Welcome & Opening Remarks
Misclassification isn’t just an error—it’s a liability. Incorrect HTS or ECCN designations can lead to costly tariffs, penalties, audits, and even False Claims Act violations. In this three-hour virtual program, sponsored by Avalara, AAEI brings together leading practitioners and importers to unpack the foundations, applications, and enforcement dimensions of classification. Gain practical tools to protect your company from compliance risks while unlocking cost savings opportunities hidden in the tariff schedule.
Key Takeaways
- A comprehensive understanding of how classification drives compliance and business decisions
- Practical guidance on classifying complex products, materials, and special tariff provisions
- Clarity on “reasonable care” responsibilities and the risks of misclassification
- Strategies to reduce audit exposure and protect against costly enforcement actions
Speakers
- Craig Reed, General Manager of Cross-Border, Avalara
- Eugene Laney, President & CEO, AAEI
- Lenny Feldman, Managing Partner, Operating Committee, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
Session 1
Foundations: The Role of Classification in Global Trade
Classification sits at the core of trade compliance, influencing tariffs, admissibility, reporting, and more. This session explores the core principles of HTS classification and their role in building compliant and strategic trade operations. Speakers will examine how classification impacts tariff exposure, landed costs, and sourcing decisions, and share approaches for maintaining accuracy across global product lines. The discussion will also address governance models, technology trends, and the broader business risks of misclassification.
Speakers
- Tom Gould, Chief Strategy and Compliance Officer, Gaia Dynamics
Leah Lang, Senior Manager, Tax, Trade & Customs, KPMG
Christopher Smith, Customs Trade Advisor, IKEA Purchasing Services, Inc.
Session 2
Applications: Navigating Derivatives, Tariffs, and Special Provisions
Beyond the basics, classification gets complicated fast. This session dives into real-world classification challenges—from derivatives of steel, copper, and aluminum to tariff actions under Sections 232 and 301. Speakers will also cover special provisions under Chapter 98, including U.S. goods returned and prototypes, plus the nuances of classifying parts of a whole. Expect practical examples that tie classification to reasonable care obligations and cost savings opportunities.
Speakers
- Tom Cook, Managing Director at Blue Tiger International
- Aaron Gothelf, VP, Assistant General Counsel – Global Trade & Regulatory, The Walt Disney Company
- Filipp Zaborenko, Instructor, Global Training Center
Session 3
Enforcement: Reasonable Care, Audits, and Compliance Risks
What does “reasonable care” really mean in classification? This session unpacks the compliance expectations and enforcement landscape, including how companies should prepare for and respond to Customs audits. Experts will discuss the consequences of misclassification, from penalties to False Claims Act exposure, and provide strategies for mitigating risk and strengthening your compliance posture.
Speakers
- Richard DiNucci, Senior International Trade Advisor, Venable, LLP
- Kathy Neal, Global Trade Compliance Director, Johnson Controls, Inc.
- Randy Rucker, Partner, Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
NCBFAA Educational Institute (NEI) has approved this program for 3 credits for CCS/MCS, CES/MES, LCB credit type(s). You must attend the live event to receive the code and link to submit for credit.
