When cargo is held or a customs question threatens a supply chain, the first step is to read the actual notice and build a reliable factual record. We represent Chinese and U.S. importers, exporters, manufacturers and logistics providers in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) matters and in ongoing trade compliance.
Scope of representation
- Cargo holds, examinations, detentions and seizures
- Petitions for relief, mitigation requests and administrative review
- Customs protests and entry-related disputes
- Tariff classification, valuation, country of origin and marking
- CF-28 requests for information, CF-29 notices of action, redelivery demands and audits
- Penalties, liquidated damages and prior disclosures
- Supply-chain documentation, broker coordination and compliance programs
Detentions and seizures
A hold, a detention and a seizure raise different questions and follow different procedures. We identify the handling office, the stated concern, the entry and the parties involved, and the instructions in the notice. We then organize commercial and transportation evidence and assess the administrative response, permitted export or re-export, and any litigation issues. Release and processing times depend on the agency and the record.
Petitions, protests and penalties
A petition for relief and a customs protest serve different purposes. Before recommending a procedure, we review the challenged action, the client’s role, the entry history and earlier filings. Work may include a factual chronology, exhibits, the petition or protest, and follow-up with the responsible office.
How a matter proceeds
- Review the notice and dates. Collect the complete notice, identify the government contact and confirm the current procedural position.
- Connect the facts and evidence. Reconcile entry records, contracts, product information, payments and communications.
- Choose and carry out a response. Explain the options, agree on scope and fees, and prepare the submission.
Timing and fees
Timing depends on the notice, the agency or court, and the facts. Response dates stated in a notice are reviewed individually as soon as we receive it. Scope, fees and any deposit are discussed before we are engaged and confirmed in a written engagement letter.
Facing a deadline? Call (520) 358-5095. An online appointment request does not extend any government or court deadline.
Documents for an initial review
- The complete CBP or agency notice, including the envelope or e-mail header
- Entry summary (CBP Form 7501) and entry number, invoices, packing lists, bills of lading or air waybills
- Correspondence with the customs broker, forwarder, importer and supplier
- A short chronology, any stated response date, and the outcome you are seeking
E-mail copies to info@attorneywu.com with the subject “Your name – short description”. Please do not send documents through the chat or the booking form.
Frequently asked questions: customs holds, detentions, seizures and penalties
U.S. Customs (CBP) detained my shipment. What happens next and how fast must I act?
Under 19 U.S.C. § 1499(c), CBP generally has 5 business days after goods are presented for examination to release or detain them, and must send a notice of detention explaining the reason. If CBP makes no decision within 30 days after presentation, the goods are treated as excluded and the importer can file a protest. The fastest path to release is usually a prompt, well-documented response: commercial invoice, packing list, proof of origin, and any agency certificates (FDA, FCC, CPSC, EPA). Detention responses are time-sensitive, so contact an attorney as soon as you receive a notice.
CBP seized my goods. What is the deadline to respond?
A CBP Notice of Seizure generally gives you 30 days from the date of the notice to choose how to respond — for example, filing an administrative petition for relief, making an offer in compromise, or asking that the case be referred to federal court. If you do nothing, CBP may proceed with forfeiture. A strong petition explains the facts, the legal basis for relief, and mitigating factors, with supporting documents. In 2025, matters led by attorney Cynthia Wu secured the release of more than US$10 million in detained merchandise and recovered about US$90,000 in seized merchandise (merchandise value; prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome).
How long do I have to protest a CBP decision?
Under 19 U.S.C. § 1514, a protest generally must be filed within 180 days after the date of liquidation or the date of the CBP decision being protested. Protests can challenge classification, valuation, rate of duty, exclusion of merchandise and other decisions. If a protest is denied, the importer may be able to sue in the U.S. Court of International Trade.
What is a prior disclosure, and can it reduce customs penalties?
A prior disclosure (19 C.F.R. § 162.74) lets an importer report a violation of 19 U.S.C. § 1592 — such as undervaluation, misclassification or wrong country of origin — before CBP begins a formal investigation. A valid prior disclosure, with payment of the lost duties, can greatly reduce penalties. Timing and wording matter, so it should be prepared carefully.
General information only, not legal advice. Book a consultation for advice on your situation.
