The Drip Capital Blog

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

Resource Library

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
Enforce And Protect Act (EAPA) | What is it, Proceeding, Benefits & More

Enforce And Protect Act (EAPA) | What is it, Proceeding, Benefits & More

The Enforce and Protect Act of 2015 (EAPA), empowers the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to initiate an investigation of whether any company has evaded anti-dumping and countervailing (AD/CVD) duties in an on the record investigation.

29 January 2026 10 min read
CTPAT | What Is It And Why Is It Important To International Trade

CTPAT | What Is It And Why Is It Important To International Trade

Customs-Trade Partnership against Terrorism (CTPAT) is a program that was formed in the aftermath of 9/11 to protect and strengthen foreign trade and US border security.

29 January 2026 8 min read