RICK HAOLUN DING

Rick Haolun Ding is a federally licensed U.S. customs broker operating out of Ontario, California, with CBP filer code 8X6. Ontario sits at the heart of the Inland Empire, one of the most logistics-intensive regions in the country, owing to its direct connection to the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach — the primary entry points for Asian imports into the United States. This geographic position makes Rick a relevant resource for importers managing high-volume container freight, e-commerce shipments, and general merchandise arriving from China, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia.

For importers navigating the CBP entry process, understanding the difference between formal and informal entry customs is essential. Informal entries typically apply to shipments valued under $2,500, while formal entries are required for higher-value commercial shipments and involve more rigorous documentation. Rick, as a licensed broker, can prepare and file both entry types and help importers understand importer of record requirements — including who bears legal responsibility for duties, fees, and compliance at the time of importation.

ISF 10+2 filing — also known as Importer Security Filing — is a mandatory pre-shipment requirement for ocean freight entering U.S. ports. Failure to file ISF on time can result in CBP penalties and cargo holds. Rick can assist importers in meeting these filing obligations accurately and on schedule, helping avoid costly delays at the port.

Beyond entry filing, importers in Ontario and the surrounding region frequently deal with questions around HTS code classification, including how to identify the correct 10-digit HTS code for their products versus the Schedule B number used for exports. Proper classification directly affects the duty rate assessed at entry and compliance with partner government agencies such as the FDA, USDA, and EPA.

For importers interested in recovering previously paid duties, Rick can provide guidance on duty drawback programs — including manufacturing drawback and unused merchandise drawback — which allow eligible importers to reclaim duties on goods that are subsequently exported or destroyed. Additionally, importers managing recurring shipments may benefit from a continuous customs bond rather than a single entry bond, providing ongoing coverage for multiple entries throughout the year.

With the growth of e-commerce imports, Section 321 de minimis provisions — which allow goods valued at $800 or less to enter duty-free — have become an increasingly important compliance consideration. Rick's proximity to major Southern California freight infrastructure makes him a practical contact for importers looking for a licensed customs broker near Ontario, the LA/Long Beach port area, or anywhere in the greater Inland Empire.