The Drip Capital Blog

Insights on finance, working capital, and the realities of international trade: exports, imports, shipping, logistics, and customs clearance.

Resource Library

Continuous Customs Bond For Imports - Application, Renewal & Cost

Continuous Customs Bond For Imports - Application, Renewal & Cost

A continuous customs bond covers all the shipments that are imported within one year after the purchase of the bond. The bond can be renewed upon expiry to ensure continuity.

04 February 2026 8 min read
What is Freight Forwarding & What Does a Freight Forwarder Do

What is Freight Forwarding & What Does a Freight Forwarder Do

A freight forwarder is an important link in the chain of international trade. In simple terms, a freight forwarder is an agent responsible for the movement of goods on behalf of the cargo owner. This responsibility can start from the time the goods are picked up from the seller until they are delivered at the buyer’s specified location.

04 February 2026 6 min read
Ad Valorem Tax: Meaning, Examples & More

Ad Valorem Tax: Meaning, Examples & More

Ad valorem is a Latin word that translates to "according to the value." The ad valorem tax is a type of taxation based on a commodity’s assessed value, like real estate or personal property. It is usually evaluated as a percentage of the property's worth rather than quantity, weight, or size.

04 February 2026 5 min read
Automated Manifest System (AMS) - Meaning, Filing & Fees

Automated Manifest System (AMS) - Meaning, Filing & Fees

The Automated Manifest System (AMS) is an electronic transmission system that provides paperwork to US customs authorities before freight arrives. Initially, the AMS was designed to minimize the time required to import cargo into the US.

03 February 2026 7 min read
What does BAF mean in Shipping?

What does BAF mean in Shipping?

BAF is based on the twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU). Its exact value depends on the trade route and represents the variable part of shipping prices attributed to fuel costs.

02 February 2026 5 min read
Most Common Shipping Documents For Importing In The US

Most Common Shipping Documents For Importing In The US

The international shipping documentation process is complex and involves the proper filing of multiple forms to ensure smooth transactions.Listed below are the top few documents you will need for a smooth international shipping experience.

02 February 2026 9 min read
How To Import Goods In The US  | A Guide For Commercial Importers

How To Import Goods In The US | A Guide For Commercial Importers

Importing in the United States is a complicated process, there are numerous things that an importer must know and consider before he undertakes this task. Any consignment that is imported into the US via any mode of transport is subject to import laws, duty taxes and fees. Permission of the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) is mandatory for any import of goods through a process that may vary depending on the nature of goods or country of origin. In this article, we have covered some key concepts that a beginner must understand before importing in the US.

02 February 2026 10 min read
How To Get Import License In USA - Application, Fee & Permits

How To Get Import License In USA - Application, Fee & Permits

To import goods, foreign companies need to possess an import license to conduct business.An import license is a documentation or submission of an application to the concerned authorities before the import process.

30 January 2026 9 min read