CES (Centralized Examination Station)

What is a CES?

A CES (Centralized Examination Station) is a privately operated facility designated by CBP for physical examination where imported or exported cargo is made available for a Customs inspection.

Shipments selected for a Tail Gate or Intensive exam will be trucked to a CES.

The importer is responsible for all costs associated with a Customs exam, including trucking to and from the CES, the CES fee, storage, etc.

Why does CBP send cargo to a CES?

CBP selects shipments for exams when it needs to verify the contents, the declared value, or compliance with import rules. A Tail Gate exam inspects the goods at the rear of the container, while an Intensive exam unloads the container for a closer review. Cargo can't move on to its destination until CBP releases it.

Exams can add days to your timeline and several charges to your costs. Accurate paperwork can lower the chance of an exam, though CBP also selects some shipments at random.

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