With international shipping and trade rules changing every day and who knows what will come when, there’s been a lot of confusion and trepidation concerning shipping anything to or from the United States. Collectible grading services have been impacted and are doing their best to keep users of their services updated as far as best practices. Certified Collectibles Group (CCG) has sent an email today with numerous suggestions as to how to handle shipments from countries outside of the United States for individuals that want to use their services.

Check out their update below:

The Certified Collectibles Group (CCG) serves the vibrant collectibles market worldwide through a network of offices and Official Submission Centers. Following the imposition of new or increased tariffs on imports to the United States, many customers have asked about any impact to their submissions to CCG. Fortunately, international submissions to CCG should not incur tariffs if the proper procedures are followed.

CCG’s recommendation for international (non-US) submissions

CCG strongly recommends that all submissions from customers located outside of the US be made to one of CCG’s international locations:

All of CCG’s international offices provide a “white glove” service that includes shipping, insurance, customs clearance (where applicable) and all associated costs. No tariffs should apply to any submissions made to one of CCG’s international offices.

• London, United Kingdom
• Munich, Germany
• Hong Kong, China
• Shanghai, China (Note: This option is recommended only for customers located in Mainland China. All submissions in Mainland China must be made through an eligible Official Submission Center or Authorized Dealer.)
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates (coming soon!)

Go here to see contact information for CCG’s international offices.

A secondary option (not recommended)

While not recommended, international submitters with an ability to work with a customs broker may submit directly to CCG in the US by using the Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB) process, which is not subject to tariffs if done properly. Any international submission made directly to CCG in the US must be made using a TIB and the submitter must identify themself as the “importer of record.” The submitter will also be responsible for any tariffs, duties or fees associated with their shipment to/from CCG in the US.

Please note: Any international submitter to CCG in the US must self-designate as the “importer of record.” Any packages designating CCG as the “importer of record” will be rejected by CCG, may be held by US customs and may incur substantial fees.

International packages must go back to the sender’s address

CCG will not accept any address changes for international shipments. All return packages must go back to the address where they were shipped from in order to avoid any customs issues. If a submission is made in the US (at a trade show, for example) and the submitter requests that the submission be shipped internationally once completed, the customer will be responsible for all shipping costs, including any tariffs, duties or fees for the return shipment.

Disclaimer: CCG is not a customs broker or a law firm. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.