Frequently Asked Questions

No! Our platform guides you through every step, and our licensed brokers are available to answer questions. We also provide free training webinars and comprehensive documentation. Most users file their first ISF within 30 minutes of signing up.

Simply schedule a demo with our team. We'll walk you through the platform, answer your questions, and help you choose the right service level. Most customers are up and running within 48 hours. We also provide free training webinars and comprehensive documentation to ensure your success.

Absolutely. Many customers start with our brokerage service to learn the process, then transition to self-filing once they're comfortable. We'll help you migrate and provide training at no additional cost.

No. As the importer of record, you have the right to file your own customs entries. However, you must ensure accuracy and compliance. That's where our licensed brokers can assist.

Yes. $500 onboarding fee. Entry pricing: $30.00 for self-filing, $100-$250 per entry for full brokerage services.

Absolutely. Many customers start with full brokerage, then transition to self-filing as they gain experience. You can switch at any time with no penalties.

Each entry includes filing services, CBP communication, error corrections, and access to our platform and tools. Self-filing is $30 per entry plus a $500 onboarding fee. Full brokerage is $100–$250 per entry. Broker help is available Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM MT — not unlimited support.

Yes. We offer discounted per-entry rates for high-volume importers. Contact us to discuss custom pricing based on your monthly import volume and specific needs.

Once you have your documentation ready (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading), filing an ISF takes about 5 minutes. Our system pre-fills information from previous entries and validates data in real-time.

Our software catches most errors before submission with real-time validation. If an error does occur after filing — including IEEPA-related duty issues — our brokers help you pursue CBP’s CAPE process first where it applies, then a post-summary correction or protest as needed.

We support all common entry types including: Type 01 (Consumption), Type 03 (Immediate Delivery), Type 11 (Warehouse), and ISF (10+2).

Our brokers will guide you through the exam process, how to coordinate with CBP and how to ensure all documentation is provided.

We partner with licensed bond providers and can help you obtain a customs bond. Alternatively, you can use your existing bond—just provide us with the bond number.

Our platform includes HTS look up and allows you to review classifications you have made. And whether or not your product is subject to a PGA, ADDCVD, or requires a census quantity.

Yes, for ISF. Customs allows you to file for multiple EINs through one account and filer code. For customs entries, however, the filing of an entry is considered customs business and can only be done by an employee of the company filing the entry.

Yes. We're SOC 2 Type II certified, use 256-bit encryption, and store data in secure US-based servers. We never sell or share your data with third parties.

Absolutely. You can export all entry data, documents, and reports at any time in CSV or Excel format. There's no data lock-in.

ABI (Automated Broker Interface) software is CBP-certified technology that connects directly to U.S. Customs' ACE system for electronic customs entry filing. It enables real-time submission, instant validation, and automated workflows. Strix provides ABI-certified customs entry software so importers can file their own entries with professional-grade technology. Learn more in our comprehensive guide to ABI software.

No, you don't need personal ABI certification. Only the software platform needs CBP certification. When you use Strix's self-filing software, you're accessing our ABI-certified system. You maintain complete control over your entries while leveraging professional-grade technology that meets all CBP requirements for electronic filing.

ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) is CBP's main trade processing system—the government database where all entries are filed. ABI (Automated Broker Interface) is the electronic connection that allows authorized software to communicate with ACE. Think of ACE as a secure building and ABI as the authorized access system that lets approved parties inside.

Not at all. While ABI technology was originally used only by large customs brokers, modern platforms like Strix make it accessible to importers of all sizes. If you import 15-20 or more shipments monthly, ABI software can save you significant time and money compared to traditional brokerage. The automation and validation features benefit any importer seeking greater control and cost efficiency.

ABI software improves clearance in four key ways: Speed (real-time submission and instant status updates), Accuracy (pre-submission validation catches errors before CBP sees them), Cost (automation reduces filing time from 60 minutes to 10 minutes per entry), and Control (direct visibility into your entire import process without intermediaries).

Yes, switching is straightforward. You'll need your importer of record number and a continuous customs bond (we can help you obtain one if needed). Many importers use a hybrid approach—self-filing routine entries while working with brokers for complex shipments. Licensed broker help on the self-filing platform is available Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM MT, not as unlimited support.