Free Tools & Guides
FREIGHT
INTELLIGENCE
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Free tools, calculators, and expert guides. Everything you need to ship smarter.
Free Tools & Guides
Free tools, calculators, and expert guides. Everything you need to ship smarter.
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Find the correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule code for your commodity instantly.
Estimate landed cost including duties, MPF, HMF, and applicable tariff surcharges.
Complete guide to all 11 Incoterms — who pays what, from where to where.
Download CBP forms: 3461, 7501, ISF, AES/SED, and commonly used freight documents.
Carrier-compliant packaging standards by mode — air, ocean, and road freight.
Comprehensive list of prohibited and restricted commodities by carrier and country.
Validate EU Economic Operator Registration numbers for EU-bound shipments.
Direct link to the US International Trade Commission's official HTS database.
Can't find what you need? Talk to a Tri-State expert — free, no obligation.
HTS Code Lookup
The correct HTS code determines your import duty rate, any antidumping charges, and which regulatory agencies review your shipment. Getting it wrong causes delays and fines.
Expert Classification Available
Our licensed CBP brokers can classify your commodity and file binding ruling requests to lock in your duty rate. Contact us →
Enter a commodity description to find the best matching HTS code
Landed Cost Estimator
Estimate your total landed cost before committing to a purchase order. Includes US import duties, MPF, HMF, and applicable Section 301 surcharges.
Need an Exact Calculation?
Our licensed customs brokers provide binding duty calculations, antidumping screening, and total landed cost analysis before you commit to any purchase.
Talk to a Customs BrokerIncoterms 2020
Incoterms define who is responsible for freight costs, insurance, customs, and risk at each stage of the shipment. Choosing the wrong term costs money.
Official Forms & Documents
Tri-State's official client onboarding form. Required for new accounts, credit terms, and first shipment booking.
Download .docx ↗Authorize Tri-State to charge freight costs to your credit card. Required for prepaid accounts and new clients.
Download .docx ↗Entry / Immediate Delivery — used to file for release of cargo from CBP custody before formal entry.
Download from CBP.gov ↗Entry Summary — formal customs entry for imported merchandise. Required for all formal entries over $2,500.
Download from CBP.gov ↗Importer Security Filing data collection template. Required 24 hours before vessel departure. Contact us for e-filing.
Request Template →Standard IATA Air Waybill template. Pre-filled with Tri-State agent codes upon request for your regular lanes.
Request Template →Pro-forma packing list template accepted by all major carriers and customs authorities. Excel format.
Request Template →Compliant commercial invoice template covering CBP, FDA, and USDA requirements with all required data fields.
Request Template →Tri-State's standard Power of Attorney for customs brokerage. Required before we can file entries on your behalf.
Request POA →Validate Economic Operator Registration and Identification numbers for EU-bound shipments.
Validate on EU Commission ↗Lock in your HTS classification and duty rate. Our customs brokers prepare and submit on your behalf.
Ask Our Brokers →Packaging Requirements
Incorrect packaging is the #1 cause of cargo damage claims and carrier surcharges. Follow these standards for all modes.
Each unit cushioned individually. Minimum 2 inches of padding on all six faces. Fragile items: double-box with rigid interior dividers. Electronics: anti-static bags inside foam lining.
New corrugated cartons only. Wall thickness: Minimum ECT-32 for ground, ECT-44 for air. Max carton weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) unless on pallet. No reuse of damaged cartons.
Country of origin on outer carton. Consignee and shipper name + address on all 4 sides. Gross/net weight in both kg and lbs. Piece count (e.g., 1/10, 2/10). HS code on invoice.
ISPM-15 heat-treated wood pallets required for all international shipments. Standard 40"×48" GMA pallet. Max height: 72" including pallet. Shrink wrap 4+ full revolutions. No overhang.
Special Cargo
Hazardous materials, temperature-controlled cargo, oversized/heavy lift, and live animals require additional packaging standards and documentation. Contact our team for guidance →
Prohibited & Restricted Items
Tendering prohibited items results in seizure, forfeiture, criminal liability, and permanent carrier bans. Always verify before booking.
Disclaimer: This list is for general guidance only. Import/export regulations change frequently and vary by country, carrier, and commodity. Always verify current requirements with our customs brokers before shipping. Tri-State Forwarding accepts no liability for shipments containing prohibited or undeclared restricted items.
Still Have Questions?
Our licensed customs brokers and logistics experts answer questions at no charge. No obligation, no pressure.