When goods enter a country, they must be declared to customs. The entry number is your proof of legal import.
What is an Entry Number?
- Unique identifier assigned by customs
- Proof that duties/taxes were assessed or paid
- Required for audit trail
- Different names by country:
- USA: Entry Number (CBP Form 7501)
- Mexico: Pedimento
- EU: MRN (Movement Reference Number)
- UK: Entry Reference Number
Types of Entry:
- Formal Entry: Value over threshold (US: $2,500), full duties
- Informal Entry: Lower value, simplified process
- Temporary Import: Goods returning, duty-free
- Personal Exemption: Traveler's goods, limited value
OnFlyGo Entry Tracking:
- Courier must record entry number upon arrival
- System validates format by country
- Required to complete delivery
- Stored for audit/compliance
For OBC Couriers:
- Declare goods at customs upon arrival
- Get stamped documentation
- Record entry number in OnFlyGo app
- Keep copies of all documents
- Provide to shipper for their records
Common Issues:
- Forgetting to declare (can be seized)
- Wrong value declared (penalties)
- Missing entry number (can't prove legal import)
- Not keeping copies (audit problems)