Optimizing Trade Compliance Through Reconciliation (Video)

Blog originally posted on 08/09/2025 12:00 PM

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In the intricate world of global trade, few tools offer importers the relief from complexity that reconciliation does. The concept may seem simple: import goods now and update the details later. But as anyone in compliance knows, the real challenge lies in the execution. This is where Tradewin steps in, offering a reassuring hand in navigating the complexities of reconciliation.

Watch the video below to learn more about reconciliation and how Tradewin assists you through this process.

Understanding Reconciliation

Reconciliation is a voluntary program provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows importers to file entries even when certain specific details, most commonly value or FTA status, are not yet confirmed. Once these details are finalized, importers can update their entries within a specific timeframe. This process helps ensure that goods continue to move efficiently while maintaining compliance, particularly in supply chains where costs and data may frequently change.

Where Things Get Complex

Although the concept is straightforward, the process can be complex. Importers often work with various duty types, including Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duties (AD/CVD), Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ), and MPF minimum and maximum calculations.

Each of these comes with its own rules and expectations from CBP. The reconciliation window ranges from one year to 21 months depending on filing type, requiring consistent tracking and attention to detail. Managing this process effectively requires both technical expertise and a thorough understanding of regulatory requirements. 

For a detailed breakdown of the reconciliation process, check out our Reconciliation Roadmap.

Why Reconciliation Matters

When implemented effectively, reconciliation can minimize the risk of penalties and audits, enhance operational efficiency, and allow internal teams to concentrate on compliance strategy. With Tradewin’s expertise, you may also be able to reduce costs related to penalties and audits. This makes reconciliation both a compliance tool, and a strategic advantage, empowering you to focus on your business’s future.

How Tradewin Can Help

Tradewin has been assisting clients with reconciliation since the program’s inception in 1998. Over the years, we have established strong relationships with CBP and developed systems tailored to meet evolving requirements. Our dedicated reconciliation team possesses a deep understanding of Customs’ expectations and are experts in the necessary tools and processes.

We manage everything from assembling accurate files to monitoring ACE and tracking deadlines, which enables our clients to focus on their core business while we handle compliance work.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can optimize your supply chain.

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Topics: Reconciliation, Tradewin, FTA, AD/CVD

Blog originally posted on 08/09/2025 12:00 PM

Shelley McIlwain, Senior Manager – United States Trade Advisory Services

Written by Shelley McIlwain, Senior Manager – United States Trade Advisory Services

Shelley is a Licensed Customs professional, with greater than 20 years of experience in import compliance complemented by a tax accounting background. Shelley’s experience includes both consulting and in-house Compliance Department management. Shelley specializes in the development of processes, procedures, and tools to support import compliance, the appraisement of Import Merchandise, Preparation for Focused Assessment Audits, the development and implementation of internal audit programs, and the application and Implementation of Trusted Trader Programs. Shelley holds a Customs Brokers license and a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Oregon