The Hidden Risks of Importing: Former Auditor Cindy DeLeon Talks Tips to Stay Off Customs' Radar

Is your company "sexy" to customs auditors? Discover what puts you on their radar and how to prepare.

In this episode, trade compliance expert Cindy De Leon shares insider knowledge on customs audits, compliance risks, and essential preparation strategies for importers. Learn what factors make your business an attractive audit target and the steps you need to take to protect yourself. Main Points/Takeaways:

1. Audit attractors: Free trade agreement claims, first sale programs, tariff changes, and anti-dumping duties

2. The critical importance of vetting suppliers and tracking component origins

3. Why nearshoring doesn't eliminate compliance risks

4. How to prepare for a customs audit through internal reviews and cross-functional teams

5. Common valuation errors that trigger red flags (CRAPP: commissions, royalties, assists, packing, proceeds)

6. Limitations of internal auditors for trade compliance assessments

Key Insights:

• "Find out what makes you sexy to customs, because is it a free trade agreement? Is it a first sale program?" - Cindy De Leon

• "How much undeclared crap would customs find in conducting an audit of your evaluation?" - Cindy on overlooked dutiable elements

• "Your procedures need to have teeth, okay? And not the kind that are removable." - Cindy on creating effective compliance procedures

This episode provides invaluable insights for trade compliance professionals and executives to assess their audit risks and strengthen procedures. Armed with Cindy's expert advice, companies can better avoid costly penalties and disruptions from customs enforcement actions, ensuring smoother international trade operations.

Enjoy the show!

Sign up for the upcoming Forced Labor training (Supply Chain Tracing) here:
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Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ 
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ 
Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/

Show references:

• Cindy DeLeon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindydeleon/ 
• DeLeon Trade: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deleon-trade-llc/ 
• Global Training Center - www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
• Simply Trade Podcast - twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 

Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod 

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Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute