In the 1930s, the U.S. instituted a tariff code, which sought to classify and tax imported footwear based on components. Over time, as new components have been used to produce footwear and as the industry moved overseas, the tariff code has become increasingly more difficult to understand and costs have increased as the industry works to comply with federal customs classifications.
For years, FDRA has provided customs classification clarification to assist its members. To enhance and expand its ability to serve the industry, FDRA worked with ecVision, a supply chain collaboration solutions provider, to create ecVision Classify, an iOS mobile app that allows footwear customs professionals to electronically submit footwear images, and corresponding product attributes, to FDRA for evaluation and a professional opinion about which Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code the footwear sample would be classified under.
“I know customs classification is not the most exciting issue, but every footwear CEO knows the importance customs duties have to costs, revenue and profits,” said FDRA President Matt Priest. “Companies are eager to use our app because we are the only footwear association that provides in-depth customs classification and will provide guidance in less than 24 hours – all of which will boost footwear companies bottom lines by saving them time and greatly enhancing their decision making abilities.”
The platofrm’s portal allows members/users to upload footwear sample images and product material attributes using a mobile (iOS) application specifically developed for FDRA. The information is then relayed to FDRA’s customs experts who log into ecVision Content Collaboration Portal (CCP), view the information/images uploaded, and then provide the member/user with a suggested HTS classification code. System and external email alerts will trigger FDRA staff users to take action on any open requests, and notify user members of completed classification submissions. The application will maintain a database of product records that will serve as a historical reference companies can use as they develop new samples.
Access is available for $48/year for FDRA members and $100/year for non-FDRA members. For information about the mobile app, contact FDRA at info@fdra.org or ecVision at us-marketing@ecvision.com.
