International Trade Advantages

The Basics

  • Public utility to reduce cost of goods sold
  • Defer, reduce, and eliminate duties on imported merchandise
  • Tool for both manufacturers and distributors

Battle Creek offers convenience to companies conducting international trade by offering the efficient services of U.S. Customs Port of Entry and Foreign-Trade Zone #43 (FTZ) right in the Fort Custer Industrial Park, making it even easier to compete in the global marketplace.

Foreign and domestic merchandise may be admitted into foreign trade zones for storage, exhibition, assembly, manufacture, production, and processing, without formal customs entry procedures, the payment of customs duties, or the payment of federal excise taxes. These benefits help stimulate U.S. employment, attract foreign investment, and improve the export competitiveness of U.S. based companies.

The Port of Battle Creek, Michigan, is an uncongested inland port of entry, where imports clear customs in a timely manner.  Unlike larger coastal ports, goods may arrive in the morning, be cleared by U.S. Customs, then move to the factory floor by afternoon. The Port of Battle Creek is midway between Detroit and Chicago on the I-94 transportation corridor. Sixty-percent of both U.S. and Canadian consumer markets can be reached by overnight shipping from Battle Creek.

The Port of Battle Creek brings nearly forty years of service to the Southwest Michigan region. Two full-time U.S. Customs personnel serve the port and W.K. Kellogg Airport, allowing for convenient clearances of international aircraft arrivals.

With assistance from FTZ #43 at the Port of Battle Creek, a Foreign Trade Zone designation may be accomplished within 30 days at the existing site. Businesses within the 14 county service area of FTZ #43 have no need to relocate their operations to take advantage of FTZ services. The 14 counties include Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kalamazoo, Jackson, St. Joseph and Van Buren.

FTZ 14-COUNTY MAP 2020

Foreign-Trade Zone #43 Service Area. 14 Counties in West Michigan

Learn More About Foreign-Trade Zone Benefits (PDF)

BCU administers FTZ #43 and will assist you in navigating this unique benefit.

 

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