Informal Entry
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🔖 This article is part of the Customs Glossary Guide |
Informal Entry Explained (Type 11)
A simplified customs entry process for commercial shipments valued under $2,500 and personal importations.
What is an Informal Entry?
An Informal Entry is a simplified import procedure allowed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for shipments that are low enough in value that they do not require a Surety Bond or the rigorous documentation of a "Formal" entry.
While Formal Entries (Type 01) are liquidations that can stay open for months, an Informal Entry (Type 11) is generally considered "liquidated" (finalized) at the time of release and duty payment.
The $2,500 Threshold
The general rule under 19 CFR 143.21 is that commercial shipments valued at $2,500 or less may be entered informally. If the value exceeds this limit, a Formal Entry is mandatory.
Informal vs. Section 321 vs. Formal
It is crucial not to confuse "Informal Entry" with "De Minimis" (Section 321). They are distinct categories with different duty implications.
| Entry Type | Value Limit | Duties? | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section 321 (Type 86) |
$800 or less | Duty Free | The "De Minimis" exemption. Goods enter free of duty and tax. Often filed by the carrier (or broker as Type 86). |
| Informal Entry (Type 11) |
$800 - $2,500 | Dutiable | Duties must be paid, but no Customs Bond is required. Filed by a broker or the importer. |
| Formal Entry (Type 01) |
Over $2,500 | Dutiable | Requires a Surety Bond (Form 301) and extensive documentation. This is the standard for most commercial freight. |
Exceptions to the Rule:
Some goods cannot use informal entry even if they are under $2,500. This includes "restricted merchandise" like certain textiles, footwear, and goods subject to quotas or anti-dumping duties. These always require a Formal Entry.
Processing in BorderConnect
For the carrier, an Informal Entry usually looks very similar to a standard formal shipment, but the setup depends on who is filing the entry.
Scenario A: Broker Filed (Most Common)
If a Customs Broker is involved, they will file the Type 11 entry electronically via ABI.
1. Carrier Action: Create a standard PAPS shipment in BorderConnect. 2. Manifest Data: Enter the Shipper, Consignee, and Value/Commodity as usual. 3. The Link: Provide the PAPS number (SCAC + Pro) to the broker. 4. Release: When the broker files the Type 11, CBP matches it to your PAPS and sends the release message.
Scenario B: Importer Filed (Paperwork at Booth)
Sometimes, a small business owner or individual will meet the truck at the border to file the entry themselves using a hardcopy CBP Form 7501.
1. Carrier Action: Create a PAPS shipment in BorderConnect. 2. Process: The driver presents the PAPS barcode at the booth. 3. Clearance: The importer presents their completed Form 7501 and pays the duties (cash/check) directly to the Cashier at the port. 4. Result: The officer manually posts the release against the PAPS number.
Personal Shipments
Informal entries are also the standard mechanism for moving Personal Effects or Household Goods (Type 32) that exceed the $800 duty-free exemption.
If a carrier is moving a household move:
- The shipment is typically filed in BorderConnect as a PAPS (if a broker is clearing it) or Section 321 (if it qualifies as low value/unaccompanied baggage).
- Customs Form 3299 (Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles) is often required in addition to the manifest.