TUCSON, AZ -- According to experts, five challenging issues confront companies navigating Customs between the US and Mexico.

In a new podcast, Jim Clarke, vice president of new business development at Focus Business Solutions, a customs and trade management firm, explains the ins and outs of

• Tariff Classification - It is critical that companies use the correct Customs classification for the goods that they are importing and/or exporting.
• NAFTA Claims - Manufacturers must correctly substantiate claims that their goods are subject to preferential duty treatment.
• Customs Valuations - Parties involved in international trade between Mexico and the U.S. must make sure that they state the value of their merchandise correctly.
• Customs Reconciliation - Importers and Exporters must understand the process by which information submitted to Customs in error can be corrected.
• Audits - Manufacturers must understand what is required to successfully pas audits and examinations conducted by the Customs service.

According to Clarke, "Many times there are very common errors related to U.S.-Mexico trade in the area of Customs. It doesn't matter what the size of the company is. If importers and exporters don't have direct knowledge of critical issues or someone on staff that has the experience in this area, they can run into difficulties."

The 40-minute podcast is sponsored by The Offshore Group, a provider of outsourced business support, "shelter" services in Mexico.