The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) conducts reviews at U.S. Customs, some through the NII system and others with physical examinations.

What is the difference between the two?

According to CBP data, examinations conducted through NII systems take only 8 minutes. In comparison, physical examinations require up to 120 minutes.

In addition, the use of NII systems and other technologies has generated significant savings. This includes $1 billion in annual operating costs. It has also allowed the industry to save between $5.8 billion and $17.5 billion in delay costs.

CBP, as part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, plays a critical role. Its work includes facilitating international trade, collecting import duties and enforcing regulations related to trade, customs and immigration.

Reviews at U.S. Customs

At 328 U.S. ports of entry and several international locations, CBP facilitates lawful trade and travel. It processes passengers, cargo and vehicles arriving at these points.

For example, on an average day in FY 2023, CBP processed more than 1 million people at ports of entry. It also handled more than 100,000 trucks, rail, and ocean containers, along with more than 200,000 private vehicles.

For individuals, CBP used biometric technology to process more than 172 million travelers. This facial matching technology was applied at entry, exit and pre-clearance points. In addition, it achieved a match rate of over 98% during FY 2023.

For cargo and vehicles, CBP employed NII systems. These systems allow scanning without the need to physically open or unload the conveyances. This facilitates the detection of contraband or undeclared goods, optimizing trade and travel.

In 2023, thanks to large-scale NII systems, CBP scanned more than 9.2 million modes of transportation. As a result, more than 127,000 pounds of narcotics were interdicted.

In addition to interdicting illicit goods, the use of the NII system generates significant operational efficiencies. This allows CBP to save time and resources, while improving the effectiveness of its operations.

Federal Budget

The U.S. Congress has appropriated significant funds for CBP to acquire more NII systems and increase scanning rates.

When these systems are fully installed and operational, CBP expects to achieve significant goals. According to public reports, a scan rate of 40% for passenger vehicles and 90% for commercial vehicles is projected in areas where they are deployed.

While the use of NII improves operational efficiencies compared to physical inspections, it also creates challenges. The additional scanning results in a considerable increase in images requiring analysis and adjudication.