|  |  | User Fee Decals and Transponders
(05/03/2011)Introduction
On April 7, 1986, President Ronald Reagan signed the Consolidate Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) (P.L. 99-272), which authorizes the U.S. Customs Service to collect User Fees for various services. The law initially established processing fees for air and sea passengers, commercial trucks, rail cars, private vessels, dutiable mail packages, and Customs broker permits. The collection of the COBRA fees for Customs services began on July 7, 1986.The User Fee was established to offset inspection costs that were previously funded solely by general taxpayer revenue.User Fee Payment Required
Payment of the User Fee is required if:- You operate a vehicle for commercial purposes that enters the United States.
- You operate a private vessel that is 30 feet or more in length that enters the United States.
- In order to qualify as a private vessel requiring a decal, the vessel cannot carry passengers who pay a fare.
- You operate an aircraft, which is non-commercial and enters the United States.
There is more detailed information related to the requirements of the User Fee in the Code of Federal Regulations: 19 CFR 24.22.Cost of Annual User Fee
Costs of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) User Fees are as follows:- Private Aircraft Decal: $27.50 (U.S.) per calendar year*
- Private Vessel Decal (30 feet or more in length): $27.50 (U.S.) per calendar year*
- Commercial Vehicle User Fee:
- $100.00 – U.S. CBP
- $105.00 Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)**
APHIS is responsible for protecting U.S. crops and livestock from pests and diseases and for monitoring and promoting wildlife management and animal welfare. The current proposal published in the Federal Register on February 26, 2007 indicates the removal of Canada’s exemption from the APHIS Fee for Commercial Vehicles is scheduled for June 1, 2007.The User Fee will not be pro-rated for purchases made mid-year.The User Fee year begins January 1st and ends December 31st. Therefore, all User Fees expire December 31st and are eligible for renewal.* The User Fee for Private Aircraft and Vessels (30 Feet or over) increased 10% on April 1, 2007 pursuant to the notice published in the Federal Register on Friday, January 26, 2007.
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Federal Register ) Per Crossing Fee for Commercial Vehicles
Vehicles that do not have an annual User Fee will be required to pay a per crossing fee each time the vehicle enters the United States. If the vehicle’s User Fee is not renewed, the transponder will continue to transmit information at the port. However, a per-crossing fee will be charged.Transponder Information
The transponder, also known as a User Fee, is a sticker that contains an electronic chip that transmits information about a vehicle and border crossing User Fee payment status.User Fees are valid for the calendar year only. Transponders have a life span of up to 10 years and remain with the vehicle, even if sold.Transponders will require replacement when damaged or lost. They also require deactivation from one’s fleet when the vehicle is sold. However, transponders are associated with the vehicle’s VIN and must remain with the vehicle to which it was assigned.Vehicle with Transponder
If a vehicle had previously been issued a transponder and the application indicated it was on the vehicle, a new one will not be issued. Once payment for the User Fee has been received, the expiration date on the transponder will be extended to the end of the calendar year for which the User Fee was paid.If the renewal fee is not paid, the transponder will continue to transmit information at the port. However, a per-crossing fee will be charged.Vehicle without Transponder
If a vehicle has never been issued a transponder or the application indicated the vehicle’s assigned transponder is no longer on the vehicle, a new transponder will be issued once payment for the User Fee has been received. If a transponder is required and is not received with the paperwork, call or email the User Fee Help Desk at (317) 298-1245 or decals@dhs.gov.Placement of Transponder
There are two (2) options for installing a transponder.Before installing a transponder, thorough cleaning is recommended of the inside of the windshield surface with a high quality glass cleaner that does not leave residue. The transponder is to be placed horizontally on the inside lower left of the truck's windshield at least 2-1/2 inches away from the metallic frame but within a band 4-1/2 inches from the bottom of the windshield and at least 3 inches from any other windshield mounted transponder. Transponders CANNOT be affixed to the wing-windows. Areas with glass curvature should be avoided.The transponder has one side that is etched with the unique identifying alpha/numeric number. The other side of the transponder is coated with an adhesive. The transponder may be placed on the windshield, adhesive to the glass, so that the etched information is readable from the driver's position. Once applied to the windshield, the transponder is not removable. The transponder should remain on the vehicle for the life of the transponder. Any attempt to remove the transponder after application will render it inoperable.The transponder should never be placed in a vertical position or in a location where it would obstruct the vision of the driver.Alternate Transponder Installation Options
Alternate adhesives for affixing a transponder to the windshield are permitted. The transponder can be affixed to the windshield by tape or some other temporary process, placed in a clear plastic pouch, or affixed to a permanent holder attached to the dashboard of the truck cab. In the case of the use of either the tape or pouch, the transponder must be placed on the lower left side of the windshield or in the case of the permanent holder, in close proximity to the lower left side.Transponder Replacement
If the issued transponder is non-operational, damaged, or lost, you may request a replacement transponder. To receive a replacement transponder you must complete the information below, and return the current transponder* to:U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Attn: DTOPS Program Administrator
6650 Telecom Drive, Suite 100
Indianapolis, IN 46278*If you cannot return the current transponder, you must indicate the reason why the transponder cannot be returned.Transfer Transponder from Another Account
If a new vehicle joins a fleet and another company has paid the User Fee for the year, choose to transfer that transponder/vehicle to your transportation company. Transfers may only be completed using your online account.Transponder Exchange
Because a transponder is assigned to a specific conveyance, it cannot be removed and attached to another conveyance. CBP will exchange a transponder for a different conveyance if a written request is postmarked no later than 30 calendar days after it was issued. The request must also be made prior to a transfer of the renewed conveyance to another company. Only valid requests will be granted.The following documentation must be submitted for transponder exchanges:- Unused/used transponder.
- Itemized receipt that was sent to you with the transponder.
- New application for the vehicle that will be assigned the replacement transponder.
- New payment is no longer required
- Signed statement with a brief explanation of the circumstances that required the exchange, including a contact name and telephone number.
* The exception to the 30-day rule: If you purchased a transponder prior to January 1st, it may be exchanged through January 31st of the renewal year. Mail this information to:U.S. Customs and Border Protection
ATTN: DTOPS Program Administrator
6650 Telecom Drive, Suite 100
Indianapolis, IN 46278Change/Update Vehicle Only
Information changes/updates to truck/commercial vehicle information or deactivation of a transponder may be completed online or completed by obtaining a Transponder Update sheet from the User Fee Help Desk.Note: Changes to Vehicle Manufacturer, Model Year, VIN Number, and Transponder Number cannot be made via the Internet.To make these changes, contact the User Fee Help Desk.Stolen Transponder
Stolen transponders must be reported to CBP. Email decals@dhs.gov or call (317) 298-1245, Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm EST.A replacement transponder may be obtained or the per-crossing fee will be required to be paid each time the vehicle enters the U.S.Customers may be able to report the loss of the User Fee to their insurance company; check with your insurance provider for guidance.Newly Approved C-TPAT Carriers
Newly approved C-TPAT carriers must update their FAST vehicle information in their online account.To add a C-TPAT FAST approved carried identification:- Log into your DTOPS account
- Click Manage Conveyance Inventory
- Select Commercial Vehicle and click Next
- Click on the VIN to which you want to add the C-TPAT FAST ID
- Enter the C-TPAT FAST ID and click Update
FAST Account Changes
For address verification or changes, email: Industry.partnership@dhs.gov.ACE Support Contact Information
Establishing an ACE Account: acenow@dhs.gov.ACE Help Desk: 1-866-530-4172- Select Option 1 (Ace Support)
Decal Information
Decals are stickers that are placed on all private aircraft and private vessels (30 feet or more in length) as proof that the User Fee for entry into the U.S. has been paid for the calendar year. Any arriving vessel or aircraft that does not have an annual decal is required to pay a non-refundable per arrival User Fee of $27.50, and complete an application, which will be forwarded to the processing center. The application will be processed, and a decal will be mailed from the processing center.Placement of Decals – Private Aircraft or Private Vessels
The User Fee decal for private aircraft and private vessels is to be affixed on the outside of the conveyance within 18 inches of the normal boarding area, where it is visible when doors/hatches are open.If difficulty is experienced in removing the decal backing, move your thumb repeatedly across a corner of the decal. Attempt each corner.Decal Replacement
When a vessel or aircraft decal has been damaged due to repair or repainting, the following documents must be submitted no later than 6 months after the decal was issued to obtain a replacement decal:- A copy of the itemized receipt that was sent to you with the decal number assigned.
- A copy of the paid repair or painting bill, signed by the company that performed the work, as well as the company's name and address on the signed invoice or letterhead.
- If your conveyance is a/an:
- Vessel: identify the vessel name
- Aircraft: identify the tail number
- A signed statement with a brief explanation of the circumstances that required the repair or repainting, as well as a contact name and telephone number.
Mail this information to:U.S. Customs and Border Protection
ATTN: DTOPS Program Administrator
6650 Telecom Drive, Suite 100
Indianapolis, IN 46278Decal Exchange
Because a decal is assigned to a specific conveyance, it cannot be transferred. CBP will exchange an unused decal for a different conveyance if a written request is postmarked no later than 30 calendar days from which it was issued.*The following documentation must be submitted for decal exchanges:- Unused decal.
- Itemized receipt that was issued to you with the decal.
- New application (CF339V or CF339A) for the vessel or aircraft that will be assigned the replacement decal.
- Signed statement with a brief explanation of the circumstances that required the exchange, with a contact name and telephone number.
* The exception to the 30-day rule: If you purchased a transponder prior to January 1st, it may be exchanged through January 31st of the renewal year.Mail this information to:U.S. Customs and Border Protection
ATTN: DTOPS Program Administrator
6650 Telecom Drive, Suite 100
Indianapolis, IN 46278 Tail Number Change
The following documentation must be submitted to make a change to a tail number:- Copy of the new registration
- Official documentation stating the new and old tail number
- Signed statement requesting the tail number change and decal number
Fax this information to: (317) 290-3219 or mail to:Customs and Border Protection
ATTN: DTOPS Program Administrator
6650 Telecom Dr. Suite 100
Indianapolis, IN 46278Lost or Stolen Decal
Stolen decals must be reported to CBP. Email decals@dhs.gov or call (317) 298-1245, Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm EST.A new User Fee decal must be purchased.Customers may be able to report the loss to their insurance company; check with your insurance provider for guidance.Options for Applying
Online – Computer Requirements
To access the website, the browser must be capable of handling 128 bit encryption. These include (but are not limited to):- America Online (3.0 or higher), which may be located at America Online
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America Online )
- Netscape, which may be located at Netscape
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Netscape )
- Internet Explorer (between 6.0 and 7.0), which may be located at Internet Explorer
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Internet Explorer )
- Mozilla
- Firefox
Security
This service uses a sophisticated security solution-utilizing Secure Socket Layer technology for transmitting business-to-business documents and related financial data over the Internet. By using this technology, we are employing the highest levels of Internet security including 128-bit encryption.Login to Decal and Transponder Online Procurement System (DTOPS)
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Decal and Transponder Online Procurement System (DTOPS) ) Login to Account
The Login page is where the process begins to place an order for a User Fee. There are two choices for entry:9 Digit Account Number
Each customer that has purchased a User Fee within the last year has been assigned a nine (9) digit account number. This number allows CBP to identify the customer in the database. If unable to locate account number or User ID, call the User Fee Help Desk at (317) 298-1245 or email decals@dhs.gov.Paper Application
CBP will no longer send User Fee renewal applications to customers who purchase calendar year User Fees. If you would like to request a pre-printed User Fee paper application, please contact the User Fee Help Desk at (317) 298-1245 and select option 3 for paper renewal requests. For blank paper applications, please see links on the right hand side of the page.All information on the application must be complete, per the instructions, to avoid CBP having to return the application without a decal/transponder. No abbreviations are permitted, except certain universally accepted address elements, i.e., state or province, street, drive, avenue, etc. Applicants from Canada and Mexico should not use abbreviations common only to their particular country, as application processors may not be familiar with them. If your address is not clear or is incorrect, the issuance of the decal/transponder will be delayed. Please contact the User Fee Help Desk at (317) 298-1245 or email decals@dhs.gov for free assistance.Refunds
Please ensure the accuracy of your order to avoid duplication. Once the User Fee has been paid, the transaction is final. If you have any questions about your refund options, please call User Fee Help Desk at (317) 298-1245 or email decals@dhs.gov for assistance.Payment Information
Payment methods for online orders are Master Card, Visa, American Express, Discover, or a U.S. bank account. If a U.S. Bank Account is used, the funds will be electronically transferred using Automated Clearing House (ACH). Make sure your financial institution participates in this program.Payment methods for paper orders are check, money order, or credit card (Master Card, Visa, American Express, Discover).An additional 5 business days processing time is required if payment is submitted in the form of a Check or ACH payment.Delivery Options
There are various mailing options available for the delivery of decal/transponder orders. The applicant is responsible for the cost of the shipping method requested. As used below, the term "per application" for the purpose of determining shipping cost is defined as the same name and "ship to" address for all User Fee(s) requested at the same time, regardless of quantity.If your "ship to" address is within the United States, your shipping options are:- Standard first class mail. This will be the method used to ship your User Fee order unless you select the expedited shipping option. CBP will provide first class mail service at no cost to the customer.
- Expedited next business day delivery (street addresses only - no P.O. Boxes). There is an additional cost of $6.00 per application for this service.
If your "ship to" address is located in Canada, your shipping options are:- Standard first class mail. This will be the method used to ship your User Fee order unless you select the expedited option. CBP will provide first class mail service at no cost to the customer.
- Expedited mail service is available (Approximately 3-4 business days, street addresses only - no P.O. Boxes). There is an additional cost of $15.00 per application for this service.
If your "ship to" address is located in Mexico, your shipping options are:
Decals (Aircraft or Vessel)- Standard first class mail. This will be the method used to ship your decal order unless you select the registered mail option. CBP will provide first class mail service at no cost to the customer. This option is only available to decal orders or receipts, not for transponder orders.
- The U.S. Postal Service's Registered Mail. There is an additional cost of $8.00 per application.
Required for Transponders
U.S. Registered mail is required for transponders being shipped to an address in Mexico. There is an additional cost of $8.00 per application.Applicants requesting "ship to" addresses not located in the United States, Canada, or Mexico will receive their User Fee orders via the U.S. Postal Service's first class mail, paid for by CBP. It is permissible to designate a "ship to" address within the United States, even though your residence or business address is elsewhere. This will allow you to request the overnight courier option available for U.S. address, if you wish.| Online Application | 2-4 weeks** | | Faxed ApplicationYou may fax your application to (317) 290-3219,using a credit card for payment | 2-4 weeks | | Mailed Application | Check Payment** – 2-4 weeksMoney Order Payment – 2-4 weeksCredit Card Payment – 2-4 weeks | | United States | First Class Mail – 4 daysOvernight Service – 1 day, $6.00 | | Mexico | First Class Mail – Up to 6 weeksRegistered Mail – Up to 6 weeks, $8.00 | | Canada | First Class Mail – Up to 6 weeksExpedited Service – 4 days, $15.00 |
*All applications are processed in the order that they are received.
**Allow an additional 5 business days if payment is submitted in the form of a Check or ACH payment.Quick Service
Applicants who wish to expedite the processing of their applications should use a credit card or money order for the payment, should provide a "ship to" address that is located in the United States, and should take advantage of the optional expedited delivery method. The "ship to" address may be different from the residence or business address.Another option to expedite the processing of a transponder application is to submit transponder renewal orders separate from new transponder or replacement orders. Renewals that do not require a new transponder are processed automatically and receipts are available the same day the order is processed.First Choice:
Ordering decals/transponders online via the Internet is quick because electronic processing is utilized. This is also the most accurate option for applying. To receive your order in, 2-4 weeks, you may use a "ship to" address in the United States and select the expedited shipping method. To use this method, please click on the Apply Online for User Fee Decals and Transponders link on the right side of this page under ‘on the web’.Second Choice:
To receive a decal within 2-4 weeks, you may fax your application to (317) 290-3219, using a credit card for payment, indicating a "ship to" address in the United States, and selecting the expedited shipping method for U.S. addresses.If applicants opt to use first class mail, a check for payment, and/or a "ship to" address outside the United States, it may up to 6 weeks before the decals/transponders are received.Mailing Addresses
User Fee applications not submitted online or by fax must be mailed to the User Fee Program Administrator in Indianapolis, Indiana.Please mail your completed application to CBP with payment to:U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Attn: DTOPS Program Administrator
6650 Telecom Drive, Suite 100
Indianapolis, IN 46278Inquiries
Questions should be directed to the User Fee Help Desk at (317) 298-1245, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. EST, or via email at decals@dhs.gov. |
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