Tuesday, October 5, 2010

October 2010 Customs Broker Exam - Preliminary Answers

Determining potential answers for the broker's exam questions after the test is different in a few key ways from taking the test, but none is more key than the fact that we have more than four hours. That means that we can take the time to research as much as we need to in order to get the most accurate (though still unofficial) document possible to all of you. Our first attempt may have some mistakes, but they will be corrected as new updates are posted. With that said, we're not finished yet -- BUT we do have most of them completed.



Click here for the preliminary unofficial exam answers.


As always, remember that these answers represent only our opinion. The official answers will come from Customs and Border Protection in a few weeks and will be posted on their site. In other words, we probably answered the majority of the questions correctly, but these answers do not guarantee whether or not you've passed; it merely is presented as a helpful tool for broker students who are (quite understandably) eager to have any idea of where they stand.

If you would like to share your answers, explanations and comments, we invite you to post them as comments to this blog; however, we ask that comments be professional and to the point. We cannot respond to all of the comments, but this forum will provide you an opportunity to converse with each other. Remember, we do not have the official answers. You’ll have plenty of time to argue with CBP if you disagree with their answers.

Happy browsing!

P.S. We cannot post the questions because the copy we received had a lot of markings on it.

184 comments:

JB said...

Can you post any ones that you think are protestable? I have a few in mind.

Unknown said...

Hello, I took the exam yesterday and it was my 1st time...Just want to ask you...Dont you think this is the hardest exam ever. I look through the pass 12 exams...there were no one like this time have 28 questions about Classification..

anyway, thanks

Unknown said...

Hope you're right Wizard - by your scores I'm 75% right on the nose!

Anonymous said...

I hope the wizard is right too...I passed by two. I thought a couple of the forms questions were rather obsure and so did some of my licensed broker coworkers.

Anonymous said...

75% right on the dot...ugh

Anonymous said...

Yep, on the unaccompanied merchandise question 21 - I was told that 255 was replaced by Form 3299 so it wasn't even on my sheet. If you look at the CBP website, Form 255 doesn't exist. Challengeable or credit to all?

Boskage said...

Boskage Staff Comments on Exam -
We didn't see any protest questions that jumped out at us, but when we go back over them to create more detailed answers, we might find some then. Our readers will probably start posting some. It's really hard to tell until CBP posts the actual answers. We aren't perfect, so we probably missed a few. :)

The exam was not the hardest one given, but not the easiest either. We'd expect to see a respectable pass rate.

Anonymous said...

According to your answers I missed 9 or 10 and can sleep well tonight. I agree that this wasn't the hardest exam based on the past samples I reviewed in my studies. Some of the classification questions were VERY easy. Thanks for posting and your great study resources that helped many of us pass the exam.

Anonymous said...

Honestly I didn't see any questions that jumped out as protest-able; even though I didn't end up doing all that great - I see where I made my mistakes.

I hope you're right with the answers though... I'm ahead by two, saying they do not end up throwing any out.

Good Luck to everyone!

Anonymous said...

Could the answer to 75 also be D? I referenced 111.91 for this answer which specifies an amount not to exceed $30,000.

Anonymous said...

I checked CBP website and also could not find CBP 255 form... I think it is a good candidate to protest.

Ji said...

Ji

I got 17 wrong....

How about #60? Nov. 26, 2008 to Nov. 27. 2009, isn't it still within a year time frame?

Boskage said...

Boskage Staff Comments on Forms:

As several readers pointed out, the CBP web site does not contain a list of every form used by CBP; however, if the form is listed in the regulations, it is fair game. Please review the CFR parts cited for Questions 21 and 80. Yes, they are obscure.

Anonymous said...

Question 60 - I put E (same as Boskage) because that looks like a year and 1 day to me which is past the deadline. I hope that sticks.

Question 75 - I had a cheatsheet that had 30K listed as the fine so I hope that can be protested. I do see based on the reference where $25,000 is listed as well so not sure.

Anonymous said...

For Question #28, the correct answer is listed as E. According to 192.1, the definition of New vs. Used has to do with the titling of the vehicle; not mentioned in the question language. Possibly D?

Opinions?

Anonymous said...

I don't agree with the answer to 44 as being A. Why is it not B? The item is primarly made out of cotton. Thoughts anyone?

Anonymous said...

I failed by 2 questions base on the preliminary answers, is there still hope?

Unknown said...

Hi!

Yes, for question# 28 it does not define wether the car was used or new, it is understandable that due to the year we should "assume" is a used car... But that car should of been a 1976 model with a bran new engine @ zero miles??? I think it can also be D...but who knows

Anonymous said...

#44 is A due to the HTS code being for wool or fine animal hair and the aggregate of wool and fine animal hair makes up %60 of the content (%30 wool, %30 cashmere (fine animal hair)).

Anonymous said...

Wow!!!!!!!!!base on your answers i'm 77.5% I'm praying that customs match all your answers!!!

Anonymous said...

Wow!!!!!!!!!base on your answers i'm 77.5% I'm praying that customs match all your answers!!!

Anonymous said...

Do not want to be bragging but not many people at my college know what the CBL Exam is so wanted to share here that according to Wizard, got 15 wrong. so yey!

Anonymous said...

Well, I hope that the answers posted here are correct. If so, I got an 85% and I should be good to go when I get the official notice in the mail.

pink76 said...

Can you please confirm that in your opinion question 60 is E. The reason why I ask is because according to LTS, the answer is C for that question and I failed by one point.

Anonymous said...

Thanks! This was exam was easy. I got 90% based on your preliminary Answers.

Anonymous said...

Compare to the exam in April 2010, this one is much easier. If your preliminary answers were all correct, I should get a 85% right.
By the way, for the answer to #34, will you consider A as the right one? E is for the official use of members of the armed
forces of any foreign country on duty in the United
States. But our question says the tanks are for exercises, right?

Anonymous said...

Hi there i am also right on the money @75% still questioning a few ones:

Q6 I chose B, does anyone know of an entry of Toxic substances in bulk made with other than a 7501 / entry summary?

Q21 I chose A by elimination; all other forms listed are not for "the declaration of unaccompanied articles"

Q60 I chose C the 1 year expiration deadline is not passed yet. Nov 26 08 start counting on Nov 27 08 thus you have until Nov 27 09 inclusive to submit the NAFTA DF claim

Q75 I chose D @$30K fine but now I do see the $25K verbiage. Very sneaky answer

this is my 2nd time around hope it's the final one!

Good luck to everyone.

Anonymous said...

Question 61: I feel this not necessary a fraudulent violations. I actually though it was a grossly negligent based on CUSTOMS DIRECTIVE NO. 4410-013 "commission or omissions done with actual knowledge of or wanton disregard for
the relevant facts and with indifference to or disregard for the offender's
obligations under the statute."

Any thoughts?

Anonymous said...

Orig: Q6 I chose B, does anyone know of an entry of Toxic substances in bulk made with other than a 7501 / entry summary?

My Ans: It really is not relevant of how an entry is filed at a particular POE or time period; the exam is written against the CFR. I have had experience with several instances where CBP has requested a copy of the TSCA prior to releasing a bulk shipment... Per (what i believe to be, I do not have my CFR open) 12.121(a)(2) the TSCA is due before the release of the shipment... D is correct.

Orig: Q75 I chose D @$30K fine but now I do see the $25K verbiage. Very sneaky answer

My Ans: I answered the same and am kicking myself for it. Honestly, Q79 points to the same citation for the correct answer and I should have caught the similarity rather than go from memory. Rookie mistake.

I answered 62 correct based on these answers and I'm hoping CBP posts similar answers and maybe throws a few out.

Unknown said...

I am really hoping they throw out 13 and 28.

13 just has to many if factors... Boca is not a port, Misdelivery issues, etc.

28 is flat out unfair. How am I supposed to know a Unimog is a multi-person Tractor? Also, there is not enough info in the question to determine whether its used or new

Anonymous said...

I'm with you on 13 and 38. I felt both needed way more information to come up with an accurate answer. Does anyone know when customs announces which ones, if any, they are throwing out? Do you have to wait until the official letter 6 weeks from now?

Anonymous said...

Sorry, meant 28 not 38

Boskage said...

Boskage Staff Comments on Q28

Agree - Credit should be given for both D and E. Should we take bets on whether CBP grants our wish?

Boskage said...

Boskage Staff Comments on CBP Answers -

The answers to the exam are usually posted before the letters go out. When the answers are posted to the CBP web site, they will identify questions that were thrown out and credit given to all.

Anonymous said...

Generally speaking, when does CBP post their answers to the website?

Anonymous said...

CBP will post the corrected answers first on its website and when would that be? Is it on Oct 14th?

Anonymous said...

The April exam was on the 6th of this year and customs posted the answers for that on April 18, about 22 days after the exam. I would assume they would be up for the October 2010 exam around October 25th

Anonymous said...

Oops, I meant CBP posted the April answers on April 28 not 18th. Sorry!

Anonymous said...

I'm also hoping you're correct. According to your answers, I got 76.25%. According to LTS, I got 73.75%. This suspense is KILLING me.

Unknown said...

What do you guys think about #63? Wizard posted "A" as answer found on Citation 162.73. Dont you guys think the question is not specific? Its very general since 162.73(a)says the following: Not exceed (1)For fraudulent violations, the domestic value of the merchandise;(2)For grossly negligent violations,(i) The lesser of the domestic value of the merchandise or four times the loss of duties, taxes and fees or (ii)If there is no loss of duties, taxes and fees 40 percent of the dutiable value of the merchandise; and(3)For negligent violations, (i) The lesser of the domestic value of the merchandise or two times the loss of duties, taxes and fees or (ii) If there is no loss of duties, taxes and fees 20 percent of the dutiable value of the merchandise.

Anonymous said...

Q21-I checked CBP website and couldn't find Form 255. Is it replaced by Form 3299? I think it is protestable...

Anonymous said...

Q40 answer is E not C, decorated with ribbon-like effects and just above the tempered type which effectively makes E the not tempered kind.

Any thoughts?

Anonymous said...

I agreed with you about Q63. The question is not specific based on the citation of 162.73. I hope the result will be credit to all...

Anonymous said...

What is LTS and where can I find their preliminary answers?

Anonymous said...

I failed by one point! Any hope for me?

I'm so depress and cannot even stop thinking about this missing 1 point. It's hard for this feeling. It would be better if I failed 5 or 10 points.

I hate this feel!

Anonymous said...

Boskage shares their preliminary answers with everyone. You don't have to take their course to see the answers. Does LTS only share their answers with people who paid for their course?

Thank you Boskage :)

Anonymous said...

Perhaps, I'm missing something here for Que.68. Why the fee of $75 for transportation to the warehouse is deducted from $5,000?

Also, for Que 69, the asnwer is A, (Packing cost s incurred by the buyer) is not specific enough to be considere as an assit. The packing might have been completed in the US, in which case the cost then not an assit.
Any thoughts?

Anonymous said...

I found something strange on Q#60
On 19 CFR 181.31 say “within one year after the date of importation of the good”
Base on 19CFR 181.31 Nov 26, 08 start counting on Nov 27, 08 so Nov 27, 09 ’s in time frame.

But on Directive 3550-070 say “but no later than 1 year from the date of importation”
See http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/legal/directives/
Base on 3550-070 Nov 26, 08 start counting from Nov 26, 08, so Nov 27, 09’s out of time frame.

So boths should be correct ether C or E. Let wait and see what CBP say, but many people will appeal on this.

Anonymous said...

I do agree with you on Q60. Thank you for your further investigation. It's very tricky to distinguish within/not later than a year. That was a very good point. C & E should be correct!

Anonymous said...

Regarding Q60, I totally agree with you. Thank you for your further investigation! Both C&E should be credited.

tony said...

I have queston about #61,I think if a importer claim for the prior disclosure case when the entries were liquidated,the monetary penalty for importer should also include the interest due too,am i right?I hope the answer is D.Anyone agree with me?

Tony said...

Question 60,I think C will be the best answer because in CFR181 said if you want to claim post importation,you should file it within one year from the date of importation.The period from Nov26,2008 to Nov27,2009 is not one year yet,because in Febuarary 2009 only have 28 days.the claim should be allowed and it does originate."C" will be the best answer.

Tony said...

Question 44 I chose "B",I think it should be cotton.Because it made of 40%cotton,30%wool,and 30% cashmere.cashmere is fine animal hair.wool and fine animal hair are different.

Anonymous said...

#60 I look at Directive 3550-070 (5) and (5.4) on CBP website. It's paradox in their sentense and explaination.

(5) "no later than 1 year from the date of importation"
(5.4) "no later than 1 year from the date of importation" and add "Note: The clock for the 1 year period starts on the day following the date of importation"

(5) and 1st quote in (5.4) They're very clear that count from the date of importation.

Second quote explain NOT to count from the date of importation.

This is totally paradox? Do anyone think can this question be appealed?

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
"Q40 answer is E not C, decorated with ribbon-like effects and just above the tempered type which effectively makes E the not tempered kind."

I agree!

Ref: GRI 3(a) certainly SEEMS to apply here.

Anonymous said...

Question 28 is flat out unfair?

1976 vs. 2010?

I'd opine that the CBP will call this Item a 'USED' one - and thus answer E applies (clearly a USED Item in the HTS).

Anonymous said...

More arguments to add for #60

From CBP Website:
"Generally, NAFTA claims are made at the time of importation. However, NAFTA allows for a NAFTA claim to be made by the importer within one year from the date of importation."
See http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/trade_programs/international_agreements/free_trade/nafta/post_importation/

And when you click on the "Post-Importation NAFTA Claims - Information Notice" link

You will see its clearly state that "NAFTA claim must be filed within one year from the date of importation of the merchandise." with the exception if importer did not possess a NAFTA Certificate of Origin(CO) at the time of entry summary they may file the claim "within 1 year after the date of importation."

See http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/trade_programs/international_agreements/free_trade/nafta/post_importation/post_importation.xml

The question#60 don't say whether the importer did or didn't possess a CO at the time of entry summary.

So I believe this can be appeal by the statment of fact above. Answers can be "C" or "E"

*Sorry for the long post, but I just want to show my opinion which it may help our freind in the appeal process.

Jenee said...

In regards to 60

if you think of a year in time wise on a normal calendar it is Jan 1st through Dec. 31. So, with that in mind, regardless of starting your count on the Nov. 26th 2008 (last day to file would then be the November 25th 2009) or Nov 27th 2008 (your last possible day file would be November 26th, 2009)

Either day you start your count on its to late.

Any thoughts on my way of thinking?

Potter said...

#60 is sneaky but I found the confirmation what CBP would think of this question.

Old test on Oct 4, 2008 Question#63, the CBP answer key is "D. one year from the date of importation" PERIOD.

So hope everyone clear and the correct answer#60 should be E.

Now wait for CBP.

Jenee said...

tony in reference to#61

by the definition in 171 appendix b under 1592 i beleave it is fraud

the citation 162.72 says that fraud with prior disclosure is

1x duties taxes and fees...

the question is, is interest a fee... i thought so but am questioning it now...

Anonymous said...

These are some basic ones.

#5. Please note that the question asked for the ultimate consignee for this entry. It did not state at the time of entry, release or entry summary. Credit should be given to both D and E based on info in CD 3550-079A (at time of entry or release) and 7501 instructions (at entry summary).

#41 Credit to all. Answer C would be correct. However, it stated "Classify the skirt and suit under 6204.19.2000". It should state the skirt and jacket.

#75 Credit should be given to both C and D. C is per 171 Appendix and D per 111.91

Anonymous said...

Agree on #75 answer should be both C & D.

CFR 111.91(a) which refer to 111.53(e) are very clear for D.

I answer D and this will make the case for appeal. Thank you.

Anonymous said...

Question 40.

Refer to the CBB Informed Compliance Publication found at:

http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/trade/legal/informed_compliance_pubs/icp056.ctt/icp056.pdf

I know it's not an Exam Reference Source...but this Publication addresses this matter PRCISELY...and thus Answer "E" is the correct one for this question!

Anonymous said...

Regarding Q75, Part 171 Appendix C - VII. Section 1641(d)(1)(E)-Knowingly Employing or Continuing To Employ Any Person Who Has Been Convicted of a Felony, Without Written Approval of Such Employment From the Secretary of the Treasury

C. A $25,000 penalty for knowingly employing any convicted felon without seeking approval for employment.

I guess this statement is very clear. The answer should be C.

Anonymous said...

Agree on Q41, credit to all. The answer should be C. However, the statement is wrong: Classify SKIRT and SUIT under 6204.19.2000. The statement should be "Classify SKIRT and JACKET under 6204.19.2000."

Anonymous said...

Regarding Q#75

111.91 (a)”In the case of a broker, in an amount not to exceed an aggregate of $30,000 for one or more of the reasons set forth in 111.53 (a) through (f) other than those listed in 111.53(b)(3), and provided that no license or permit suspension or revocation proceeding has been instituted against the broker under subpart D of this part for any of the same”

111.53 (e) “The broker has knowingly employed, or continues to employ, any person who has been convicted of a felony, without written approval of that employment from the Assistant Commissioner”

So the answer is D also.
I think this question will be both C and D, since C is also correct.

jen said...

question 13
has a miss spelling in it. i wonder if that would qualify for dismissal of the question they say "Bonded are house" instead of "bonded ware house" what do you guys think?

Anonymous said...

I missed 30 questions
Base on your answer. Do I atill have any chance?

Anonymous said...

Any more comments on Q60? I also agree C is the right anwers.

All deadlines for due dates start to count from the next day of when the matter or notice is issued. example: A notice received on Oct 13 ywith 30 days to reply th 30 day count starts Oct 14 as Oct 13 is "day zero" not "day one"

Depending on CBP's answer this one can be protestable.

Anonymous said...

regarding question 60 there is state very clear
1 year from the date of importation
answer E is correct answer

Anonymous said...

Don't you know that CBP is having a great time reading all of these comments about the exam!

Anonymous said...

For question 11, the only correct answer I see is E. Otherwise there are not correct answer.

Anonymous said...

Q34. I answered A - 8710.00.00 as the question does not state italy was on a reciprocal basis therefore I'm still not getting why E is the correct answer. Any thoughts?

Anonymous said...

Q60 - I feel this question should grant credit to all answers. The question state the yarn was 95% cotton, 5% nylon nonetheless it was classified as 5% nylon? I understand the main part is the dates but I feel the entire question should have been worded correctly

Anonymous said...

RE: Question 11
The correct answer is D.
It is very clear in the Bond Direcive 3510-004, page 5 - d.

Anonymous said...

RE: Question 75
It is very clearthat the correct answer is D -$25,000.
look at 171 (app C) VII, C

Deb T said...

Q34. I answered A - 8710.00.00 as the question does not state italy was on a reciprocal basis therefore I'm still not getting why E is the correct answer. Any thoughts?
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I keep seeing this reference to reciprocal basis for Q34. What does what reciprocal have to do with how the tanks are imported?

Anonymous said...

Question 11
"When the bond is for a temporary importation, the bond
limit of liability amount shall be fixed in an amount the district director may deem
necessary to protect the revenue, but not less than an amount equal to double the
duties which it is estimated would accrue had all the articles covered by the entry
been entered under an ordinary consumption entry. In the case of samples solely
for use in taking orders, motion picture advertising films, professional equipment,
tools of trade, and repair components for professional equipment and tools of
trade, the bond limit of liability amount shall be 110 percent of the estimated
duties. Taxes and special duties (for example, IR taxes, anti dumping and
countervailing duties, etc.) shall be taken into account in all computations. If the
commodity would otherwise e free of duty, the bond liability amount shall include
one times the merchandise processing fee or $100, whichever is greater"

Anonymous said...

Has there been any mention of pass rate percentage yet?

Anonymous said...

When will CBP post the answers?

Anonymous said...

Any update as to when CBP will post the answers? Also, does anyone have an exact link to the answer site? Thanks

Boskage said...

Boskage Staff provides general comments:

We are aware many of you are anxious to find out if you passed the exam. We do not know when CBP will post the answers - let's hope it is soon.

As mentioned in the original posting, we do not have all of the answers and cannot provide commentary on all of the questions posted here. Please feel free to read all of the comments posted by others, as they may provide the answer you are seeking. For those who purchased the CBE study program from Boskage, detailed exam commentary will be available for you shortly after CBP posts the final answers.

Anonymous said...

What is taking Customs so long to post the answers? Generally, once the answers are posted, it means the letters went out.....the suspense is killing me!!! :)

Anonymous said...

Word on the street is CBP had an "internal" problem with the tests and everything is delayed. Also, #70 appears to be credited to everyone.

Anonymous said...

Seriously. Why is Customs taking sooooo long to post the answer key, and mail out our scores. For real!

Anonymous said...

How many days after the exam do they usually take to post the answers?

Anonymous said...

This is the longest it's taken to post the answers since Oct 2007 when it took 58 days (according to the posting date on the CBP website). 4/10 - 22 days 10/09 - 25 days 4/09 - 30 days

Anonymous said...

"Also, #70 appears to be credited to everyone."

What was the question for q70?

Anonymous said...

Maybe this is a good thing that there taking longer to post the answers?

Maybe it means they found a lot of pro-testable questions or bad worded questions? If thats the case, maybe they will have more questions with multiple answers than usual? I hope this is true, because going by the preliminary answers I got 22 wrong. Hopefully 2 of them are thrown out, or have more than 1 answer.

You think they will give credit to a question that had a misspelled word in it?

Anonymous said...

I don't think this exam has a lot of "protestable" questions. They where all pretty straight forward for the most part. This was one of the easiest exams they have had in a while.

Anonymous said...

It's not normal for CBP to take more than a month to post the answers. It must have some big concern on the test(Not only 1 or 2 questions). I believe it will have many appealable questions.

Anonymous said...

if this test considering the easiest maybe custom now trying do something to make the pass rate as low as possible

Anonymous said...

That I do agree with. I think the passign rate for this exam will be pretty high.

Anonymous said...

Can we call our customs office at our ports and ask them when we should expect the answers should be posted?

Maybe they can tell us if its this week, next week, etc?

Anonymous said...

Where exactly are they going to post the exam answers online? Will they have a link specific for this exam? Or do we have to go in to the general exam key downloads and search for the October 2010 exam questions/results?

Anonymous said...

I just called my Customs Unit Office at my local port, and they don't know when they will send the results ither. They didn't even know if they would post them online, or what.

CBP works in mysterious ways yes?

I called the one in Miami, perhaps you guys should try your CBP office and see what they say.

Anonymous said...

I just called Long Beach Port and they say they haven't receive any notification from HQ neither.

Anonymous said...

I called the OPM and they said they had problems with the scanning machine.

Anonymous said...

Did they say when to expect results?

Anonymous said...

My contact at my District Port called me with my results today. I would guess we should be seeing them shortly!

P.S. I passed!

Anonymous said...

Someone please call:

Anita Harris, Chief Broker Compliance (202) 863-6069

This is the group reponsible for the Exam.

Anonymous said...

Per Anita's comment, they just got score results this Wed. answers will be posted early next week on website. Also pass result will be send at the same time. So later next week, we'd know.

Anonymous said...

I called and still no result for my port......

Anonymous said...

The staff from LTS has emailed and informed us that the pass rate for this test is 29%. She doesn't know when the results will be posted though.

Thats goods news

Anonymous said...

I called Long beach port they got the result. I missed by 3 questions even I got 60 correct with the Preliminary answer

Anonymous said...

I called my Port, they got the results late Wednesday. I passed!!! Now just to wait for the offical letter from D.C.

Anonymous said...

Someone from the Charlotte port called to inform me that I have passed. Good luck everyone else.

Anonymous said...

My port called me, at work, and told me they received the results from HQ Wed. and letters are going out today. She would not tell me my results over the phone.

Anonymous said...

I called and I PASSED!!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

I called the port where I took the exam this morning and they had just received the results. They were happy to convey them over the phone.

Boskage said...

Boskage Staff on Pass List

We had a comment containing a link to a list of people passing the customs broker exam; however, that list was from the Philippines. We didn't want anyone to get too excited over the list. There is another link about the Philippines exam that is kind of interesting. They received results in two days!

http://www.prc.gov.ph/articles.asp?sid=4&aid=3925

Anonymous said...

Port of Detroit isnt forthcoming with information. According to them, they haven't received information or scores yet.

Anonymous said...

How does it work with the appeal process. If there is a question that is given credit to all or for multiple questions, are those questions already determined and notified when the results are sent out. Or does CBP take into account each person's appeal and then send out a revised list of answers? This is my first time taking the exam so I am a bit unclear as to how it works...

Anonymous said...

2 days!!! How nice. I wonder what their exam looks like. they all had a pretty high passing rate.

Anonymous said...

I called the number posted to Anita Harris and she was more than happy to give me my score. She was very accommodating. I passed as well! :)

Anonymous said...

I just tried calling Cleveland and the supervisor informed me that they will not provide that information over the phone but that we would be receiving our mailings this week.

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

My port (Detroit) said that they just received the results today (11/15). She told me that I passed and the official letter should be out within the next few days.

Anonymous said...

I've just got off the phone with the Cleveland office and they said they don't know when the result will be mailed out not do they have received the result from HQ.

Anonymous said...

ANSWERS ARE NOW POSTED ON CUSTOMS WEBSITE, I PASSED !!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

i went to customs in the port of NY as asked if they could give me my result. I showed my ID and received the result......


I passed!!!!!Had a huge outburst when they told me i passed..yesssssss

Boskage said...

The wait is over! Congratulations to all who passed! We passed too, but missed 13, 36 and 60.

For those considering a protest, be sure to read the comments posted by some of your colleagues. They may have some suggestions for good protest questions. Due to the volume of comments, we will not be able to answer individual questions about what might be protestable.

Anonymous said...

#36 on CBP website says the answer is C but shows the tariff number listed for E!

Anonymous said...

Question 36 on the Exam. The answer is showing C on the answer sheet. But the HTS # they provide as the correct answer is E. Number 36 should be E.

Anonymous said...

#36 on CBP website answer key says the answer is C but lists 6913.90.5000 which was the answer for E!!

Anonymous said...

Question #60, almost everyone I've questioned said the correct answer is E. Not allowed because Nov. 27th, 2009 is one year after the date of importation per section 181.31. I was hoping someone can explain why E is not the correct answer ? Also...if the argument is the 1 year date is 365 days after Nov. 26th....I thought Feb. 2009 was a leap year ? If it was a leap year...E would be correct as well on that argument. I'm not asked to bring a calender to the exam. Can I be penalized on getting the leap year wrong in 2009. Turns out 2008 was the leap year.

Anonymous said...

I passed but ONLY if I win my Protest as follows:

Question 36:

Indeed, the correct answer to Question 36 is: HTSUSA 6913.90.5000 but this is, however, Answer “E” (the answer I actually chose) and NOT Answer “C” - as indicated on the Answer Key posted to the CBP Website on 11/15/2010.

Note: Answer “C” (HTSUSA 6913.10.5000) cannot be correct as it involves “Statues, statuettes and handmade flowers, valued over $2.50 each….” The Items in Question 36 are valued at “$2.00 each”.

Anonymous said...

Boskage, what was the passing rate for this exam?

Anonymous said...

Take a look at #36 it may be that there is a typo on the Customs answer sheet for #36. It cites 6913.90.5000, GRI 1 for the answer but lists C, which was 6913.10.5000 as the answer. I left a message at CBP HQ about this.

Anonymous said...

There is an error on the answer key. Question #36 says C is the answer, the citation HTS they gave is for answer E.

Anonymous said...

Did anyone get their offical letter yet?

Anonymous said...

Still no letter....: ((((

But more importantly....BOSKAGE.....will CBP Update their Answer Key with the FINAL (AFTER all the Protests have been ruled - upon) CORRECT Answers to the Exam? How will we all know that the Answer Key on the CBP Website is the "Final" Version?

Boskage said...

Boskage comments on CBP Answers:

If CBP made a mistake on the answer sheet, they will likely post a revision.

CBP will not update the answer sheet after they review protests. Just because they approve a protest does not make the initial answer incorrect. When CBP approves a protest, it just means that someone presented a convincing case that there is another answer that could also be correct and CBP agrees with the arguments. That information has not been posted in the past.

Anonymous said...

How likely is it to get credit for a question you protest?

Does CBP have an open mind about protests, or are you unlikely to persuade them that you got it right?

Anonymous said...

Does anyone happen to know how long it typically takes for Customs to rule on an appeal?

Anonymous said...

is anyone planning to appeal question # 13 and 40? Maybe we can work together

Anonymous said...

For #36
The correct answer must be “E” as per CBP citation “6913.90.5000”

The answer “C” 6913.10.5000 is for Porcelain or China, not for Earthenware.

Wish the error is just typo on the answer key. If not, it will be big mess on everyone scores and appeals.

This test should be easier than the pasts, but it’s most messy, too.

Anonymous said...

Has anyone in the Chicago port either received a call from CBP or received their official letter yet?

Anonymous said...

Has anyone in Miami received an official letter from CBP?

Anonymous said...

Still have not received official score in the port of cleveland...

Has anyone actually received the office result in the mail?

Anonymous said...

I'm too, waiting for CBP Chicago. As of today 11/18, No official letter, no calls.

Jenee said...

I CALLED CHICAGO AND SPOKE WITH TERRY SMITH, SHE SAID SHE HAD AN OVERWHELMING AMOUNT OF CALLS AND SHE HAS NO IDEA ABOUT THE WHEN WE WILL FIND OUT, I HAVE NOT RECEIVED MY LETTER YET

Anonymous said...

Milwaukee port called me last Friday (11/12) to let me know they received the results in HQ, but would not disclose scores over the phone. They stated letters went in the mail that Friday. I have still not received my letter. Has anyone received their letter????

Anonymous said...

I am in Cleveland and still haven't received my letter. I gave Customs a call at the number provided on the instructions and they say the letters were mailed out this week and we should get them in the next couple days.

Anonymous said...

I received my score last Saturday, the 20th. I did pretty well cosidering that it was my first time...Got 70% = Missed 4 questions.

Anonymous said...

I am from Miami and I have recieved my letter in the mail today (Monday 11/22/2010).

I failed though, missed it by 3 (2 if you don't count the #36 messup). this was my 1st time taking it.

I'm going to try and protest some answers.

Anonymous said...

Something else is off, because according to the answers posted by customs I got one more answer right than what my official letter states. Guess I will be protesting too.

Anonymous said...

I got letter fromm Chicago port today. I got 73.75% or miss 1 question. I'm look for #36 whether CBP key is C or E. My answer is E and if it come out I missed this question. I need to appeal.

Have anyone got the answer key and your answer sheet back yet? If so, please help let me know what #36 say on the your CBP answer sheet? E or C?

Boskage said...

Boskage Staff comments on Q36

We selected Answer E too. The question clearly states that the goods are unglazed ceramic vases. The HTS provided for Answer C is for porcelain. On the CBP answer sheet, they cite 6913.90.5000, which is the answer under E.

Here is the information we used in coming to our conclusion that Answer Option E was correct.

Answers A, B and C should be eliminated because all three fall under the heading for porcelain or china. The question states that the vase is ceramic/earthenware. To determine the correct answer between D and E, it's important to know how to read the description in 6913.90.3000. "Whether or not decorated" stands on its own - just one part of several phrases included in the description. If you take that portion of the list out, you have "of earthenware having a reddish colored body and a lustrous glaze." Our vase is not glazed, which means Answer E is the best option.

Anonymous said...

I took the exam in Dallas and got my letter on Monday 11/20 and PASSED!!!! DFW Port was unable to disclose results over the phone all last week.

Good luck everyone

Anonymous said...

I’m from LA and I’ve received my letter yesterday (Monday 11/22/10)
It was my first time and I got 87.5%!!!
According to the letter, I should receive application package w/ my answer sheet in mail soon.
I hope I receive it before Christmas.

Anonymous said...

I got the letter from CBP Long beach! 71.25% = missed 3 questions. So i went back to double check the answer sheet with my booklet I only had 22 wrong even included the messed up Q#36.

this exam definitely the messiest one

I wondering if HQ will recall the exam back to double verify. in case they give credit to those contestant not supposed to pass like the question 36

Anonymous said...

Does anyone have a clue as to what is involved or looked at in the background check?

Anonymous said...

Boskage, what was the passing rate for this exam?

Anonymous said...

Boksage = What is your take on question #60. I got it wrong as well. Was certain E was the correct answer. I posted the earlier comments below. Hoping you can help advise why this was not a correct answer ??

Earlier post:

Question #60, almost everyone I've questioned said the correct answer is E. Not allowed because Nov. 27th, 2009 is one year after the date of importation per section 181.31. I was hoping someone can explain why E is not the correct answer ? Also...if the argument is the 1 year date is 365 days after Nov. 26th....I thought Feb. 2009 was a leap year ? If it was a leap year...E would be correct as well on that argument. I'm not asked to bring a calender to the exam. Can I be penalized on getting the leap year wrong in 2009. Turns out 2008 was the leap year.

Anonymous said...

When will the detailed exam commentary be added to the CBE study program?

Anonymous said...

Who do I call if I don't receive my answer key sheet? Took test in NY City.

Boskage said...

Boskage comments on Exam Commentary -

The detailed exam commentary should be ready by the end of the week for those who purchased the exam course from Boskage.

Anonymous said...

Congratulations to all the ones that passed the test!
Can you guys share the method of study that you used. I took the test for the first time on October and have no experience at all in this field. My score was 70%.
Thank you. I sincerely appreciate your comments.

Anonymous said...

Q36 - HTS should be 6913.90.5000 which is letter E. The answer key shows the answer as letter C which is wrong. I am definitely protesting this one.
Q60 - this question is not even worded correctly. They don't mention exactly whether the fiber content is weight or the percentage!!! De-Minimis rule applies by the total weight of the component, however this question doesn't even mention anything about the weight. It just says percentage. Another point with this question is that the date is outside of the time frame to file the refund claim, it's like a blanket period on a NAFTA COO can not be more than 1 year (example:01/01/2009 - 01/01/2010) because that will make it a year plus a day - which means the claim would have had to take place by November 25th, 2009 (within one year). The answer for this question should definitely be letter E. I would definitely protest for this question.
With these two questions, I will have the passing score. Good luck to everybody!!!

Anonymous said...

Has anyone received their scantron yet?

Anonymous said...

Just got off the phone with Anita Harris at Customs and she said that the scantrons have not been sent out yet. They're in the process of sending it out now.

Anonymous said...

I too spoke on the phone with Anita Harris at Customs today (12/7/2010) and she said that the scantrons have not been sent out yet. She is following up with OPM to see if they can be sent out ASAP.

Anonymous said...

I received my scantron back from OPM yesterday. I passed with a 90, but believe that's due to studying 6-8 hours/week for 4 months and taking 8 practice exams the two weeks prior to the exam. Merry Christmas to all and good luck to those retaking the exam in Apr11!

Anonymous said...

Until today 12/14, I've not seen my answer sheet copy yet. I'm waiting the copy for accompany with my appeal question #36. I missed only 1 question, and on #36 my answer is E (Which I certainly believe, it's the only best answer).

I could not imagine how many people will appeal on this single question!

Anonymous said...

I received my Exam Answer Sheet in the mail just yesterday (12/13/2010) and mailed my Exam Protest (Questions 28, 36, 40 and 61) off today - 12/14/2010.

I really only need a positive CBP response on Question 36 to pass...and I STRONGLY suggest that EVERYONE who needs Question 36 to pass to lodge a protest. The CBP Answer Key for this question is WRONG. It should be answer "E" (not "C").

Anonymous said...

I'm from Miami, FL and I received my scantron on December 14th.
I'm wondering what was the passing rate this time...

Anonymous said...

Has anybody who took the exam at the port of New York received their letter? I still have not received mine.

Anonymous said...

I protested 36 & 60 today.mo

Anonymous said...

Hate to burst everyone's bubble about #60, but Customs is correct. In the question, date of importation is 11/26/08. When counting 1 year, you start with the day after the date of importation, so 11/27/08 is day 1. Day 365 is 11/26/09. The claim was filed 11/27/09, so we think it’s a day late. However, 11/26/09 was Thanksgiving Day. If day 365 falls on a Sunday or holiday, then the next working day will be considered timely. Here’s the ruling that supports this – HQ 227879.

Anonymous said...

Any thoughts on an appeal for #13?

Anonymous said...

Today, I jest mailed out my appeal(for #36, my answer E). I feel it should be 100% E, but I'm not sure why CBP come up with C.

Anyone who think C is correct answer please explain and give me some light.

Anonymous said...

I'm looking for some help on Questin 40. Is anyone protesting and what are you using for support? Thanks

Anonymous said...

I'm also looking to appeal Q.40 and Q.13
anyone who has these two to appeal?? I 'm late to review my exam and realized I should prepare with a very good answer for these two questions. I strongly believe Q.40 should'd been D and for Q.13 it should be A. Is any one there who would like to work together on these two questions. Please let me know, before we run out of time.

Anonymous said...

Hi, I passed the exam and looking for a job. This is an entirely new field and I only see jobs for experienced brokers. Can someone advise me where to look for a beginner like me?

Anonymous said...

Hi I protested my exam, would like to know who I call if I dont receive my protest results.

Anonymous said...

any idea on how long it takes for the appeal ruling to come back? anyone already get a response? are they planning to tell us before the deadline for the next exam?

Anonymous said...

Does anyone know when I should expect my October 2010 protest results?

Anonymous said...

Just received word from US Customs in Washington.
Credit will be given to all that protested #36.

Anonymous said...

Today 03/03, I got a call from CBP that my appeal was approved. So I passed. They will mail out the formal letter in this week.

Anonymous said...

Have anyone get feedback from CBP regarding the appeal?

As of now 03/18, I have not get response from CBP and still waiting.

Anonymous said...

I PASSED, THEY GAVE ME CREDIT FOR #36 YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!

Anonymous said...

I received my protest result last week. I passed. All I needed was question #36 to pass.

Good luck to everyone.

Anonymous said...

I too got credit for Question 36 and passed!