U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced enhanced enforcement measures focused on the accuracy of importer of record (IOR) information, as part of the implementation of Executive Order 14411, “Strengthening Customs Enforcement.”
The Aug. 19, 2026, Federal Register notice states that CBP is comprehensively reviewing Form 5106 information currently on file for both new and existing importers of record.
Why This Matters
Beginning Sept. 18, 2026, if CBP determines that information associated with an importer of record is inaccurate or incomplete, CBP may immediately void the importer’s IOR number.
A voided IOR number cannot be used for any purpose, including entering imported merchandise into the United States. This could result in significant delays and disruption to an importer’s supply chain until the IOR number is reestablished.
CBP has specifically emphasized the accuracy of the following information:
- Legal importer name and Employer Identification Number (EIN), Social Security number or CBP-assigned number
- Importer’s physical business address (cannot be the address of a customs broker, freight forwarder, registered agent, P.O. box, business service center or unrelated entity)
- Valid, current email address belonging directly to the importer of record
- Valid, current phone number belonging directly to the importer of record
- Mailing address and other required Form 5106 information
CBP has also reiterated that customs brokers submitting Form 5106 information on behalf of an importer must maintain a valid power of attorney executed directly with the importer of record.
