Importing into the United States requires various forms of identification and compliance with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. If an individual or business does not have a U.S. Employer Identification Number (EIN), they may still engage in international trade by applying for a CBP assigned number. This number functions as a unique identifier for non-resident importers or individuals without an EIN, allowing them to complete required customs forms and filings. Understanding how to obtain, use, and maintain a CBP assigned number is essential for seamless importing and avoiding unnecessary delays.
What Is a CBP Assigned Number?
A CBP assigned number is a unique identifier issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to entities that do not have a federal EIN or Social Security Number (SSN). This number allows these entities to comply with electronic import filing systems like the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) and complete customs documentation, including the Importer Security Filing (ISF) and entry summaries.
Typically, foreign businesses or individuals needing to import into the United States will use this number in place of a U.S.-issued tax ID. It’s critical for anyone regularly importing goods but lacking a U.S. presence.
Who Needs One?
There are two main groups who generally require a CBP assigned number:
- Non-resident importers: Businesses based outside the U.S. that want to ship goods into the country.
- Individuals without an SSN or EIN: These may include tourists or private collectors bringing in personal items on a temporary or occasional basis.
Even companies that plan to import only once may need this number if they lack a tax ID. Without it, shipments can be delayed or even rejected due to incomplete documentation.
How to Apply for a CBP Assigned Number
The process to apply for a CBP assigned number is fairly straightforward:
- Complete CBP Form 5106: This form, titled “Create/Update Importer Identity Form,” collects essential information about the applicant, including contact details, business nature, and shipment volume.
- Submit the Form: You can send the completed form to CBP through a customs broker or electronically through the ACE portal, depending on your setup.
- Wait for Confirmation: Once approved, you’ll be issued a unique importer ID number that begins with the letter “Y”, followed by your identification digits.
This number will then be used in all CBP filings that require importer identification.
Using the Number in Practice
Once issued, your CBP assigned number is used just like an EIN for customs purposes. Common uses include:
- Filing ISF (Importer Security Filing) documents
- Completing entry summaries
- Coordinating with customs brokers
- Communicating with CBP and other trade-related agencies
Ensure the number is used consistently in all documentation to avoid mismatches or shipment holds.
Keeping the Number Active
Although the number does not expire, it may be deactivated if unused for an extended period or if your contact information becomes outdated. Importers should periodically review their status and update their CBP Form 5106 as needed. An inactive number can be reactivated through a simple update request.
Conclusion
A CBP assigned number opens the door for non-U.S. entities and individuals to legally and efficiently engage in U.S. trade. By understanding who needs one, how to apply, and how to use it correctly, importers can streamline operations and avoid regulatory headaches. As global trade continues to expand, this small but powerful identifier ensures access to the U.S. market remains within reach.