Overview of the Program From Allstar Financial Group
U.S. Custom Surety Bonds are required for businesses and individuals who import goods or perform import-related activities. Allstar’s program supports the single CBP Form 301 bond and can cover up to ten U.S. Customs activity codes on that form. Most placements fall into the first three activity types (importing merchandise, customs brokerage, and bonded warehousing), but the program can be structured for broader activity combinations when appropriate.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
This program is a fit for importers, customs brokers, bonded warehouse operators, freight forwarders, and transportation companies involved in international trade. It accommodates a range of sizes — from small e-commerce importers to larger distribution and manufacturing importers — so long as import operations and financials meet underwriting guidelines.
Example scenarios: You might have a client launching an e-commerce store that imports consumer goods and needs a CBP bond, or a long-time importer expanding shipment volume who now requires an updated customs bond covering additional activity codes. Allstar’s program is flexible for these common agent placements.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
- Supports multiple U.S. Customs activity codes on a single 301 bond
- Helps ensure compliance with federal import regulations
- Protects against non-payment of duties, taxes, and fees
- Access to multiple carriers for competitive underwriting and placement options
Underwriting Notes and Minimum Premiums
Underwriting varies by account type, annual import volume, claims history, and the activity codes requested on the bond. Allstar leverages relationships with multiple carriers to find competitive terms for standard and harder-to-place risks. Minimum premiums and final pricing depend on the required bond amount and underwriting details; contact Allstar’s office to request the application and specific underwriting instructions.
Territories and Availability
Allstar’s U.S. Custom Surety Bonds program is available in most states, including CA, TX, NY, FL, IL, PA, GA, and WA. The program is offered on an admitted basis in many jurisdictions, providing agents with broad territorial access for client placements.
Why Work With Allstar Financial Group on This Business
As a Brokerage General Agency, Allstar brings focused expertise in surety placements for import-related businesses. Agents benefit from Allstar’s carrier access, nimble underwriting options, and practical knowledge of U.S. Customs requirements. The team can assist with standard accounts and more complex or high-limit placements that require multiple activity codes or specialized underwriting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this U.S. Custom Surety Bond program?
This program is well suited for importers, customs brokers, freight forwarders, bonded warehouse operators, and transportation companies engaged in international trade.
What are the most common activity codes covered by the bond?
Most clients fall under the first three activity codes: importing merchandise, acting as a customs broker, or operating a bonded warehouse. The program can cover up to ten activity codes on the Form 301.
How do I start the application process?
Contact Allstar Financial Group to request the appropriate application and underwriting checklist. Provide details on the client's import activity, estimated duties, and any prior bond history to speed placement.
Is this program available nationwide?
Yes — the program is available in most states, including CA, TX, NY, FL, and others. Availability and admitted status vary by state.
Are multiple carriers available for placement?
Yes. Allstar works with multiple carriers to secure competitive terms and flexible underwriting for a variety of importers and brokerages.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.