A record number of U.S. companies importing goods are falling short on federal requirements to financially guarantee import duties, leading to a surge in customs bond insufficiencies. In fiscal year 2025, these insufficiencies reached 27,479, totaling nearly $3.6 billion, doubling 2019 levels due to tariffs enacted under President Trump. Customs bonds ensure tariff collection, with amounts ranging from $50,000 to $450 million based on tariff rates. Importers pay premiums for these bonds, which are held by Customs. Insufficient bonds can halt freight until requirements are met. A potential Supreme Court ruling on Trump’s tariffs could lead to refunds for importers, but delays are expected due to paperwork.
Tariff-linked Customs bond funding gap hits record $3.5 billion
