• Learn more about your sources
Compliance with 10 + 2 will require more knowledge about what happens at the point of origin than many importers currently have. If you aren’t fully familiar with your supply and manufacturing base, this is a good time to verify that the information you have is current, he says. Even if you buy from overseas distributors, find out what you can about the chain of custody prior to the point where you take control.
 
• Classify products as early as possible and share the information with your supply chain partners
Including the classification on the purchase order is an effective way to accomplish that. One of the most helpful steps you can take is to establish a classification database that trusted brokers, forwarders, and suppliers can access. The aim is to assure accurate, consistent data throughout every import transaction.

• Reconsider your terms of sale
If you’re buying under Incoterms that leave control in suppliers’ hands, you could have trouble getting data on transactions that fall outside of your contractual responsibility. Under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), for example, the seller controls every step right through customs clearance and duty payment, yet the U.S. importer will be held responsible for information it may never have been privy to. Under such circumstances it may be advisable to change relationships or let someone else be responsible. For example, some large importers might shift to FOB (Free On Board) terms to gain more control and visibility, while smaller ones might buy through distributors rather than be the importer of record.