CBP Form 28 is a Request for Information: U.S. Customs and Border Protection wants more details about an entry, and you typically have 30 days to answer. CBP Form 29 is a Notice of Action: CBP proposes to change something, such as classification or value, or has already done so. For a proposed action you typically have 20 days to respond; once action has been taken, the usual recourse is a protest within 180 days of liquidation.
CBP Form 28 vs Form 29 at a Glance
| CBP Form 28 | CBP Form 29 | |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Request for Information | Notice of Action |
| What it means | CBP needs more information to review an entry | CBP proposes a change, or has made one |
| Typical triggers | Questions about classification, value, origin, marking or admissibility | Reclassification, valuation changes, rate advances, liquidation changes |
| Typical response time | 30 days (extensions sometimes possible) | Proposed action: typically 20 days. Action taken: protest within 180 days of liquidation |
| Seriousness | Routine, but answer carefully | More serious; can lead to more duty or penalty review |
What Triggers a CBP Form 28
CBP issues a Form 28 when something in an entry needs explaining. Common examples:
- The HTS classification looks wrong for the product described.
- The declared value seems low for the goods.
- The country of origin or origin marking needs supporting evidence.
- CBP wants samples, specifications, invoices or payment records.
How to Respond to a Form 28
- Note the deadline and request an extension early if needed.
- Answer exactly what is asked: product specs, materials, function, costs, payment proof and supplier documents.
- Keep it consistent with your entry, commercial invoice and past filings.
- Have your broker or counsel review before submitting, because incomplete or inaccurate answers can create grounds for penalties.
What a CBP Form 29 Means
A Form 29 states one of two things:
- Proposed action: CBP intends to change something, for example reclassifying goods into a higher-duty code. You typically have 20 days to respond with evidence or arguments.
- Action taken: CBP has already acted, for example assessed more duty or changed the liquidated amount. Your usual recourse is a protest on CBP Form 19 within 180 days of liquidation.
A Form 29 can also be a sign that CBP is reviewing your past entries, especially where valuation or origin is involved. Treat it seriously.
How to Avoid These Notices
- Classify products carefully and keep the classification rationale on file.
- Make sure invoices show complete, accurate values, including assists, commissions and other dutiable costs.
- Keep origin documents from suppliers and confirm marking before shipment.
- Audit your entries regularly and fix errors proactively.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is CBP Form 28?
CBP Form 28 is a Request for Information. CBP sends it when it wants more details about an entry, such as product descriptions, classification, value or country of origin.
How long do I have to answer a CBP Form 28?
Importers are typically given 30 days to respond. Extensions can sometimes be requested if you need more time to gather documents.
What is CBP Form 29?
CBP Form 29 is a Notice of Action. It tells you CBP either proposes to take an action, such as reclassifying goods or changing their value, or has already taken it.
How long do I have to respond to a proposed action on Form 29?
For a proposed action, importers typically have 20 days to respond with evidence or arguments. If the action has already been taken, the usual recourse is a protest on CBP Form 19 within 180 days of liquidation.
Should I hire a customs attorney for a Form 28 or 29?
For simple factual requests a broker can often help, but a Form 29, especially one about valuation, origin or misstatements, can signal closer review of past entries, so many importers involve customs counsel.
