Dutycalc Data Systems was founded in 1988 as a software and consulting company that designs, develops and implements management support systems for the import, export and brokerage communities. Our primary area of focus is Duty Drawback and the implementation of our fully automated Drawback System.
Importing from China
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
Many companies within the U.S. import goods from China. Last year China’s trade surplus reached $422 billion U.S. dollars. Why? Well, China is a low-cost labor country, their raw materials cost about 1/10th of U.S. raw materials, and the Chinese are simply the best designers. Their vision of product design across industries is second to none. That being said, it is not hard to see why many companies choose to import from China. If you run a company that is looking to import goods from China, well, that is not a bad idea at all. But, you should consider doing a few things.
Define your product’s quality benchmark. In order to do this, you and your team need to work on three design aspects. First work on your ideal design and specifications. Then, finalize the flow of work to be carried out on raw materials. Lastly, decide on a benchmark. Know what your ideal quality standards are and your acceptable levels of flaws.
Next, you need to communicate quality standards to the supplier. Define things like protocols and timing. Communicate in person as much as possible. Form that relationship and do not get comfortable doing business only online.
You should also ensure that your product’s quality criteria is fulfilled by the supplier. In other words, compare what they give you to the benchmark that your company has created. A good way to ensure that your product is up to your standards is to implement pre-production audits, in-progress audits, and post-production audits. In these audits, you can sample test and make sure everything is on track.
Lastly, delegate a responsible authority for conducting those quality control audits. It can be you, it can be someone on your team, it can be a hired on experienced professional, or it can be through a contract with a third party. Whichever option you choose, make sure someone is in charge of checking the quality of your products through audits.
Importing from China can have various benefits but highly consider doing these things when doing business with them. You will be in a much better position to succeed if you follow these suggestions.
For more information on importing and exporting stay updated here on our monthly blog.
Monday, 20 July 2020
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax, Section 301
Foreign Goods Safe? Risky?
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
The coronavirus has caused a lot of uncertainty this year across the globe. What is safe? Who is safe? What can we do? What can’t we do? So many questions. So little answers. Because of the uncertainty, consumers are questioning their every move including where they choose to buy from and which goods they choose to buy. CNBC reported that in April the market research firm, Kantar, surveyed 45,000 people across 17 counties. In the study, they found that a third of global consumers are now worried that products imported from outside countries is a safety risk. Countries perceived China and the U.S. as high risk with 47% of them saying that they were far less in favor of buying American and Chinese products. An executive from Kanter also said that people were beginning to favor locally-produced goods even though the price point was higher.
The question is, is there really a risk in foreign goods? According to the CDC and the British government, the risk is low. The CDC says that the virus can survive for a short period of time on some surfaces but is mostly spread via respiratory droplets. It is unlikely that consumers contract the virus from international mail, products, or packaging. Similarly, the British government says that the risk of contraction from imported food and packaging from affected countries is low. They justify their position by arguing that their laws require all exporters to follow the proper controls during the packing and shipping process to ensure good hygiene is met. So, if you are concerned about the safety of foreign goods the CDC and the British government claim that you are safe. The best way to avoid the virus is to wear a mask, limit your time around others, and stay 6 feet away from everybody. For more information on the import and export business, stay updated here on our monthly blog.
Monday, 27 January 2020
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax, Section 301
Improving Import Benefits
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
If you are already in the import business and looking to improve your benefits here are some things you might want to consider. The first thing you can do is work with a government-regulated trading program. Doing this will be more than worth the investment because they will help you navigate doing business with countries with strict regulations. Many programs are restrictive and overbearing but they do have many benefits for foreign importers including reduced risk when trading with a government-approved firm. Working with a government-regulated trading program is also a good idea if you want to increase your security. A second thing you can do to improve your import benefits is to hire a third-party risk assessment. A compliance consultant or firm will help you assess risk and evaluate your import logistics. Many import companies have a staff member dedicated to compliance, but the downside is that often times staff members who are familiar with business operations, overlook potential threats. Hiring a third-party will eliminate this risk and best alert you of risks before they arise. The last thing you can do to improve your import benefits is to develop a niche! For example, if you are running a new import business, you might be only importing one product. However, certain forms of the product may sell better than others. Compare the products that cost the most to import based on things like cost per product, customs, and shipping fees, to your most profitable products based on highest demand. Then ask yourself if there is a way to eliminate products that are costly and low-volume sellers. Generally speaking, you want to put all of your efforts towards products that are cheapest to obtain and the ones that bring in the highest revenue. Work with a government-regulated trading program, hire a third-party risk assessment consultant/firm, and develop a niche to improve your import benefits! For more tips on importing reach out to us here at Dutycalc.
Sunday, 01 December 2019
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax
Mitigating the Impact of Tariffs
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
Importers and exporters within the United States are looking for ways to mitigate the impact of recent tariffs that have been levied on hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of goods. Though policy changes seem to be continuously changing month to month, there are ways to avoid or reduce duties. Below are a few strategies that companies can use to work around these duties. Businesses can request to exclude specific products from the tariffs through the Department of Commerce and the Office of the United States Trade Representative. In order to do this, businesses must explain how and why their imported goods are critical to the United States economy. When a convincing case has been made, the request has been approved. Beforehand, businesses need to review the exclusions granted on List 1-3 to determine if their own imports are covered. Businesses can shift operations away from one country to another to escape duty increases. Essentially, businesses should change the imported product’s country of origin. For example, the United States Customs and Border Protection has found that the complex assembly of numerous parts, modules, or subassemblies into dedicated machines results in a substantial transformation of the components so that their country of origin is where the finished product was produced. This might be an expensive and difficult change, but it could result in saving on increased tariffs. Businesses can file for duty drawback. This is probably the most effective way to get back money from these tariffs. Using resources like those offered from Dutycalc can help businesses get a refund of up to 99% of duties and fees paid on imported goods. Use these strategies to help mitigate the impact of tariffs. For more information on anything regarding the import and export industry, please reach out to us here at Dutycalc.
Tuesday, 22 October 2019
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax
Take Your Business Global
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
Doing business with international companies is a very daunting yet rewarding task, if done correctly. If you are in the import and export industry looking for ways to improve the way you trade across borders, here are three tips from our experts at DutyCalc.
- Learn the logistics with the help of a freight forwarder or customs broker. Shipping goods overseas is a complicated business. There are so many logistical processes that need to be considered. Goods must be packed and labeled correctly, accompanied by the right documentation, and sent using the appropriate shipping method. On top of all of those aspects, all of this needs to occur efficiently and in the most cost-effective way. To make sure all of the necessary boxes are checked, most businesses invest in trusted freight forwarders and/or customs brokers. These companies will help alleviate the stressful complications that are required while ensuring that your goods get to their destination quickly and safely. The best freight forwarders and customs brokers have a strong network of contacts and agents in the countries you will be doing business with and come backed with positive references.
- Research different payment methods. Finding the most cost-effective way to send money overseas is challenging as the banks that handle all of your other financial accounts are known to have high fees and poor exchange rates. Each transaction can cost you anywhere between $10-$30. Similarly, your bank’s exchange rate is probably significantly lower than the real exchange rate (~5% lower). The point here being that you should always compare the exchange rates and extra fees offered from your bank with special money transfer services (Western Union). You could save a lot of money and avoid bank traps if you do your research.
- Get expert help and advice! As stated before, entering the import and export industry is a daunting task. So, don’t do it alone! Our company, DutyCalc is one resource that you can use to find answers to all of your import and export questions. We have over 40 years of industry knowledge and our team has backgrounds in all areas ranging from drawback solutions to U.S. Customs regulations. We are here to help in any way as we understand that this industry can be very confusing. Use DutyCalc as a resource and we will gladly partner with you through your journey.
For more tips or more information about DutyCalc, visit our website or contact us directly! We look forward to doing business with you!
Wednesday, 25 September 2019
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax, Section 301
Understanding Risks
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
Entering the global marketplace is a challenge that requires education, experience, and a driven mindset. Along with these qualities you must understand that this industry comes with risks that could lead to significant repercussions. Before entering the international marketplace, understand these risks and how to avoid them.
One risk that import and export businesses face is unpredictable shipping logistics. When its all said and done, your business success is dependent on whether you can ship goods safely and efficiently. You need to make sure that your product gets from point A to point B on time. You need to account for everything that could possibly go wrong from an employee calling in sick to damage to the cargo. The best way to mitigate this risk is to stay organized, be prepared, and partner with a reliable freight forwarder that will help you ship your goods without a hitch.
Another risk that import and export businesses face is not knowing enough about the current market. For example, did you know that exports contracted 6% last month which narrowed the trade deficit to $13.45 billion? Did you know that this was the second time that exports contracted in the current fiscal year? If not, you need to do more research on the current market. With the trade war causing changes to the global marketplace daily, it is important to consider those changes before you decide to enter the industry.
The last risk that import and export businesses face is running into problems at the border. Customs is one of the biggest, if not the biggest, hurdle that importers and exporters have to face. Customs rules are not uniform throughout the world. To avoid significant slowdowns at international customs, again, do your research or hire experts in customs law and trade compliance to help you navigate this area of the business.
Bottom line is that the import and export business is one with opportunity but is also one that comes with risks. To find success in this industry understand all of the risks, stay organized, prepare for the worst, and know how to handle logistics. If you have all of these qualities, you will be that much closer to finding success in the import and export industry.
Wednesday, 17 July 2019
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax
Import Export Drawback.NET Technology
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
So much of today’s business success comes from the implementation and usage of compelling technology. Technology can have many benefits across all industries, especially the import/export industry. Today we’ll talk about how technology, specifically the Drawback.NET software, can help your business.
As mentioned before in previous articles, Drawback.NET is a hands on tool that allows business owners in the import/export industry to file drawback themselves. This resource has proven to help business owners successfully file for years. Why? Because it’s easy, accurate, efficient.
Drawback.NET is user friendly and intuitive. It’s not a complex software system that requires an IT or tech specialist. This resource was designed so anyone in the industry can use it and understand it with ease. The software does the majority of the hard work. Simply read the instructions and follow them correctly. If there are any questions or concerns while using the system, simply call our service center and we’ll be happy to help. Filing for drawback can be a long and tedious task, but with a system like Drawback.NET filing will become much easier.
Drawback.NET is also beneficial for businesses in the import/export industry because it files accurately. This resource is compliant with all Customs Regulations like tariffs and Schedule B’s. The import/export industry is one that seems to have changing rules/regulations quite frequently. Because of this the DutyCalc staff is always making updates to the software so it’s compliant with all recent filing requirements. Drawback.NET is the most accurate filing software and one that you can always trust.
Lastly, Drawback.NET is a resourceful tool because it’s efficient for business owners. Doing paperwork by hand, staying up to date on the new tariff regulations, and making phone calls throughout the day just to file one claim is a waste of time. Businesses often times don’t have the time to file and this eventually leads to lost money. This is why Drawback.NET is so useful; because it makes the end to end filing process more efficient. No more paperwork and tedious written work. All of it can now be done thanks to technology through Drawback.NET.
DutyCalc’s Drawback.NET is easy, accurate, and efficient. For any business owner in the industry that is music to their ears. Save time and help your business successfully file for drawback by using Drawback.NET. Give us a call or stay updated on our blog for more information.
Wednesday, 19 June 2019
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax, Section 301
Partner with DutyCalc
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
When it comes to dealing with money, it is important to work with reliable and trustworthy partners. Whether you’re running a small business or a Fortune 500 company, you don’t want to run the risk of losing money because of a bad partnership. Good financial partnerships are critical especially for companies in the import/export industry because of all the details regarding drawback. If you and your business are in the import/export industry and in need of a dependable partner to help with drawback, look no further than DutyCalc. Here are 3 of the most important factors that make DutyCalc the best partners for importers and exporters.
DutyCalc has experience. Collectively, the DutyCalc team has over 4 decades of experience in duty drawback. Part of DutyCalc’s experience in duty drawback has come from partnerships with some of the biggest companies you can think of. Companies like FedEx, Fender, and TaylorMade are all current or previous clients of DutyCalc. We understand how to manage duty drawback for large companies, and we understand all of the necessary steps in the process based on our experience. Put your trust in us as we have the knowledge of how to be successful.
DutyCalc has a proven track record. Whether it was the full service drawback or the software system, Drawback.NET, we have helped clients from around the country claim drawback without fail. We help clients claim up to 99% of duty drawback! DutyCalc systems are efficient and cut down processing times significantly. Our process works and will be worth the investment. Refer to our Testimonials to see our successful track record with our clients.
Last but not least, partner with DutyCalc because we always put customers first. Providing the best customer service is our number one goal so, as a client, understand that your needs come first. If you don’t understand part of the drawback process, we’ll walk you through every step. If you’re running into technical problems with Drawback.NET, call our support team and they won’t hang up until your problem is fixed. Happy customers are what drives our business, so making them happy is our number one priority. By partnering with DutyCalc, you and your needs will always come first.
For those in the import/export industry, partner with DutyCalc as we are partners that you can rely on and trust. We have experience with some of the largest companies on Earth, we have a proven track record, and you will always get great customer service. For more information on what DutyCalc has to offer, give us a call! We look forward to working with you.
Wednesday, 22 May 2019
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax
Drawback NET
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
Drawback.NET If you run your own company, from the beginning, one of your goals was probably to mitigate as many costs as possible. Any successful company will have low costs and high profits, right? If you are in the import/export industry, one way to accomplish this objective, one that is often overlooked, is through duty drawback. Duty drawback provides a way to offset duties that are paid with refunds. To keep it simple, drawback is a refund of Customs duties that is paid on imported materials that are either exported or used in the manufacture of exported articles, according to American Shipper. With appropriate documentation, guidance, and filing system, you can claim up to 99% of duties paid. This is where DutyCalc comes into play.
DutyCalc has been helping companies across the country mitigate costs by helping them properly file for drawback on all of their duties. DutyCalc’s most popular product is their drawback software, called Drawback.NET. This software allows businesses to file drawback for their company by themselves. The software is user friendly and current customers have given nothing but positive feedback. DutyCalc’s goal with this software is to allow customers to have full knowledge and control of filing their duties without having to pay for a full service drawback solution. By purchasing this software, you will also be signing up for a partnership with DutyCalc. This meaning that although Drawback.NET is a self-operating software, the DutyCalc team will always be available to answer any questions or help you navigate through the software at any point in time.
Due to the recent changes in the trade war, DutyCalc has been an essential tool in the import/export industry. Filing for drawback has skyrocketed and Drawback.NET has seen great success. DutyCalc is here for you and your company to ensure that your money is claimed in full. Don’t wait any longer as our software will only benefit your company.
For more information visit our website or give us a call. Work with us to get your money back!
Sunday, 21 April 2019
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Published in Drawback, drawback service, drawback software, export tax, import tax, Section 301
Software Service
Duty Drawback Software | Import Export Consulting | Processing Filing | Full Service
The Section 301 trade war has been a long and unpredictable process. Some new tariffs are already being enforced while some are still to come depending on what the U.S. and China agree upon. Though there has not been a final agreement between the two countries, do not wait to file for the available drawback on Section 301 duties. Dutycalc has been a valuable resource to clients as their services have helped claim 99% of Section 301 duties from China thus far.
The three services Dutycalc offers are a full service drawback, a process & file only service, and the software service. Out of these three services, Dutycalc has seen that the software service has been one of the greatest successes. The software service, Drawback.NET, allows clients to easily generate claims on their own. The software allows for hands on filing and complete operational control on a personal/company PC. If you do not need or want help filing, the software system is your best option. It is user friendly and has been used throughout the country by various Fortune 500 companies. This software system has seen nothing but success as not a single Dutycalc client has failed a Customs audit.
The software service is great for anyone filing for drawback on their own but what makes the Dutycalc brand even more valuable to our clients is the partnership. The software system is designed to allow you, our clients, to do everything drawback related on your own. However, if a question arises with the system or if there is a question regarding updated news on the Section 301 trade war, our representatives are only one phone call or email away. Our staff at Dutycalc understands that questions and problems will arise during the ongoing battle between the U.S and China. Because of this, every client who ever purchased any one of our services is promised access to expert knowledge from the Dutycalc staff. Simply reach out and we will gladly assist you.
Work with Dutycalc if you are looking for great services and an even better partnership. Give us a call or visit our website for more information.