U.S. Customs and Border Protection is warning importers that inaccurate information on file with the agency could cost them their ability to bring goods into the United States, starting Sept. 18.

The agency outlined the enhanced enforcement in a notice filed Aug. 18 and published in the Federal Register Aug. 19. It covers new and existing importers of record (IORs), including information submitted on their behalf by customs brokers.

The focus is CBP Form 5106, the Create/Update Importer Identity Form. It establishes or updates an importer’s identity in CBP’s systems, associates the business with an importer number and is a prerequisite for becoming an importer of record.

CBP is reviewing information already on file. Importers must keep those records current, rather than simply ensure they were accurate when initially submitted. The initiative follows a June 3 executive order directing stronger customs enforcement.

What CBP Is Checking

Email addresses and phone numbers must belong to the importer — not its broker or another third party. Physical addresses must identify the importer’s actual location, not a registered agent, customs broker, freight forwarder, P.O. box or business service center.

Existing regulations also require brokers to execute powers of attorney directly with importers, rather than through freight forwarders or other third parties.

If CBP finds inaccurate or incomplete information, it will immediately void the IOR number, making it unusable for entering merchandise. CBP will email notice to the latest address on file, explaining the reason and how to request reinstatement. Questions and reinstatement requests can go to [email protected] using “Enforcing IOR Accuracy” as the subject line.

The agency separately warned of broker penalties, potential False Claims Act liability and fines or imprisonment for intentional false statements or fraud.

MDM Analysis

Distributors should treat this as a supply-continuity priority, not routine paperwork. Before Sept. 18, work with customs brokers to verify the Form 5106 details actually on file with CBP, including legal names, identification numbers and contact information. Assign an internal owner, use a monitored company-controlled email inbox and require documented reviews after acquisitions, relocations or personnel changes. Broker support should complement internal accountability, not replace it. Distributors that buy through other importers should also ask critical suppliers whether they have checked their records and discuss contingencies for delayed inbound inventory.