Duty Drawback Services

We offer a complimentary drawback assessment that presents businesses with a comprehensive analysis of recovery potential based on the type of drawback. This assessment also serves as an opportunity to test collaboration with our operations team. For businesses with existing drawback programs, our assessment acts as a validation, determining if the current program maximizes recovery while minimizing compliance risks.

Our assessment results are delivered through intuitive reporting, which includes custom metrics tailored to address the specific needs of your business. It is entirely optional whether you decide to engage with Alliance’s services following the assessment. We prioritize providing you with valuable insights and recommendations, empowering you to make informed decisions about leveraging our services to optimize your drawback program.

We use proprietary data analytics tools and processes combined with our advanced knowledge of the nuanced drawback regulations to maximize drawback recovery, particularly for more complex high transaction importers. Our strategic analysis determines the ideal path forward with the least amount of regulatory compliance exposure.

Selecting the correct approach requires in-depth analysis of all filing options. In certain instances, the same export could qualify for drawback under multiple statutory provisions, in other instances the legal structure limits our filing options. As an example, limitations on drawback established by the NAFTA (and retained by the USMCA) on exports to Canada and Mexico adds another layer of complexity to the process. We maneuver your program through this nuanced rulemaking to avoid the trip wires that leave potential recovery on the table

We transform complex data sets into visually appealing and intuitive charts, graphs, and interactive dashboards that allow our clients to track key metrics related to drawback program performance.

Whether tracking claim drawback recovery trends, analyzing tariff mitigation by tariff classification number, or comparing duty drawback benefits across business units; we provide key visual insights into program performance. By recognizing key trends, patterns, and correlations, we collaborate with our clients to make data driven decisions that optimize recovery.

Our robust data validation process minimizes errors while mitigating potential compliance risks. This results in smoother operations, enhanced accuracy, and improved efficiency within your drawback program.

Harnessing the power of data analytics, Alliance conducts in-depth risk analysis to identify areas of potential compliance exposure, enabling us to prioritize mitigation efforts while maximizing recovery. As an example, one of the primary points of exposure for any drawback program involves maintaining valid proof exportation (export bill of lading, commercial invoice, and packing list) and providing to CBP upon request.

Alliance will analyze export activity and subdivide into risk buckets based on various factors including certain export terms of sale that reduce the likelihood the US exporter receives the final export bill of lading. We may choose to eliminate certain exports from a drawback claim that carry a higher degree of risk combined with a low level of recovery.

We recognize the significance of coordinating between different departments, such as trade compliance and finance or accounting. We utilize regression analysis as a tool to conduct diverse financial projections, enabling us to forecast potential levels of drawback recovery and provide the results in an intuitive reporting dashboard for our clients. These projections are often utilized for accruals, aiding in accurate financial planning and budgeting. By integrating trade compliance and financial insights, we enhance coordination and ensure a comprehensive approach to maximizing drawback recovery and managing financial expectations.

At Alliance, we constantly evaluate our clients’ businesses to identify new and viable drawback opportunities. Often corporate mergers and acquisitions can result in additional recovery potential. Or maybe a separate business unit changes its supply chain that results in a new stream of duty paid import activity. As business models shift to adapt to market forces, we work closely with our clients to adjust our drawback strategy accordingly.

Once Alliance completes filing drawback on direct import/export activity, we then look to expand the program to include a client’s imports through domestic suppliers or the exports of domestic customers (also known as multiple party drawback). Alliance facilities these transactions by serving a buffer between the importer and exporter to protect the confidentiality of sensitive information needed prepare a drawback submission

Our analysts employ cutting-edge proprietary software and advanced analytics to optimize duty drawback recovery while minimizing compliance risks. We leverage these powerful tools to ensure that our clients can maximize their eligible refunds compliantly.

To streamline the process, we submit drawback claims electronically to Customs, enabling a faster and more efficient submission process. Additionally, for those eligible for the accelerated payment privilege, claimants can anticipate receiving refunds within a timeframe of 30-45 days from the date of filing.

By utilizing our operational support teams and automation capabilities, we have the ability to automate various aspects of the drawback process, including data retrieval, document collection, and data processing. Through this automation, we enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the drawback process, allowing our clients’ stakeholders to focus their valuable resources and time on the core tasks that propel their business forward

To optimize the operational efficiency of our client’s drawback program, Alliance accesses the necessary reporting directly from CBP’s automated commercial environment (ACE). Additionally, we automate the retrieval of data reporting from various sources such as brokers, freight forwarders, or our client’s internal enterprise systems.

These automated processes streamline data collection and reporting, reducing manual efforts and ensuring accurate and timely access to the required information. By utilizing these technologies, we enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our client’s drawback program, allowing for smoother operations and improved outcomes.

Specific drawback provisions necessitate filing drawback claims at the more granular part level number level. The challenge – most import brokers either do not capture part number level detail at the time of entry or do not do so consistently with a high level of accuracy.

Alliance’s data processing solutions allow us to accurately capture millions of import records. This meticulous data collection enables us to meet the stringent regulatory requirements associated with certain types of drawback filings, even in cases where the original data may be incomplete or missing.

Accordingly, we leverage our proprietary robotic process automation techniques to collect support documents on behalf of our clients and store them in our secure cloud storage.

We offer various secure communication channels to facilitate streamlined data and document file transfers for our clients. We provide SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol), a secure web portal, and dedicated email inboxes to ensure efficient and secure exchange of information.

Furthermore, our secure cloud storage is highly robust and meets rigorous security standards. It is SOC I and SOC II certified, as well as ISO certified, ensuring the highest level of data protection. Our cloud storage employs AES 256-bit encryption, HMAC key hashing authentication, and fully complies with HIPAA and GDPR requirements, safeguarding sensitive information.

Navigating the compliant intricacies of the drawback process can be a challenging task. However, at Alliance, we take full ownership of our client’s drawback program’s regulatory compliance requirements. Our dedicated team assumes complete responsibility for ensuring adherence to all relevant regulations, laws, and guidelines. By entrusting us with your drawback program, you can have confidence that we will handle all compliance obligations diligently and efficiently, relieving you of the burden and providing peace of mind.

Alliance will prepare and submit one-time applications to Customs for accelerated payment, waiver of prior notice, and, if relevant, draft a request for a manufacturing ruling. These applications serve to establish a drawback program and facilitate efficient processing with Customs, ensuring compliance and adherence to regulatory requirements.

In order to uphold regulatory compliance and ensure the prompt submission of drawback claims, we will establish thorough standard operating procedures for each drawback program during implementation. This approach guarantees that all necessary steps and protocols are clearly defined and followed.

Moreover, Alliance conducts an evaluation of existing record retention and data systems, as well as drawback procedures, to assess their accuracy and effectiveness. Based on our findings, we provide recommendations on enhancing retention procedures, improving data integrity, and aligning with industry best practices. This holistic assessment helps streamline processes, improve overall efficiency, and maintain a high standard of compliance within your organization.

Alliance nurtures robust partnerships with customs headquarters and the various Centers of Excellence and Expertise (CEEs). In case of a Customs desk review or audit, we actively collaborate with Customs on behalf of our clients, providing comprehensive support and resolution assistance.

Furthermore, Alliance assists with protests, disclosures, and can even petition the International Trade Commission (ITC) for Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) statistical breakouts, when necessary. Our close relationship and collaborative approach with Customs officials enable us to effectively address any compliance-related challenges and provide strategic solutions for our clients.

Alliance operates strictly on a percentage of the duty recovered and varies based upon the recovery potential and administrative resources required to compliantly execute a client’s drawback program. This model incentivizes Alliance to maximize the drawback refunds of each client’s program. The average fee structure starts in the 10% range but can slide higher or lower based upon the variables outlined.

To accurately price your program and provide the most competitive fee structure possible, we first conduct a detailed complimentary assessment (refer to the assessment details below).

We recognize the importance of consistently earning your business, and thus, we do not require a rigid contractual obligation. That’s why our standard drawback service agreement offers the flexibility of cancellation without cause provision. Operating strictly on an “at-will” basis reflects our confidence in delivering the highest level of satisfaction to our clients.