CBP’s CAPE System Is Now Live for IEEPA Tariff Refund Claims

Companies can now begin filing tariff refund claims through U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s newly launched CAPE system, which went live this morning at 8:00 a.m. ET. 

The launch marks an important next step in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision striking down the International Emergency Economic Powers Act tariffs. In response, CBP stood up the CAPE system to give companies a mechanism to begin requesting refunds, providing a much-needed pathway for importers seeking to recover eligible duties. 

Although there were a few minor technical hiccups at launch, early signs are positive. Initial indications suggest the system is working and smoothly handling filings, an encouraging development for retailers and other importers preparing submissions.

CBP has also shared additional support resources to help companies navigate the process, including a message with filing support information and a step-by-step guidance document. In addition, CBP will host two upcoming webinars for filers.

Importantly, this launch appears to represent only phase one of the refund process. We are still awaiting direction from CBP on which entries will be included in the next phase and when that phase could launch. Until then, companies should continue monitoring agency guidance closely and take advantage of the resources currently available. 

For retailers, the CAPE rollout is a welcome development and an important step toward a more orderly refund process. Companies planning to file should review the available guidance, participate in one of the upcoming webinars, and stay alert for additional details from CBP as the process continues to evolve.