On June 1, 2020, in Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS) #42894478, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced a new process for the automated collection of assessments on imported softwood lumber under the Softwood Lumber Checkoff. The current assessment rate is $0.35/thousand board feet after the first 15 million board feet.
The Checkoff is mandatory and administered by the Softwood Lumber Board (SLB) who uses the assessments to promote market growth for softwood lumber products used in family dwellings and commercial construction. Payments have been made directly to the SLB since the Checkoff was authorized in 2012, but they will be collected by CBP beginning July 1, 2020. Additionally, quarterly report submission from large importers will no longer be required.
A list of products covered by the Softwood Lumber Checkoff as well as information on refunds can be found in the CSMS:
