Returned American Products (CBP Shipment Type)
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🔖 This article is part of the Shipment Release Types Guide |
Returned American Products (CBP Shipment Type)
A guide to duty-free re-entry of U.S. goods using CBP Form 3311 and electronic manifest reporting.
Overview
A Returned American Products shipment is a U.S. shipment type identified by CBP Form 3311. It is a type of Informal Entry that allows for the duty-free release of U.S.-manufactured goods being returned to the United States.
To qualify, the goods must have been rejected or returned by a foreign purchaser for credit, must not have been advanced in value or improved in condition while abroad, and must not have received a customs drawback or tax exemption upon export.
Carrier Responsibility: Carriers are typically not in a position to verify eligibility facts (such as value advancement) and should rely on the importer or customs broker to advise if this shipment type applies.
Supporting Documentation (HTSUS 9801.00.10)
CBP maintains strict documentation requirements for duty-free treatment under HTSUS 9801.00.10 (U.S. and foreign goods returned). While U.S. origin goods have no time limit, foreign origin goods must be returned within 3 years to qualify.
Requirements for Shipments over $2,500
- Declaration by Foreign Shipper: Stating the products were not advanced in value or improved in condition.
- Declaration by Importer/Agent: Knowledge of the facts regarding the duty-free claim.
- Proof of Export: Documentation such as a U.S. export invoice, bill of lading, or Electronic Export Information (EEI) filing.
Marking Threshold ($10,000+)
If U.S. manufactured articles are valued at $10,000 or more and are not clearly marked with the name and address of the U.S. manufacturer, CBP requires additional documentation (e.g., a Manufacturer's Affidavit) to substantiate the claim.
Refund Modernization (February 2026)
Effective February 6, 2026, CBP has transitioned to mandatory electronic refunds via Automated Clearing House (ACH).
- No More Checks: CBP no longer issues paper refund checks for excess duties, fees, or interest.
- ACE Portal: Importers and refund recipients must maintain an active ACE Portal Account and submit U.S. bank account information via the ACH Refund Authorization tool.
- Impact: Refunds that cannot be delivered due to missing banking info will halt interest accrual and could be rejected.
Declaring in ACE eManifest
While Returned American Products are often categorized as exempt from mandatory ACE filing, submitting electronic information is a best practice for faster processing.
Reporting Steps in BorderConnect
- Shipment Type: Select Returned American Products (or "CBP Form 3311").
- Data Elements: Assign a unique Shipment Control Number (SCN) and provide standard Shipper, Consignee, and Commodity details.
- No Entry Number: As an informal entry, no customs broker is typically involved at the booth, and no formal entry number is generated.
- Border Procedure: The driver must present two copies of the completed CBP Form 3311 to the officer.
References