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Ocean Freight

Cost-effective, scalable, and fully compliant ocean freight solutions for large-volume, heavy, and international shipments. As a bonded carrier, we transport ocean cargo in-bond under CBP supervision.

๐Ÿšข In-Bond Ocean Cargo
๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost-Effective Shipping
๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ 19 CFR Part 18 Compliant


Container ship at port with cargo containers

๐Ÿšข What Is Bonded Ocean Freight?

Ocean freight is the most cost-effective mode for large-volume, heavy, or non-urgent international shipments. As a CBP-authorized bonded carrier, United Bonded Warehouse transports ocean cargo in-bond โ€” allowing goods to move through U.S. ports under CBP supervision without paying duties until formal entry or export.

Under 19 CFR Part 18 (Transportation in Bond and Merchandise in Transit), in-bond ocean shipments are governed by specific requirements and procedures for the transportation of merchandise without immediate duty payment.

๐Ÿ”‘ The Key Point: Bonded ocean freight allows you to defer duty payments until your goods are ready for distribution โ€” improving cash flow and reducing upfront costs for large-volume shipments.

๐Ÿ“‹ How Bonded Ocean Freight Works

Our bonded ocean freight process is designed to be transparent, efficient, and fully compliant with CBP regulations. Here’s how it works:

ISF Filing (10+2):The Importer Security Filing must be submitted to CBP at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port.

In-Bond Application:

An in-bond application consisting of a transportation entry and manifest is transmitted to CBP via a CBP-approved EDI system.

Vessel Transport:

Goods are transported by a bonded carrier by ship to the destination port. The carrier is bonded under 19 USC ยง 1551.

CBP Supervision:

Cargo moves under CBP supervision with proper documentation. Electronic in-bond applications are required for ocean shipments.

Warehousing or Delivery:

Goods can be stored in a bonded warehouse for up to five years without paying duties, or delivered directly to the consignee.

โš–๏ธ Key Regulations Governing Ocean Freight

As a bonded carrier, we operate under a comprehensive regulatory framework. Here are the key regulations that govern our ocean freight services:

Regulation Description
19 USC ยง 1551 Bonding of carriers โ€” authorizes common carriers (railroad, steamship, or other transportation lines) to transport bonded merchandise.
19 CFR Part 18 Transportation in Bond and Merchandise in Transit โ€” sets forth requirements and procedures for in-bond transportation.
19 CFR ยง 18.1 In-bond application and entry โ€” requires transportation entry and manifest via CBP-approved EDI system.
CBP Form 7512 Transportation Entry and Manifest of Goods Subject to CBP Inspection and Permit โ€” the primary in-bond document.
ISF (10+2) Importer Security Filing โ€” must be submitted at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded.
19 CFR ยง 18.8 Liability for not meeting in-bond requirements โ€” liquidated damages and payment of duties, taxes, fees, and charges.
๐Ÿ“Œ Carrier Responsibility: “The carrier’s bond represents an obligation of the carrier to provide proper delivery of the merchandise. Failure to handle and safeguard in-bond documents contributes to improper delivery and ultimately results in claims being assessed against the carrier.”

โœ… Benefits of Bonded Ocean Freight

Choosing bonded ocean freight with United Bonded Warehouse gives you a competitive edge:

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost-EffectiveLower cost per unit for large-volume, heavy, and bulk shipments.

๐Ÿ“‹ Duty DeferralDelay customs payments until goods are sold or distributed.

๐Ÿข Flexible StorageUp to 5 years in bonded warehouse โ€” duty-free storage.

๐ŸŒ Global ConnectivityAccess to major international shipping lanes and ports.

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ CBP SupervisionFull regulatory compliance with CBP oversight and documentation.

๐Ÿ”„ Scalable CapacityIdeal for large-volume, heavy, or bulk shipments of any size.

๐Ÿ“Š In-Bond Ocean Freight vs. Standard Ocean Freight

Understanding the difference between in-bond and standard ocean freight is essential for making informed shipping decisions:

Feature Standard Ocean Freight In-Bond Ocean Freight
Duty Payment Paid at arrival Deferred until final entry
CBP Supervision Limited Full CBP oversight
Customs Clearance At arrival port At destination port
Warehousing Options Standard warehouse Bonded warehouse (duty-free storage up to 5 years)
Documentation Bill of lading only CBP Form 7512 + Bill of lading
Flexibility Fixed routing Can be diverted to any CBP port
โœ… Why Choose In-Bond: In-bond ocean freight gives you greater flexibility, improved cash flow, and full CBP compliance โ€” making it the ideal choice for large-volume, international, or regulated shipments.

๐Ÿ“„ 6. Documentation Requirements

Proper documentation is critical for bonded ocean freight. Here’s what you need:

  • ๐Ÿ“‹ CBP Form 7512: Transportation Entry and Manifest of Goods Subject to CBP Inspection and Permit โ€” the primary in-bond document.[reference:14]
  • ๐Ÿ“„ Bill of Lading (BOL): A contract between the shipper and carrier detailing the goods being transported.
  • ๐Ÿ“Š ISF (10+2) Filing: Importer Security Filing submitted at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded.[reference:15]
  • ๐Ÿ“ Commercial Invoice: Detailed description of goods, value, and origin.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Packing List: Itemized list of contents with weights and dimensions.
  • ๐Ÿ”’ ACE In-Bond Module: All electronic in-bond entries must be updated in the ACE In-Bond Module within required timeframes.[reference:16]

๐ŸŽฏ When to Choose Ocean Freight

Ocean freight is the right choice for:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Large-Volume Shipments: Full container loads (FCL) and less-than-container loads (LCL).
  • โš–๏ธ Heavy or Bulky Goods: Machinery, equipment, vehicles, and industrial materials.
  • ๐ŸŒ International Trade: Import and export shipments between continents.
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost-Sensitive Shipments: When lower cost per unit is a priority.
  • ๐Ÿข Raw Materials & Commodities: Agricultural products, minerals, and bulk materials.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Supply Chain Optimization: When inventory management and duty deferral are important.
๐Ÿšจ If Your Shipment Is Flagged: If your ocean freight shipment has been flagged after routine scanning, a bonded carrier is required to secure the package and ensure compliance with federal regulations. Learn more about our Refundable Bond Insurance โ†’

Ready to Ship by Ocean?

Contact us today for cost-effective, scalable, and compliant ocean freight solutions. Your shipment deserves the best protection.

๐Ÿ“ง Get a Quote

๐Ÿ“ž Or call us: (347) 465-7645 โ€ข ๐Ÿšข CBP Bonded Ocean Carrier

Ocean Freight

Cost-effective, scalable, and fully compliant ocean freight solutions for large-volume, heavy, and international shipments. As a bonded carrier, we transport ocean cargo in-bond under CBP supervision.

๐Ÿšข In-Bond Ocean Cargo
๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost-Effective Shipping
๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ 19 CFR Part 18 Compliant


Container ship at port with cargo containers

๐Ÿšข What Is Bonded Ocean Freight?

Ocean freight is the most cost-effective mode for large-volume, heavy, or non-urgent international shipments. As a CBP-authorized bonded carrier, United Bonded Warehouse transports ocean cargo in-bond โ€” allowing goods to move through U.S. ports under CBP supervision without paying duties until formal entry or export.

Under 19 CFR Part 18 (Transportation in Bond and Merchandise in Transit), in-bond ocean shipments are governed by specific requirements and procedures for the transportation of merchandise without immediate duty payment.

๐Ÿ”‘ The Key Point: Bonded ocean freight allows you to defer duty payments until your goods are ready for distribution โ€” improving cash flow and reducing upfront costs for large-volume shipments.

๐Ÿ“‹ How Bonded Ocean Freight Works

Our bonded ocean freight process is designed to be transparent, efficient, and fully compliant with CBP regulations. Here’s how it works:

ISF Filing (10+2):The Importer Security Filing must be submitted to CBP at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port.

In-Bond Application:

An in-bond application consisting of a transportation entry and manifest is transmitted to CBP via a CBP-approved EDI system.

Vessel Transport:

Goods are transported by a bonded carrier by ship to the destination port. The carrier is bonded under 19 USC ยง 1551.

CBP Supervision:

Cargo moves under CBP supervision with proper documentation. Electronic in-bond applications are required for ocean shipments.

Warehousing or Delivery:

Goods can be stored in a bonded warehouse for up to five years without paying duties, or delivered directly to the consignee.

โš–๏ธ Key Regulations Governing Ocean Freight

As a bonded carrier, we operate under a comprehensive regulatory framework. Here are the key regulations that govern our ocean freight services:

Regulation Description
19 USC ยง 1551 Bonding of carriers โ€” authorizes common carriers (railroad, steamship, or other transportation lines) to transport bonded merchandise.
19 CFR Part 18 Transportation in Bond and Merchandise in Transit โ€” sets forth requirements and procedures for in-bond transportation.
19 CFR ยง 18.1 In-bond application and entry โ€” requires transportation entry and manifest via CBP-approved EDI system.
CBP Form 7512 Transportation Entry and Manifest of Goods Subject to CBP Inspection and Permit โ€” the primary in-bond document.
ISF (10+2) Importer Security Filing โ€” must be submitted at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded.
19 CFR ยง 18.8 Liability for not meeting in-bond requirements โ€” liquidated damages and payment of duties, taxes, fees, and charges.
๐Ÿ“Œ Carrier Responsibility: “The carrier’s bond represents an obligation of the carrier to provide proper delivery of the merchandise. Failure to handle and safeguard in-bond documents contributes to improper delivery and ultimately results in claims being assessed against the carrier.”

โœ… Benefits of Bonded Ocean Freight

Choosing bonded ocean freight with United Bonded Warehouse gives you a competitive edge:

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost-EffectiveLower cost per unit for large-volume, heavy, and bulk shipments.

๐Ÿ“‹ Duty DeferralDelay customs payments until goods are sold or distributed.

๐Ÿข Flexible StorageUp to 5 years in bonded warehouse โ€” duty-free storage.

๐ŸŒ Global ConnectivityAccess to major international shipping lanes and ports.

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ CBP SupervisionFull regulatory compliance with CBP oversight and documentation.

๐Ÿ”„ Scalable CapacityIdeal for large-volume, heavy, or bulk shipments of any size.

๐Ÿ“Š In-Bond Ocean Freight vs. Standard Ocean Freight

Understanding the difference between in-bond and standard ocean freight is essential for making informed shipping decisions:

Feature Standard Ocean Freight In-Bond Ocean Freight
Duty Payment Paid at arrival Deferred until final entry
CBP Supervision Limited Full CBP oversight
Customs Clearance At arrival port At destination port
Warehousing Options Standard warehouse Bonded warehouse (duty-free storage up to 5 years)
Documentation Bill of lading only CBP Form 7512 + Bill of lading
Flexibility Fixed routing Can be diverted to any CBP port
โœ… Why Choose In-Bond: In-bond ocean freight gives you greater flexibility, improved cash flow, and full CBP compliance โ€” making it the ideal choice for large-volume, international, or regulated shipments.

๐Ÿ“„ 6. Documentation Requirements

Proper documentation is critical for bonded ocean freight. Here’s what you need:

  • ๐Ÿ“‹ CBP Form 7512: Transportation Entry and Manifest of Goods Subject to CBP Inspection and Permit โ€” the primary in-bond document.[reference:14]
  • ๐Ÿ“„ Bill of Lading (BOL): A contract between the shipper and carrier detailing the goods being transported.
  • ๐Ÿ“Š ISF (10+2) Filing: Importer Security Filing submitted at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded.[reference:15]
  • ๐Ÿ“ Commercial Invoice: Detailed description of goods, value, and origin.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Packing List: Itemized list of contents with weights and dimensions.
  • ๐Ÿ”’ ACE In-Bond Module: All electronic in-bond entries must be updated in the ACE In-Bond Module within required timeframes.[reference:16]

๐ŸŽฏ When to Choose Ocean Freight

Ocean freight is the right choice for:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Large-Volume Shipments: Full container loads (FCL) and less-than-container loads (LCL).
  • โš–๏ธ Heavy or Bulky Goods: Machinery, equipment, vehicles, and industrial materials.
  • ๐ŸŒ International Trade: Import and export shipments between continents.
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost-Sensitive Shipments: When lower cost per unit is a priority.
  • ๐Ÿข Raw Materials & Commodities: Agricultural products, minerals, and bulk materials.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Supply Chain Optimization: When inventory management and duty deferral are important.
๐Ÿšจ If Your Shipment Is Flagged: If your ocean freight shipment has been flagged after routine scanning, a bonded carrier is required to secure the package and ensure compliance with federal regulations. Learn more about our Refundable Bond Insurance โ†’

Ready to Ship by Ocean?

Contact us today for cost-effective, scalable, and compliant ocean freight solutions. Your shipment deserves the best protection.

๐Ÿ“ง Get a Quote

๐Ÿ“ž Or call us: (347) 465-7645 โ€ข ๐Ÿšข CBP Bonded Ocean Carrier