Post-entry · CBP
CBP Form 28: Request for Information
CBP Form 28 is CBP's written request for information or samples about an entry. You do not fill in a blank CF-28. You answer the one CBP sends you, usually through your broker.
At a glance
- Issued by
- CBP, after the entry
- Rule
- 19 CFR 151.11
- Legal basis for the reply
- 19 U.S.C. 1509
- Reply time
- 30 days, or contact the CBP officer
- Current edition
- CBP Form 28 (08/24)
CBP Form 28
What is CBP Form 28?
CBP Form 28 is the Request for Information. CBP uses it when the invoice and entry do not give enough information to classify or value the goods, or to check compliance.
The form lists what CBP wants. Examples are the contract or purchase order, product literature, a breakdown of components and their cost, samples, and whether you are related to the seller.
It can also ask about costs that add to the value: packing, commissions, proceeds to the seller, assists, and royalties or license fees.
Who and when
Who needs it and when?
- CBP sends it to the importer of record or its broker after the entry is filed.
- Reply within 30 days. If you cannot, contact the CBP officer named on the form (form instruction 5).
- If CBP does not get what it needs, it can act on the entry with a CBP Form 29.
Roles
Who signs it and who files it?
- An appropriate official of the importer signs the certification. It is not required when a foreign firm completes the form.
- Your broker usually uploads the reply and documents to CBP electronically against the entry.
- Samples consumed in analysis are not normally returned (form text).
Avoid delays
What mistakes delay it?
A late reply
If the 30 days pass with no reply and no contact with the officer, CBP can act on the information it has.Documents for another shipment
All information and samples must relate to the shipment on the form (form instruction 2).Silence on the related-party question
If you are related to the seller, explain how the relationship affects the price. The form defines related parties, including 5 percent ownership.Value additions left out
If you paid assists, royalties or commissions, report them. They can be part of the transaction value.
Official source
Where do I get the official form?
You answer the CF-28 that CBP sends you. The blank form on cbp.gov is useful to read the definitions on page 3.
CBP's form page says the OMB date printed on this form has expired, but the form is still valid while OMB reviews it.
- Official pageCBP Form 28 on cbp.gov (opens in a new tab)
- Current formCBP Form 28 (PDF, cbp.gov) (opens in a new tab)
Edition checked on September 26, 2026: CBP Form 28 (08/24). We link to the official source and do not host copies, because agencies replace forms without notice.
Allied CHB
How can Allied help with CBP Form 28?
We read the request, list what CBP needs, and prepare and upload your reply against the entry.
Allied CHB is a licensed U.S. customs broker in Rahway, New Jersey, CBP filer code 9AJ. We file at all U.S. ports of entry.
CF-28 response help We prepare and upload your reply to a CBP request for information.
Request: Help with CBP Form 28
Quote on request
Questions
What else do people ask about CBP Form 28?
Is a CF-28 a penalty?
No. It is a request for information under 19 U.S.C. 1509. How you answer can affect what CBP does next.
What if I need more than 30 days?
Contact the CBP officer on the form before the 30 days pass and ask for more time. Keep a record of the request.
Can my foreign supplier answer?
Yes. The form allows a foreign firm to complete it, and then no importer certification is needed. Coordinate so CBP gets one complete answer.
What happens after I reply?
CBP reviews the reply. It can accept the entry as filed, ask for more, or act on the entry with a CBP Form 29.
Need help with CBP Form 28?
Call (908) 291-8001 or email info@alliedchb.com
Last reviewed September 26, 2026. This page explains customs rules in general terms. It is not legal advice. Duty rates and CBP procedures change often, and we confirm the figures for your shipment in writing before you commit.