Global CFS If your cargo is selected for an intensive examination, it won’t be inspected at the port—it will be sent to a Centralized Examination Station (CES).
A CES is a private facility authorized and supervised by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to perform detailed cargo inspections that can’t be done at the port. For importers, it’s essential to know what this means, why your shipment might be selected, and how to minimize the impact.
At Global CFS, we operate one of the nation’s most experienced CES facilities—purpose-built for secure, efficient CBP cargo examinations. Here’s what you need to know:
What Is an Intensive Exam?
- A more thorough, physical inspection of your cargo.
- Conducted at a CES—not at the port or rail ramp.
- CBP officers physically open cartons and inspect contents.
- Usually triggered by risk flags, random selection, or anomalies in non-intrusive exams (like VACIS or X-ray scans).
The Real Costs of an Intensive Exam
Importers are financially responsible for:
- Drayage (transporting the container from the port to the CES)
- Storage and handling while your goods are held
- Labor to unload, examine, and reload the container
These costs can add up—especially during peak season or if queues at the CES are long.
Timeline and Delays
- Exams can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
- Timing depends on the CES backlog, exam complexity, and CBP availability.
- Delays can impact downstream distribution, warehouse appointments, and final-mile delivery.
How to Prepare Your Shipment
- Get your paperwork right. Ensure descriptions, values, and documents are complete and accurate.
- Expect the unexpected—budget for potential exam costs in advance.
- Communicate proactively. Stay in close contact with your customs broker and be prepared to provide documentation as needed.
- Prioritize compliance. A clean track record helps reduce the frequency of future inspections.
- Consider C-TPAT certification. Certified companies may receive priority processing at the CES.
Why Global CFS?
- Designated CES facilities near major ports like Long Beach, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
- Over 40 years of experience handling complex import exams and freight flows.
- Secure, bonded warehouses with on-site exam space and technology.
- Integrated services, including transloading, deconsolidation, and warehousing.
- Dedicated support team coordinating with CBP and your broker to reduce delays.
“In 1984, the House Ways and Means Committee selected Global CFS, based on compliance, to conduct a one year pilot program. After that, in 1985, we were awarded CES #1. We are the first exam site in the nation. We set the bar and we remain ahead of the curve to this day.” — Steve Panzarella, President, Global CFS
Get Ahead of the Exam—Before Your Shipment Gets Flagged
Delays and costs don’t have to catch you off guard. With Global CFS, your cargo is in the hands of experienced professionals from port to final clearance.
Connect with our team to plan smarter and move faster—even when Customs takes a closer look.
