CBP Speeds Up Border Checks for Innocent Boaters Nationwide
Published Date: 9/12/2025
Notice
Summary
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is extending the Declaration Zone test for three more years to make entering the U.S. by boat faster and easier. Travelers will still declare their items, but the test helps separate those with nothing to declare from those with items, speeding up the process. This means less waiting and smoother trips for boat travelers, with no extra costs involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Declaration Zone Test Extended Three Years
CBP is extending the Declaration Zone test for an additional three years. If you enter the United States by boat, the test separates travelers who have nothing to declare from those who have items to declare, which speeds up processing and can, in some cases, replace giving an oral or written declaration. CBP states this will make trips smoother with no extra costs involved.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-10311 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension; International Mail Duty Worksheet (IMDW)
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is asking to keep using the International Mail Duty Worksheet (IMDW), a form that helps track duties on international mail. They want your feedback by June 22, 2026, to make sure the form works well and doesn’t cause extra hassle or costs. This is a routine check to keep things smooth for businesses and mail handlers dealing with international packages.
2026-10251 — Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Export Manifest for Vessel Cargo Test: Renewal of Test
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is renewing a cool test that lets exporters send their ship cargo info electronically at least 24 hours before loading. This test, which started back in 2015, helps speed up and simplify export paperwork. If you’re involved in shipping goods by vessel, you can join anytime during the next two years—no extra fees, just smoother sailing ahead!
2026-09981 — Revised Date for the 2026 Trade and Cargo Security Summit
The 2026 Trade and Cargo Security Summit in Dallas has been moved from April to September 8-10, 2026. This event is for people in international trade and transportation, offering both in-person and online options. Registration costs $328 for in-person and $28 for virtual, with deadlines coming up soon, so don’t miss out!
2026-09871 — Quarterly IRS Interest Rates Used in Calculating Interest on Overdue Accounts and Refunds of Customs Duties
Starting April 1, 2026, the IRS is lowering interest rates on customs duty payments and refunds. If you owe money, you’ll pay 6% interest, whether you’re a business or not. If you’re getting a refund, non-business folks get 6%, but businesses get a slightly lower 5%. This change affects anyone dealing with customs duties and helps keep things fair and clear.
2026-09879 — Fee for Fingerprints Collected by CBP
Starting June 18, 2026, anyone applying for unescorted access to CBP security areas at airports will have to pay a new fee for fingerprint collection. This fee covers the FBI’s fingerprint check and CBP’s processing costs. If you’re submitting a paper application or need new fingerprints because TSA’s are missing or unreadable, this change affects you—and yes, it means a little extra cash out of pocket.
2026-09575 — Extension of Import Restrictions Imposed on Categories of Archaeological and Ethnological Material of Türkiye
The U.S. is extending import restrictions on certain ancient and cultural items from Türkiye until March 24, 2031. This means collectors, museums, and sellers need to keep following the rules to protect Türkiye’s heritage. The new rule kicks in on May 13, 2026, keeping the ban active for another five years without any new fees or costs.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-17687 — Swan Lake North Hydro LLC; Notice of Availability of Environmental Assessment
Swan Lake North Hydro LLC wants to make some changes to their hydro project, and the government checked to see if it would harm the environment. Good news: with the right protections, it won’t cause big problems! People living nearby, local groups, and anyone interested can share their thoughts by October 9, 2025, so don’t miss your chance to speak up.
Next: 2025-17689 — Public Service Company of Colorado; Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Assessment
Public Service Company of Colorado is planning to build a temporary pipeline to divert water around a dam in Georgetown, Colorado, to keep things safe and protect water quality while the dam gets decommissioned. The government will study the environmental impact and expects to finish this review by November 12, 2025. Local communities, landowners, and environmental groups should stay tuned and can share their thoughts during the review process.