The standard package submitted to CBP consists of the following documents:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Air Waybill or Ocean Bill of Lading
• CBP 3461 Immediate Release:  The CBP 3461 - Immediate Release is the form used to obtain the proper release from Customs and Border Protection. The information contained on this form is transmitted electronically via ABI to CBP's database for review. The CBP 3461 identifies the importer, type of foreign product, location of the shipment, classification, country of origin, and surety bond. CBP uses this information to determine the type of examination or document review necessary in order to release the merchandise. Based on the review performed by CBP, they may release or examine the cargo. A release means that the merchandise is no longer in CBP custody and can be delivered to the importer or consignee
• CBP 7501 Entry Summary :The entry summary document provides information that enables CBP to ascertain the proper classification, value, and duty obligation for the imported merchandise. Unless required at the time of release, this document is presented to CBP with the duties due within 10 business days of the initial release of the merchandise. The entry summary contains over 40 fields of information. Although each field is important, the key fields for CBP purposes are the tariff number, value, origin, and total duties paid. In automated environments, the entry summary information is transmitted to CBP via ABI. After the data is analyzed by the CBP database, data is transmitted back to the broker indicating whether the entry summary documents must be physically submitted to CBP. Even if the documents are not required to be submitted, the duties must still be tendered to CBP.

There are nearly 100 forms listed on the CBP website; however, only a few of these forms are used by importers, brokers, and carriers on a daily basis. This section of the course covers the forms that are used most frequently. Forms used by CBP are numbered and preceded by "CBP." For example, form identifier for the Entry Summary is CBP Form 7501. For a list of forms and links to each, click here: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/toolbox/forms