A few opportunities are highlighted, although any state you wish to do business in is likely to welcome UK visitors.
UK-US cultural ties are strong, language, democratic and commercial approaches to the world are shared, although there is a size difference.
The states mentioned in the video have roughly the same population as England, yet numerically represent 10% of US territory. They are part of a leading trading nation, where the use of ATA carnets is well established.
Carnet Categories In The USA
The USA accepts ATA carnets for professional equipment, commercial samples and items for exhibitions, or business fairs. Classifying goods for fairs may require a little care but almost any item can go on a carnet.
US customs websites suggest a range they are happy to accept. From tools, to photographic equipment, musical instruments, yachts, racehorses, machinery for testing, or items you are taking to a trade show.
Their main stipulation is that the goods must not be for sale, or on approval where this might lead to a sale. This is normal for carnet items.
Items Excluded From Carnets
US ATA carnet rules again follow the norm. Consumable, or disposable goods are not accepted, neither are food, agricultural products, or items sent for repair.
Other points on when not to use ATA carnets are that postal items are not allowed and the timeframe can matter. Carnets to the US are normally valid for 12 months and getting an extension can be awkward.
Each country has variations and those in the US are not unusual. Customs officers are helpful and knowledgeable, just bear in mind that abusing the terms of carnets can bring a penalty amounting to 110% percent of import duties and taxes.
This is not an issue we have encountered in their well managed system but would say that accuracy matters for an ATA carnet to the USA. The same applies to goods in transit going through the USA, which they do allow.
Is There An Alternative?
The US has a system for temporary importation bonds (TIBs) but use cases for this are fairly rare. The United States Council for International Business makes the point that an ATA carnet is easier and less costly than a temporary import bond.
A TIB would require additional paperwork, along with physically clearing this at a cargo entry office, or using a customs broker. There is also a requirement to secure a financial bond from a licenced surety.
An ATA carnet is there to set aside additional payments and speed up customs clearance, which the vast majority of business travellers prefer.
ATA Carnets In Practice
A time is coming where ATA carnets will be a virtual document but for now, caring for the paper version makes sense. Loss replacement is allowed in the US and Dynamic Dox staff will help but better to just enjoy the journey.
The USA is a great place to do business and a country of amazing diversity, from deserts, to snow covered mountains. Our trade relationship is strong, hospitality in terms of service, or at a personal level tends to be first rate.
Using an ATA carnet for a USA trip adds to the pleasure, by eliminating hassle, or delay. You can focus on the reasons for your journey.
Whether this is purely for business reasons, or mixed with pleasure, we wish you a successful trip. If our “support team” can offer advice, or help to prepare an ATA carnet, please get in touch at any time.