Basics of Exporting and Export Documentation, Introduction to International Payment Methods for Exporters, Mandatory AES filing, Establishing New International Markets, Incoterms 2000 - Thursday, September 18, 2008 and Friday, September 19, 2008 – Learn all of the details about mandatory AES filing of shipping information published June 2, 2008 with final implementation on September 30, 2008. There are important new filing deadlines and increased penalties that include possible seizure of your goods. Come and learn the details in advance of the implementation.  Program includes a thorough discussion of export payment vehicles, including letters of credit and documentary collections.  A representative from the US Department of Commerce in Boston will join us to discuss support tools they have to offer to exporters to increase export sales and assist you to introduce your product to new markets.   This session provides the novice with exporting basics and also challenges more experienced exporters as an ideal refresher course.  Bring your calculator, as there will be hands on exercises to ensure your understanding of the concepts.  Eastern Insurance, Natick, MA, Registration and breakfast:  8:30am, Seminar: 9:00am - 3:30pm September 18, 9:00am - 12:00pm September 19.  Fee: $200.00 per person.  Directions to Eastern Insurance, Natick, MA

Basics of Importing and Import Documentation, Introduction to International Methods of Payment for Importers - Thursday, October 2, 2008 and Friday, October 3, 2008 – Learn the detailed sequence of events that occur from the time of the pro forma quote to delivery at destination. Learn what information to provide the freight forwarder for an accurate quote; what transportation and customs clearance documents you, the freight forwarder and customs broker need to prepare and the role of the freight forwarder and customs broker in the transaction. The session will also discuss how an entry is prepared and filed, classification, valuation, country of origin marking requirements, invoice requirements and other government agency requirements for imported goods.  Participants will also be briefed on the current legislation regarding import cargo safety measures. Discover some of the many “Hidden Dangerous Goods” that may cause problems for you and your company. Bring your calculator for the hands-on exercises to ensure understanding of the concepts.  Program includes a thorough discussion of import payment vehicles, including letters of credit and documentary collections.  This session is ideal for those new to importing and provides a comprehensive refresher for more experienced importers.  Bring your calculator, as there will be hands on exercises to ensure your understanding of the concepts.  This event is approved by National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America Inc (NCBFAA) for 9 CCS continuing education points.  Eastern Bank, Middleboro, MA, Registration and breakfast:  8:30am, Seminar: 9:00am - 3:30pm October 2, 9:00am - 12:00pm October 3.  Fee: $200.00 per person.  Directions to Eastern Bank, Middleboro, MA

Basics of Export Compliance, Deemed Exports, Export Administration Regulations - Thursday, October 16, 2008 - In this full day workshop, participants will learn the step by step process for exporting to ensure violation free shipments. We will take a seemingly innocent commodity and learn about dual uses as we proceed through the process of determining whether a Department of Commerce (EAR) or Department of State (ITAR) license is required.  Participants will receive guidance in understanding and complying with the Bureau of Industry and Security Regulations (BIS), the various types of licenses, how to complete the AES transaction as well as how to implement an export compliance program. Session includes updates on relevant industry regulations. The China Military Catch-All Rule will be discussed.
Learn all of the details about mandatory AES published June 2, 2008 with final implementation on September 30, 2008. There are important new filing deadlines and increased penalties that include possible seizure of your goods. Come and learn the details.  John McKenna, Special Agent with The Bureau of Industry and Security, will be there to answer your questions and explain their role.  This session is essential for those new to export compliance and provides a comprehensive refresher for more experienced staff members.  Eastern Bank, Saugus, MA, Registration and breakfast:  8:30am, Seminar:  9:00am - 3:30pm, Fee: $125.00 per person.  Directions to Eastern Bank, Saugus, MA

Classification and Valuation of Imported Merchandise, Basics of Foreign Exchange for Importers - Wednesday, October 22, 2008 - This full day program will include a morning session with instruction on the background of the Harmonized Tariff System, the General Rules of Interpretation and how they apply to classification, the benefits and process for obtaining a binding classification ruling, classification and how it applies to Preferential Duty Programs, establishing an internal product classification dictionary for Customs purposes and practical exercises in product classification. The afternoon will focus on the various Valuation methods, how to determine the transaction value for Customs purposes, additions to the price paid or payable that are reportable to Customs, the most recent update on the “First Sale” rule, related party issues, and transfer pricing.  The program includes a practical discussion of Foreign Exchange basics for importers, a critical component to maintaining profitability in today’s volatile currency environment.  This event is approved by National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America Inc (NCBFAA) for 6 CCS continuing education points.  Eastern Insurance, Natick, MA, Registration and breakfast:  8:30am, Seminar: 9:00am - 3:30pm, Fee: $125.00 per person.  Directions to Eastern Insurance, Natick, MA

Import Compliance Basics - Thursday, November 13, 2008 – As Customs continues to focus on importers’ internal controls over its import operations, it is more important than ever for importers to fully understand why import compliance is so significant to Customs. In this full day session, we will discuss import compliance procedures and how to correctly establish and review the same, the significance of written policies and procedures, the concepts of Reasonable Care, Shared Responsibility and Informed Compliance, Focused Assessment audits, penalties and liquidated damage claims and how to be a compliant importer.  This event is approved by National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America Inc (NCBFAA) for 6 CCS continuing education points.  Eastern Bank, Saugus, MA, Registration and breakfast:  8:30am, Seminar:  9:00am - 3:30pm, Fee: $125.00 per person.  Directions to Eastern Bank, Saugus, MA

International Trade Risk Assessment, Security Update in Global Markets - Tuesday, November 18, 2008 – Security risk is one of the most critical issues confronting companies and individuals today. This full day session will have a variety of speakers addressing trade risk assessment for you and your company. We will discuss internet and website security as well as facility security.  With the incidence of fraud increasing, safeguarding against payment and deposit account fraud is an important concern of business professionals. Learn about some of the fraud control services offered by financial institutions and how you can strengthen internal controls to mitigate financial loss in today's global economy.  This session will also review insurance options available to provide protection for companies involved in international trade. In addition, facility security and the benefits of the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) will be covered along with the European Union’s Authorized Equipment Operator security program. An update on the controversial 10+2 rule and other SAFE Port Act initiatives will also be featured.  Eastern Insurance, Natick, MA, Registration and breakfast:  8:30am, Seminar: 9:00am - 3:30pm, Fee: $125.00 per person.  Directions to Eastern Insurance, Natick, MA