What Is CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary)?

What a 7501 is

CBP Form 7501 is the US Entry Summary. It is the formal declaration of what you imported, how it is classified, what it is worth, where it came from, and what duties and fees are due. Brokers and importers often say "file the entry" to mean this filing plus the related cargo-release data sent to CBP through ACE.

Cargo release (getting the goods out of the port) and the entry summary are related but not the same step. Release can happen before the 7501 is complete. The entry summary is still required so CBP can liquidate the entry and collect the correct duties.

Who files the entry

The importer of record is responsible for the entry. That person or company can file themselves through an ABI/ACE connection, or appoint a licensed customs broker to file as their agent. Using a broker does not transfer legal responsibility for classification, valuation, or payment of duties.

• Licensed broker: a CHB reviews the documents, prepares the 7501, and transmits the entry. Strix files entries as a licensed brokerage from $100-$250 per entry. See brokerage services and pricing.
• Self-file: your team prepares and transmits the same entry data through ABI software at $30 per entry. See ABI self-filing.

What goes on the form

A complete 7501 identifies the importer, the entry type, the port, the HTS classification of each line, country of origin, entered value, and the duties, taxes, and fees. Supporting documents (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and any PGA paperwork) stay with the entry record. This is the same data set whether a broker or your own ABI filer transmits it.

CBP publishes the official Form 7501 and instructions. Electronic filers send the equivalent data through ACE rather than mailing a paper form.

Common questions

What is CBP Form 7501?

CBP Form 7501 is the US Entry Summary. It is the formal declaration of what you imported, how it is classified, what it is worth, where it came from, and what duties and fees are due.

Who files a customs entry?

The importer of record is responsible for the entry. They can file themselves through an ABI/ACE connection or appoint a licensed customs broker to file as their agent.

Is cargo release the same as the 7501?

No. Cargo release and the entry summary are related but not the same step. Release can happen before the 7501 is complete. The entry summary is still required so CBP can liquidate the entry and collect the correct duties.

Broker vs self-file

Choose a licensed broker when you want a CHB to prepare and file the 7501 for you. Choose self-filing when you have in-house staff who can classify, value, and transmit entries and want the $30 per-entry rate. Both options use the same ACE pipeline; the difference is who does the work.