When Do You Need a Bonded Carrier? 5 Scenarios Explained

When it comes to international shipping, choosing the right type of carrier isn’t just about cost—it’s about compliance, efficiency, and avoiding costly delays. For many businesses, a U.S. Customs bonded carrier is not just a preference—it’s a requirement.

But what exactly is a bonded carrier? And when should you choose one?

At Talhon, bonded freight is our specialty. Here's a breakdown of five real-world scenarios where using a bonded carrier isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

1. Your Cargo Hasn’t Cleared Customs Yet

Let’s say your shipment arrives at a U.S. port or border, but it hasn’t been cleared by Customs yet. Maybe the paperwork is still processing, or duties haven’t been paid.

In this case, only a bonded carrier like Talhon is legally allowed to transport that cargo inland—without requiring it to first be cleared.

Why it matters: This lets you move freight to an inland port or bonded warehouse while customs clearance continues—saving you time and avoiding demurrage charges at congested entry points.

2. You’re Moving Goods Between Bonded Facilities

If you're transporting goods from one bonded warehouse to another—or from a port to a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ)—you must use a bonded carrier.

Why it matters: Talhon can authorize cargo under Customs control between secure locations, ensuring your freight remains compliant and protected throughout transit.

3. You Want to Defer Duties Until Final Destination

Sometimes it’s more strategic to delay paying duties and taxes until your goods reach their final distribution point—especially when routing through multiple locations.

Bonded freight allows for deferred payment, offering improved cash flow and flexibility in your supply chain.

Why it matters: Talhon helps optimize your import strategy by moving goods securely under bond until duties become due.

4. Your Cargo Is in Transit to a Land Border Crossing

For importers using Canadian or Mexican ports of entry, bonded carriers are essential when moving freight into the U.S. without customs clearance at the immediate border.

Why it matters: Talhon’s interchange and bonded freight services allow seamless transfer at the border, ensuring compliance and smooth delivery into the U.S. *Currently, services available in Western Canadian border.

5. Your Shipment Was Held or Flagged by Customs Mid-Transit

Sometimes, even after clearance, shipments get flagged by U.S. Customs for reinspection or reclassification. If your shipment needs to be rerouted to a Customs Exam Site or other bonded facility, only a bonded carrier can legally handle the job.

Why it matters: Talhon is equipped to move and store flagged cargo without breaking the bond, ensuring fast, compliant handling during unplanned inspections. *Subject to compliance approvals.

Need a Bonded Company You Can Trust?

Bonded freight isn’t just about moving goods—it’s about navigating regulations, optimizing your supply chain, and avoiding costly errors.

At Talhon, we’re a U.S. Customs bonded company with a proven track record of helping importers, freight-brokers, forwarders, and manufacturers move freight efficiently and securely—coast to coast.

Need help moving bonded freight? Email us at Team@Talhon.com or explore our bonded freight services to get started.