What is the maximum time allowed for exporting articles under a TIB?

When exporting articles under a Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB), the maximum time allowed is indeed three years. This provision is designed to facilitate the temporary admission of goods into the United States without the payment of duties, provided that the goods are ultimately exported within the specified time frame. The three-year duration is established to give importers sufficient time to utilize the goods for their intended purpose—such as exhibiting them, testing them, or bringing them to a trade show—while ensuring that the goods do not remain in the U.S. for longer than the bond period.

This time limit reflects a balance between allowing businesses the flexibility to use imported goods temporarily while also maintaining customs controls to prevent circumvention of duty obligations on goods that are meant for permanent importation. The rules ensure that such temporary imports are closely monitored and are accounted for, necessitating a clear obligation on the part of the importer to export the goods within the three-year limit, or pay applicable duties and taxes.