Shapiro, celebrating its 99th year in business, will host a half-day seminar for importers titled “Essentials of Customs Valuation,” followed by the Propeller Club’s Annual Crab Feast

Shapiro, the 99-year-old leader in global transportation and regulatory compliance, will present a seminar for importers titled “The Essentials of Customs Valuation” on August 14, 2014, at the Hotel Monaco in Baltimore.

The half-day seminar, which runs from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., will cover valuation rules, what makes a good commercial invoice, and what charges can be deducted from the dutiable value. Under the law, importers are required to use Reasonable Care for the valuation of imported merchandise so that Customs can properly assess duties, collect accurate statistics and determine whether all applicable legal requirements have been met. Importers must ensure all appropriate costs are reported to Customs. The discussion will also feature how Incoterms can impact Customs valuation.

“With 99 years of experience, we are so pleased to be able to offer these educational opportunities to our customers and the importing community,” said Jane Taeger, Shapiro’s director of compliance. “Valuation is a critical element of the Customs entry and certain costs are often overlooked. Those attending this seminar will gain valuable information for their import program.”

Following the seminar, attendees are invited to join Shapiro for the annual Crab Feast, which attracts thousands and is arguably the most popular industry event of the year. It draws participants from New York to Norfolk and beyond to enjoy all-you-can-eat steamed crabs and plentiful networking opportunities at Conrad Ruth’s Villa, a waterfront park on Middle River. The feast is a fundraiser for the Propeller Club, enabling the group to make significant contributions to various non-profit maritime organizations.

Importers and exporters that would like to attend may register here.