As part of the in-bond regulations, a FIRMS code must also be included when reporting an in-bond shipment’s arrival. This code indicates to CBP where the shipment has actually arrived. Unlike the port code, which indicates the general area, the FIRMS code indicates the specific facility where the goods have arrived. It is always important to link the FIRMS code to the in-bond destination port.
A FIRMS code may refer to different types of facilities depending on the type of in-bond movement:
- A CBP port facility would be appropriate if you are reporting the arrival of an in-bond already leaving the US, such as one from Transportation and Exportation that has already entered Canada. CBP would use the port of departure from the U.S. as the appropriate port facility.
- When the in-bond movement covers delivery to either a U.S. bonded warehouse or a foreign trade zone.
- An airport, seaport, or other secure carrier facility.
