such as computers, tools, cameras and video equipment, industrial machinery, automobiles, gems and jewelry, and wearing apparel.

• Extraordinary items, for example, Van Gogh’s self-portrait, circus animals, jets, band instruments, satellites, human skulls, and the New York Philharmonic’s equipment.