When you’re importing goods into the United States, every percentage point on tariffs and duties can directly impact your bottom line. For many businesses, navigating these complex regulations feels overwhelming—but that’s where an experienced customs broker like Eduardo A. Arecco CHB can help.
At our firm, we go beyond simple customs clearance. One of the most powerful strategies we employ to help our clients save money is researching duty exclusions. Understanding these opportunities can mean the difference between paying hefty fees and keeping more of your profits where they belong—inside your business.
What Are Duty Exclusions?
Duty exclusions are specific exemptions from standard U.S. tariffs. These exclusions often arise in response to trade policies, international negotiations, or temporary relief programs set by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other federal agencies.
For example:
- Certain products may qualify for temporary tariff relief due to supply chain shortages.
- Some industries—like food, medical equipment, or critical raw materials—may receive exclusions to encourage imports.
- Exclusions can apply based on product classification, country of origin, or even intended use.
The challenge? These exclusions are highly specific, constantly changing, and difficult to track without deep knowledge of customs regulations.
How Eduardo A. Arecco CHB Helps
For more than 20 years, our founder Tony Arecco has been guiding companies through the maze of international shipping and customs law. With a licensed team and direct access to CBP across the street from our Tampa office, we stay on top of every possible opportunity to reduce your duty costs.
Here’s how we do it:
- Thorough Product Classification
Correctly classifying your goods under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) is the first step. Misclassification is a common reason companies miss out on exclusions—or worse, pay fines. - Exclusion Research & Monitoring
Our team continuously monitors CBP rulings, trade notices, and federal updates to identify applicable exclusions. If your product qualifies, we’ll make sure you benefit. - Agency Coordination
We work with multiple regulatory bodies—FDA, USDA, EPA, Fish & Wildlife Services, and more—to ensure every angle is covered. Many exclusions require agency-specific approvals or paperwork, and we handle that process end-to-end. - Accurate Paperwork & Compliance
Exclusions only save you money if they’re filed correctly. Our ISO-aligned procedures and use of the latest Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) software ensure your documentation is precise, timely, and accepted by CBP. - Ongoing Savings Strategy
Importing is rarely a one-time process. We help clients build long-term duty management strategies, so you’re not just saving today—you’re staying competitive for the future.
Why It Matters
For companies bringing in high volumes of goods—whether it’s automobiles, seafood, textiles, or industrial equipment—tariffs can add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Even a single exclusion ruling could slash those costs dramatically.
Think of it this way:
- Without exclusions → A $500,000 import shipment could carry $50,000 in duties.
- With exclusions → That same shipment may only cost $10,000—or even be exempt entirely.
That’s real money that can be reinvested into growth, staffing, or improved supply chains.
Your Partner in Cost Savings
At Eduardo A. Arecco CHB, we don’t just see ourselves as customs brokers—we’re partners in your international trade success. Our role is to minimize risks, cut unnecessary costs, and ensure you move goods across borders with speed and confidence.
If you’re ready to explore how duty exclusions might apply to your business, reach out to us today. Let’s uncover opportunities that keep more money in your business’s pocket while keeping you fully compliant with U.S. customs regulations.
📍 Visit us in Tampa, FL – right across from U.S. Customs
📞 Call us at [(813) 443-8252]
💻 Learn more at https://acht.us/
👉 Pro Tip for Importers: Don’t assume your current duty rate is set in stone. Exclusions change frequently, and what wasn’t available last year may be active now. Working with a proactive customs brokerage firm ensures you never leave savings on the table.