Frequently Asked Questions

December 9, 2011

What should be entered in the Surety Reference Number field?
This field represents the bond serial number for paper bonds. FastBond™ will automatically enter the number in this field. Customers issuing laser-printed bonds should print the Entry Number (for entry bonds) in this field OR the ISF Surety Reference Number (for ISF STBs).

How is the form completed for a unified ISF STB?
CBP needs to provide direction to the trade. It is our assumption that only Activity Code 1 would be checked, but both the Entry Number and ISF Transaction Number would be entered in the “Identification of Transaction” box.

What is the new Affix Seal or Check Box requirement?
CBP must update the regulations for this check box, but have advised that the box should be checked (or the seal affixed to the bond) if the bond principal has a seal in accordance with 19 CFR 113.25.    

19CFR 113.25 – SEALS
When a seal is required, the seal shall be affixed adjoining the signatures of principal and surety, if individuals, and the corporate seal shall be affixed close to the signatures of persons signing on behalf of a corporation. Bonds shall be under seal in accordance with the law of the state in which executed. However, when the charter or governing statute of a corporation requires its acts to be evidenced by its corporate seal, such seal is required.

Does CBP need page 2 or page 3 when filing a bond?
Page 2 is always required and the top four fields (Broker Filer Code, Surety Reference Number, Principal Name and CBP Identification Number) must be completed. The rest of page 2 is only necessary for continuous bonds that have more than one principal, surety and/or unincorporated divisions (Section III users).

Page 3 is instructional information only and not required with a bond filing.

What is the CBP Identification Number?
This is the same as the bond principal’s importer number, CBP-assigned importer number or social security number.

How can I get the laser bond programmed into my ABI system?
Contact us at fastbond@roanoketrade.com and we can assist you!