General Order (GO)
Candlefocus EditorThose items that have been classified under General Order for more than six months will then be looked at in terms of disposal. U.S. Customs has a few options when it comes to dealing with these unclaimed imports. Firstly, these imported goods can be seized and given to the U.S. government for disposal. Secondly, these items can be donated to charitable organizations, depending on their nature and value. Lastly, the items can be sold off at local or nationwide public auction.
These auctions are held on a monthly basis by U.S. Customs and can be located both online and within U.S. locations. These local auctions typically take place in hotels located close to ports of entry. When it comes to the items on offer at the auction, U.S. Customs will typically accept sealed bids, and the highest bidder wins the auctioned item. Payment will usually have to be sent immediately after the auction concludes.
In conclusion, General Order is a process that U.S. Customs uses to regulate the flow of imported goods into the country. If imported goods remain unclaimed for more than six months, U.S. Customs has the power to either seize them, donate them to charity or auction them off to the public. The auctions take place monthly, both online and at local U.S. locations and the highest bid usually wins.