Navigating the regulations for commercial vehicles, private vessels, and aircraft entering the United States can be complex. One crucial aspect is understanding and complying with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) user fees. You might be wondering, does UER have a car repair program associated with these fees? While there isn’t a direct “car repair program” linked to CBP user fees, understanding these fees is essential for managing the overall costs of operating vehicles that cross the US border and ensuring smooth, compliant operations.
Established under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA), CBP user fees are designed to offset the costs of inspections and related services, which were previously funded solely by taxpayer revenue. These fees apply to various entries into the U.S., including commercial trucks, private vessels, and aircraft. Knowing how to apply for and manage user fee decals and transponders is vital for anyone operating conveyances across the US border.
Applying for Your User Fee Decal or Transponder
The most efficient way to apply for a User Fee Decal or Transponder is through the Decal and Transponder Online Procurement System (DTOPS) website. This online system streamlines the application process and allows for easy management of your account.
For first-time users, creating an online account is straightforward:
- Visit the DTOPS website.
- Click on “Register” to begin the account creation process.
- Fill out the required fields and proceed to the next step.
- Choose five security questions for account recovery and click “Next”.
- Your User ID will be displayed. Click “Login” to access your new account.
- Enter your assigned User ID and the password you created to log in.
- If you’ve previously purchased a User Fee, you can link your account by referring to your receipt for the Account ID Number and Decal/Transponder number.
Alternatively, you can still apply using a paper application. These forms are available on the cbp.gov website.
- Navigate to the “Forms” section, usually found on the left side of the page.
- CBP forms are listed numerically.
- Form 339A is for aircraft decals.
- Form 339V is for vessel decals.
- Form 339C is for commercial vehicle transponders.
Understanding User Fee Payment Requirements
Payment of the User Fee is mandatory under specific circumstances:
- If you operate a commercial vehicle entering the United States.
- If you operate a private vessel 30 feet or more in length entering the United States and it does not carry fare-paying passengers.
- If you operate a non-commercial aircraft entering the United States.
Detailed regulations regarding User Fee requirements can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, specifically 19 CFR 24.22.
Cost and Renewal of Annual User Fees
For the most up-to-date information on U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) User Fee costs, it’s recommended to visit the DTOPS website.
It’s important to note that User Fees are not pro-rated for mid-year purchases. The User Fee year aligns with the calendar year, beginning on January 1st and ending on December 31st. Consequently, all User Fees expire on December 31st annually and require renewal for continued compliance.
Vehicles without a valid annual User Fee are subject to a per-crossing fee each time they enter the United States. Even if a vehicle’s annual User Fee is not renewed, the transponder will still transmit information at the port of entry, but the per-crossing fee will be applied.
Single Crossing Payment Option
For vehicles that do not have an annual User Fee, a per-crossing fee is required for each entry. To streamline the process, carriers or their agents can pay this fee in advance online, saving time at the port of entry.
Managing Account and Conveyance Information
Keeping your account and conveyance information up-to-date is crucial. The online system is the primary tool for managing this information. Updates via email, fax, or postal mail are no longer accepted for changes that can be made online.
If you have an online account, simply log in to make necessary updates.
Account Administrators have the authority to update:
- Addresses
- Contact Numbers
- Account/Contact Names
- Add Users to the Account
Both Account Administrators and Account Users can update Conveyance information for:
- Commercial Vehicles:
- License Plate Number
- Cab Number
- Color
- Aircrafts and Vessels: Conveyance information updates for aircrafts and vessels are not available online and require contacting the Help Desk.
For the following conveyance information updates, contacting the Help Desk is necessary after the conveyance registration has been submitted:
- Commercial Vehicle:
- VIN
- Make
- Model
- Model Year
- Aircraft:
- Tail Number
- Vessel:
- Vessel Name
- Vessel Hull ID
- USCG Number
- Local Registration Number
For assistance, the User Fee Help Desk can be reached at (317) 298-1245 or via email at [email protected]. The fax number is (317) 290-3219.
Key Information About Commercial Vehicle Transponders
The transponder, often referred to as a User Fee sticker, utilizes Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology to transmit vital vehicle information and User Fee payment status at border crossings.
User Fees and transponders are valid for a calendar year. Transponders have a lifespan of up to 10 years and are designed to remain with the vehicle, even upon sale.
Replacement is required if a transponder is damaged or lost. Deactivation from a fleet is necessary when a vehicle is sold. Crucially, transponders are linked to the vehicle’s VIN and must stay with the originally assigned vehicle.
Transponder Handling for Vehicles
Vehicle with Existing Transponder: If a vehicle already has a transponder, a new one will not be issued upon renewal. Payment of the annual User Fee extends the expiration date of the existing transponder to the end of the paid calendar year. Failure to renew the fee results in per-crossing charges despite the transponder’s presence.
Vehicle Without Transponder: If a vehicle has never been issued a transponder, or if the original transponder is no longer attached, a new transponder will be issued after User Fee payment. If a transponder is required but not received, you can order a replacement online through DTOPS or contact the User Fee Help Desk.
Proper Transponder Placement
Correct placement is essential for transponder functionality. Before installation, clean the inside windshield surface with a residue-free glass cleaner. Position the transponder horizontally on the inside lower left of the truck windshield. Ensure it’s at least 2.5 inches from the metallic frame, within 4.5 inches from the windshield bottom, and 3 inches from any other windshield-mounted transponder. Avoid areas with glass curvature and do not affix to wing-windows.
Apply the transponder adhesive-side down to the glass, ensuring the printed information is readable from the driver’s seat. Once applied, the transponder is not removable and should remain on the vehicle for its lifespan. Attempting removal will render it inoperable. Never place the transponder vertically or in a location that obstructs the driver’s vision.
Transponder Replacement Procedures
For non-operational, damaged, or lost transponders, a replacement can be requested via the DTOPS website, fax, or mail to the program administrator:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Attn: DTOPS Program Administrator
8899 E 56th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46249
Fax: (317) 290-3219
Vehicle Transfers and Transponders
Transponders are vehicle-specific and cannot be transferred between vehicles. For fleet additions, if another company has paid the User Fee for a vehicle, you can transfer the transponder/vehicle to your transportation company online. Transponder switching between vehicles is prohibited.
User Fee Exchange for Different Vehicles
While transponders are not transferable between vehicles, CBP allows for a User Fee exchange for a different vehicle under specific conditions. A written request, postmarked within 30 calendar days of issuance and before transferring the renewed vehicle to another company, is required.
Required documentation for transponder exchanges includes:
- The unused/used transponder.
- The itemized receipt received with the transponder.
- A new application for the vehicle receiving the replacement transponder (no new payment needed).
- A signed statement explaining the exchange circumstances, including contact information.
For transponders purchased before January 1st, the exchange period extends through January 31st of the renewal year. Mail this information to the address listed above for transponder replacements.
For updating vehicle information, refer to the “Managing Account and Conveyance Information” section above.
Reporting Stolen Transponders
Stolen transponders must be reported to CBP via email at [email protected] or by calling (317) 298-1245, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm EST. A replacement transponder can be obtained, or the per-crossing fee will be required for each US entry. Check with your insurance provider regarding potential insurance coverage for stolen User Fees.
Information on Decals for Private Aircraft and Vessels
Decals serve as proof of User Fee payment for private aircraft and private vessels (30 feet or more) entering the U.S. annually. Vessels or aircraft lacking an annual decal must pay a per-arrival User Fee of $27.50 and complete an application for decal processing and mailing.
Decal Placement Guidelines
Decals for private aircraft and vessels should be affixed to the exterior of the conveyance, within 18 inches of the normal boarding area, visible when doors/hatches are open. For decal backing removal difficulties, repeatedly move your thumb across a decal corner.
Decal Replacement Procedures
For decals damaged due to repair or repainting, a replacement request with supporting documents must be submitted within 6 months of issuance. Required documents include:
- A copy of the itemized receipt showing the decal number.
- A copy of the paid repair or painting bill with the company’s details.
- Vessel name or aircraft tail number identification.
- A signed statement explaining the circumstances and contact information.
Mail these documents to the CBP address provided earlier.
Decal Exchange Policy
Decals are conveyance-specific and non-transferable. An unused decal exchange for a different conveyance is possible with a written request postmarked within 30 days of issuance.
Required exchange documents are:
- The unused decal.
- The itemized receipt issued with the decal.
- A new application (CF339V or CF339A) for the replacement decal (no new payment required).
- A signed statement explaining the exchange circumstances and contact information.
For decals purchased before January 1st, the exchange period extends to January 31st of the renewal year. Mail this information to the CBP address.
Tail Number Change Procedure
To change a tail number associated with a decal, submit:
- A copy of the new registration.
- Official documentation showing the old and new tail numbers.
- A signed statement requesting the tail number change and decal number.
Fax to (317) 290-3219 or mail to the CBP address.
While UER might not offer a car repair program directly linked to user fees, understanding and managing these fees is a critical aspect of compliant and cost-effective vehicle operation across the US border. Ensuring your vehicles are properly maintained and compliant with all regulations, including user fees, contributes to smoother operations and potentially reduces unexpected costs in the long run.
For further assistance or questions, contact the User Fee Help Desk at (317) 298-1245 or via email at [email protected].
