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Once you begin the process to join FTZ 100, we will help you through the two major phases: Application and Activation. The application requires detailed site information and activation requires site evaluation and written documentation. Throughout every step of the process, our staff will help you obtain and submit the correct documentation and update you on the status of your application.

 

Phase One: Application

  1. Grantee Concurrence Request
    1. Submit a Request Letter to Grantee or Administrator stating the company’s desire to be a FTZ and whether applying for a Subzone or Usage-Driven Site. Print the letter on the company’s letterhead and turn it in to Greater Dayton Foreign Trade Zone, Inc. for discussion during the next board meeting.
    2. Include an Operator Agreement with a layout of the building and a border around the area that would represent the desired FTZ designation area.
    3. The board will recommend that the Greater Dayton Foreign Trade Zone, Inc. (Grantee) execute the Operator Agreement and sign a Concurrence Letter.
    4. That Grantee Concurrence Letter will be sent to the company through certified mail and is required in the next step of the Application.
  2. FTZ Board Transmittal
    1. Complete the application, including all questions concerning zone location, type, size, planned activities, zoning, and others as specified by the FTZ Board Application Process.
    2. Attach all required documents, including a map (as required in the Grantee process or a more detailed version), any comments from Customs & Border Protection, and any applicable tax information.
    3. Submit the application (1) and attachment (2) to be filed with FTZ Board in Washington D.C.
    4. A Letter of Transmittal will be sent to the applicant company and is required in the next phase, Activation.

 

Phase Two: Activation

  1. Submit Request Letter for Security Clearance for the key individuals to be operating the FTZ on behalf of the company.  (Forms are available through the local Customs & Border Protection Office.)
  2. Customs & Border Protection will likely require the submission of an activation application packet by the company, including:
    1. a letter requesting activation of the FTZ board-approved site,
    2. a list of specific zone procedures and proposed zone activity,
    3. a site map illustrating the requested area for activation,
    4. a letter of concurrence from the grantee (from Application Process above),
    5. a letter stating willingness to interface with U.S. Customs & Border Protection automated systems,
    6. a blanket Customs & Border Protection Form 216 (Application for Foreign Trade Zone Activity Permit) with a full description of FTZ activity,
    7. letter requesting Customs & Border Protection to set the Type 4 bond amount,
    8. and letter requesting a FIRMS Code.
  3. Establish FTZ software List of Providers.
  4. A formal physical security inspection of the building by Customs & Border Protection prior to the activation of the zone. Upon approval, Customs & Border Protection will send a written notification of approval or remedial action that will be necessary prior to approval being granted by Customs & Border Protection. Once satisfied, they will issue a Customs & Border Protection concurrence letter stating that they have inspected the site and that the company is now allowed to be active.
  5. The prospective Operator must have a Customs & Border Protection 301 bond established for the new zone. (Company must include Greater Dayton Foreign Trade Zone, Inc. as additional insured.)
  6. COI, FTZ Board letter of approval, Customs & Border Protection concurrence letter, and a letter stating the date when the company would begin utilizing the zone will be turned in for filing.

While the activation process typically takes anywhere from 30 to 90 days, the process may take longer depending on the individual company. Please note that this information should not serve as a consultation. Partner with a FTZ consultant to ensure that the application process is completed entirely and according to the regulations set by the FTZ Board at Washington D.C. Additionally, Activation is outside the control of the Grantee or its Administrator. Activation (and later Enforcement) is governed by Customs & Border Protection, and all related paperwork should be sent directly to them. For the most accurate information, please contact a FTZ Consultant or the local Customs & Border Protection Office.