General Order (GO): Understanding Imports With Missing Paperwork

A general order (GO) is a customs status applied to imported goods that lack proper documentation, have unpaid duties or fees, or otherwise cannot be cleared quickly. Goods become subject to general order if they remain uncleared for more than 15 days after arrival.

Key takeaways

• Goods missing required paperwork or not claimed within 15 days are classified as General Order (GO).
• After 15 days, merchandise is moved to a Class 11 bonded (general order) warehouse.
• If items remain under GO for more than six months, they can be seized, auctioned, or otherwise disposed of by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
• CBP auctions are typically held monthly (online and sometimes locally); most members of the public may bid, subject to deposit and pickup rules.
• The port of entry must notify CBP within 20 days that goods are being held or face potential fines.

How general order works

1. Arrival and immediate processing: Imported goods are inspected and processed by customs. To clear, importers must submit required documentation and pay duties, fees, and any applicable interest.
2. Fifteen‑day window: If the required steps are not completed within 15 days, the merchandise is designated GO and moved to a Class 11 bonded warehouse under 19 U.S.C. §1555.
3. Owner responsibility: Transportation and storage risk and costs remain with the owner while goods are under GO.
4. Six‑month disposition: If GO merchandise remains unclaimed for more than six months, CBP may seize, donate, or auction the items.

CBP auctions and rules

• Auctions are typically held online nationwide each month; some are also held at local public venues near ports.
• Auctions are open to the public except CBP employees and their immediate family members.
• Bidders usually must post a deposit (commonly $5,000) to participate.
• Purchases are generally nonrefundable; buyers are responsible for removing picked-up merchandise.

Port responsibilities and penalties

The initial port of entry (or the company that first receives the goods into the U.S.) must notify CBP within 20 days when items are unclaimed or incorrectly documented. Failure to report timely can result in fines (up to $1,000 in some cases).

Avoiding and resolving a General Order

To prevent GO status or reclaim goods:
* Submit complete and accurate customs documentation promptly.
* Pay required duties, fees, and any assessed interest.
* Work with a licensed customs broker if unfamiliar with procedures.
* Respond quickly to CBP notices and arrange pickup or further processing within the 15‑day window.
* If merchandise enters GO, contact CBP and be prepared to pay storage, transportation, and any applicable penalties to recover goods.

Real‑world example

A nationwide CBP online auction held in February 2017 included abandoned items moved from ports to bonded warehouses. Sample items listed:
* Automobiles (e.g., 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 2011 Ford Fusion, 2010 Chevrolet Camaro)
* Men’s and women’s clothing, quilts, backpacks
* Furniture and mirrors, lamps and lighting accessories
* Toy cars, carbon steel pipe

References

• 19 CFR §123.10 — General Order Merchandise
• 19 CFR §19.9 — General Order, Abandoned, and Seized Merchandise
• 19 U.S.C. §1555 — Bonded Warehouses
• CWS Asset Management & Sales — FAQs and CBP bid results