When shipments arriving at the ports of Los Angeles or Long Beach are selected for intensive customs inspections, it can create significant logistical uncertainties. Understanding which examination station your goods are directed to and how to track inspection progress is crucial for maintaining supply chain efficiency. This article provides a detailed guide to the three primary CBP-designated Centralized Examination Stations (CES) serving these ports.
Understanding CBP's CES Inspection System
To strengthen oversight of imported goods, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operates specialized Centralized Examination Stations. In the Los Angeles/Long Beach port complex, three primary CES facilities handle most intensive inspections of containerized cargo flagged by CBP.
These examinations may involve multiple regulatory checks, including:
- Trade enforcement inspections (MET)
- Anti-terrorism enforcement (A-TCET)
- Agricultural inspections (AG/CBPa/AQI)
- FDA compliance checks
The Three Primary CES Facilities
1. Price Transfer
Operator: Price Transfer
FIRMS Codes:
- Trade enforcement (MET): W344
- Anti-terrorism (A-TCET): Y265
As a CES provider since the program's 1985 inception, Price Transfer offers extensive experience handling all inspection types. The company operates multiple facilities near the ports, including two CBP examination stations, a bonded container freight station, and bonded warehouses totaling over 1 million square feet of space.
Price Transfer maintains on-site offices for CBP and partner government agencies like FDA and USDA, helping streamline inspection processes.
2. FCL Logistics
Operator: F.C.L. Logistics Ltd.
FIRMS Code: W493
Established in 2001 and authorized as a CES provider in 2004, FCL Logistics (a Price Transfer Group affiliate) offers 195,000 square feet of warehouse space with specialized temperature-controlled inspection areas. The company provides comprehensive logistics services including warehousing, transloading, and inventory management alongside its CES operations.
3. NFI Cal Cartage
Operator: California Cartage Company, LLC (NFI subsidiary)
FIRMS Code: W517
Originally established in 1994 and acquired by NFI in 2017, NFI Cal Cartage is the largest drayage and transload service provider in the LA/Long Beach port area. The parent company operates 68 million square feet of warehouse space nationwide and maintains a fleet of over 5,000 tractors.
Beyond port services, NFI offers comprehensive supply chain solutions including dedicated transportation, warehousing, e-commerce fulfillment, and intermodal services.
Tracking Inspection Progress
Each CES facility provides online tracking systems where shippers can monitor inspection status using bill of lading numbers or other reference information. These systems allow real-time monitoring of key milestones including:
- Facility arrival confirmation
- Inspection initiation/completion
- Final disposition results
Strategies for Managing CES Inspections
To minimize delays and complications during customs examinations:
- Ensure all documentation is complete, accurate, and compliant with regulations
- Maintain detailed product knowledge (composition, intended use, etc.) to facilitate any required explanations
- Work with experienced customs brokers familiar with local procedures
- Establish clear communication channels with all supply chain partners
- Consider appropriate cargo insurance coverage
Understanding the CES inspection process and facilities at America's busiest port complex helps importers maintain supply chain visibility and develop effective contingency plans when shipments undergo regulatory examinations.