Personal and returned goods · CBP
CBP Form 3509: Notice to Addressee of Arrival of Mail Shipment
CBP Form 3509 is the notice CBP sends when it holds an international mail parcel. It tells you what CBP needs, often a formal entry. You have 30 days from the date of the notice.
At a glance
- Issued by
- CBP, at the international mail facility
- Rules
- 19 CFR 145.12 and 132.25
- Deadline
- 30 days from the date of notice
- Who files the entry
- The addressee or a licensed customs broker
- Edition
- CBP Form 3509 (02/13)
CBP Form 3509
What is CBP Form 3509?
CBP Form 3509 is the Notice to Addressee of Arrival of Mail Shipment. CBP issues it for a specific parcel.
Box 11 shows what CBP requires, for example a formal entry for a commercial shipment over $2,500.
You do not download or fill in a blank 3509. You respond to the notice CBP sent you.
Who and when
Who needs it and when?
- The person or company named in Box 1.
- Respond within 30 days from the date of notice. After that, CBP treats the parcel as refused and returns it to the sender (19 CFR 132.25).
- More parcels need an entry now, because the de minimis exemption is suspended for all countries, including mail.
Roles
Who signs it and who files it?
- CBP issues the notice.
- The addressee, or a licensed customs broker with a power of attorney from the addressee, files the entry.
- The power of attorney must be in the name in Box 1.
Avoid delays
What mistakes delay it?
Counting from the wrong date
Count 30 days from the Date of Notice on the form, not from the day you received it.A power of attorney in another name
The name on the power of attorney must match Box 1.No invoice
CBP needs the invoice or other proof of what you paid.No reference number on replies
The form asks you to put the local reference number from Box 3 on all correspondence and documents.
Official source
Where do I get the official form?
CBP does not publish a blank CBP Form 3509. It is a notice CBP issues for your parcel. Our box-by-box guide explains each field.
- Official page19 CFR 145.12 (opens in a new tab)
- Also official19 CFR 132.25 (opens in a new tab)
Allied CHB
How can Allied help with CBP Form 3509?
We check the deadline, file the formal entry for your parcel, and send you a written quote first.
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.
CBP Form 3509, box by box What each box on the notice means and what to do.
Request: Help with CBP Form 3509
Quote on request
Questions
What else do people ask about CBP Form 3509?
Can I ask CBP for more time?
The notice says extensions may be granted case by case. Ask before the 30 days end.
Do I need a broker?
No. The addressee can file the entry. A licensed customs broker can file it for you under a power of attorney.
What does it cost?
Duty and CBP fees, plus the broker fee if you use a broker. See what a mail entry costs.
Need help with CBP Form 3509?
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.