For how many years must records be maintained from the date of entry?

The correct duration for maintaining records from the date of entry is five years, which aligns with the requirements set by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These records are essential for verifying compliance with customs laws and regulations, and they provide necessary documentation in case of an audit or inquiry regarding imported goods.

Maintaining records for five years ensures that customs authorities can inspect and validate transactions, assess duties, and enforce compliance with various trade laws. This period allows sufficient time for audits and investigations to occur, given that many customs determinations and the potential for duty assessments may arise from activities during that timeframe.

In certain situations, specific circumstances may require maintaining records for a longer duration, such as in cases of fraud or willful misrepresentation, but the standard requirement is five years. This knowledge is crucial for customs compliance and effective record-keeping practices in the import/export industry.