Each month analysts in the Foreign Trade Division contact freight forwarders, customs brokers, exporters and importers to verify the data elements on import and export records filed with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This process involves calling the filers to confirm the accuracy of the reported data. At times there is hesitation on the part of filers to provide this information. In order to ensure the accuracy of the merchandise trade balance, it is important that analysts verify the data and correct any errors in a timely manner.

When analysts call to verify a shipment, they are frequently checking on data elements such as:

1. Value and Quantity

• the currency in U.S. dollars
• the dollar amount does not include cents in the total
• the unit of quantity is reported in kilograms, number, or other measure specified in the import or export commodity classification schedule

2. Shipping Weight

• the weight of the commodity is ALWAYS reported in kilograms
• the weight in pounds has been correctly converted to kilograms (2.2lbs=1kg)

3. Schedule B or Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) number

• the commodity is classified according to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI)