When operating a business inside an airport behind secure lines, it is necessary to obtain both an airport security bond and a Customs access seal for security reasons.
What is an Airport Security Bond?
An Airport Security Bond (ASB) is a U.S. Customs bond needed for outsourced service companies to enter secured areas of airports. An ASB is usually designated as an activity code 11 bond on Customs Form 301. ASBs apply to the employees of any business that operates beyond the security checkpoint within the airport.
An ASB acts as a financial agreement with Customs that any company operating behind a secure line at an airport (and its employees) will comply with Customs Regulations within the secure areas of that airport. The bond guarantees CBP that if the bond principal and affiliated employees fail to comply with Customs regulations, all liquidated damages will be paid.
All employees need to understand the regulations of Customs relative to an airport. Businesses operating under an Airport Security Bond will also need to notify the port director of any employment changes.
What is a Customs Access Seal?
A Customs Access Seal is required for workers to access CBP security areas so they can perform their duties behind secure lines. This seal will allow access to Customs security areas. It is a visible identification worn by all employees under the Airport Security Bond. A Customs Access Seal can be filed with the port director and will remain in effect for two years.
Airport Security Bond Size Requirements
The minimum size of an Airport Security Bond is $10,000. The bond amount is generally based on a calculation of $1000 per employee with Customs security area access. The Port Director of the International Airport where the bond is filed may adjust this amount at their discretion.
Who Needs an Airport Security Bond?
Any private business operating within Customs security areas, areas accommodating international air commerce designated for processing people and baggage, the aircraft deplaning and ramp area, and other restricted areas designated by the port director are required to post an airport security bond. This includes restaurants, bars, gift shops, and companies operating behind the scenes, such as janitors, engineers, and general contractors. Even vending machine companies need to purchase an ASB to operate inside of an airport.
Some common examples of companies that require Airport Security Bonds include:
- Service Companies
- Restaurants
- Coffee Shops
- Vending Machine Operators
- Independent Retail Stores
- Custodial/Janitorial/Housekeeping firms
- Construction Companies
- General Contractors
- Sub-contractors
- Excavation Contractors
- Professionals
- Architects
- Engineers
Note that Customs will also allow a business to operate inside the Customs Security Area if the business is already in possession of an Activity Code 1 (C1) Importer Bond to import into the United States. An Airport Security Bond may not be used to import goods into the United States.
Why Choose TRG for Your Airport Security Bond?
Since 1991, Trade Risk Guaranty has been working directly with contractors, construction, service, and maintenance companies to provide competitive pricing and peak client experience for their Airport Security Bonds. Our long relationships with top-rated sureties and industry expertise give us the ability to write the bonds that others simply cannot.
