# Customs Duty Deferral Program

*Last updated: 2026-06-18*

> A Customs Duty Deferral Program is an officially sanctioned procedure that allows authorized importers to postpone paying customs duties on imported goods until those goods are sold, further processed, or re-exported.

A Customs Duty Deferral Program is an officially sanctioned procedure that allows authorized importers to postpone paying customs duties on imported goods until those goods are sold, further processed, or re-exported. Deferred duties fall due once the goods change their customs status or leave the customs territory. For importers holding large inventories ahead of confirmed sales, the program significantly eases cash-flow pressure. Comparable mechanisms exist across many jurisdictions under various names – bonded warehouses, inward processing relief, or free zones – and each comes with its own eligibility criteria. Approval typically requires proof of compliance history and the posting of adequate financial security; freight forwarders routinely assist clients with applications and ongoing reporting obligations.

**Source:** [https://www.customs.gov](https://www.customs.gov)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Customs Duty Deferral Program |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 114 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-18 |
| Source | https://www.customs.gov |

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