Revamping the Customs Form: Smoother Entries or Same Old Questions?

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: 2026-08969 — Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Initiation of 5-Year Status Reviews for 78 Species in Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and California

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is kicking off 5-year checkups for 78 plants and animals in Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and California to see how they're doing. They want your latest info by July 6, 2026, to help decide if these species need more protection or changes. This review helps keep endangered species safe and guides future conservation efforts.

Next: 2026-08971 — Agency Information Collection Activity under OMB Review: Request for Casket/Urn Allowance

The Department of Veterans Affairs is updating the form used to request money for caskets or urns for veterans who don’t have family or enough funds for burial. This affects veterans’ families or representatives who need to apply for this allowance. You’ve got until June 5, 2026, to share your thoughts, and the process should only take about 10 minutes per person.