INSPECTION AND AUDIT PROCESS FOR SHIPPED GOODS UTILIZING ONLINE GLOBAL PRICING SYSTEM

摘要

A customs inspection and auditing process uses an online global pricing syst em that is implemented over a distributed network such as the Internet. The process generally includes selecting a consignment for audit based upon certain risk selectivity criteria, obtaining prices for selected items in th e consignment using the online pricing system, and using the obtained prices t o create a price audit report for customs officials. The system is preferably configured to provide prices in accordance with the guidelines set forth in Article VII of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Customs Valuation so that customs officials in member countries may use the prices t o accurately assess valuation in accordance with international agreements, and thereby improve government collections of customs and tax revenues, and dete ct illegal activity such as industrial dumping or money laundering.