What happens if US Customs seizes your package?

Shipping packages may be seized at the “port” if they have been illegally transported (not complying with all the rules and regulations) or their custom duties are paid incorrectly. In such cases, importers of banned or illegal goods may be arrested and imprisoned from being involved in shipping such items.

What is a customs seizure?

Property may be seized, if available, by any Customs officer who has reasonable cause to believe that any law or regulation enforced by Customs and Border Protection or Immigration and Customs Enforcement has been violated, by reason of which the property has become subject to seizure or forfeiture.

Can customs confiscated goods?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) is authorized to seize goods or currency for violations of various customs laws and regulations. If CBP finds a customs violation, they will seize the subject goods and transfer them to a bonded warehouse.

How long does it take to get a customs seizure notice?

The Seizure Notice will identify what and where the cargo was seized, as well as the legal basis for the seizure. See 19 CFR 162.31 (b). Once a Seizure Notice is received, the “violator” is provided 30 days to file a Petition with Customs.

Who is responsible for the seizure of property?

(a) Seizures by Customs officers. Property may be seized, if available, by any Customs officer who has reasonable cause to believe that any law or regulation enforced by Customs and Border Protection or Immigration and Customs Enforcement has been violated, by reason of which the property has become subject to seizure or forfeiture.

When to give a receipt for a seizure?

A receipt for seized property shall be given at the time of seizure to the person from whom the property is seized. (b) Seizure by persons other than Customs officers.

What does legal notice of seizure and intent to forfeit mean?

On the other hand, your lawyer may be able to show that the Government does not have the evidence to prove that the money or property was obtained or used for any illegal purpose. This section of the law deals primarily with “controlled substances” or drugs. The Notice of Seizure goes on to expand its web or control through 19 C.F.R. 162.45.

When do customs send a notice of seizure?

Customs will send written notice of seizure as provided in this section to all known interested parties as soon as practicable. Except as provided in paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) of this section, in no case may notice be sent more than 60 calendar days after the date of seizure.

What does the CFR say about notice of seizure?

19 CFR § 162.92 – Notice of seizure. § 162.92 Notice of seizure. (a) Generally. Customs will send written notice of seizure as provided in this section to all known interested parties as soon as practicable.

When to send notice of seizure or turnover?

If the identity or interest of a party is not determined until after the seizure or turnover, but it is determined before a declaration of forfeiture, notice will be sent to such interested party not later than 60 calendar days after the determination by Customs of the identity of the party or the party ‘s interest. (d) Extensions.

What can I do with a seizure letter?

The remaining parts of the Seizure letter go on to explain that you can make different types of claims to get your property returned. You may file a claim and cost bond of 10% of the APV or appraised property value with the fines, penalties, and forfeitures department and get your claim sent to the District Court immediately.