What characterizes bonded cargo?

Bonded cargo is characterized by its high value or security requirements, which necessitate specific handling and storage protocols. Goods that fall under this category are usually subjected to customs regulations and may be held in a designated bonded area until all customs duties and taxes are properly paid. This ensures that items deemed valuable or sensitive are monitored and controlled, reducing the risk of theft or damage during transport.

Heavy machinery, fragile items, and perishable goods, while they may have specific handling requirements, do not inherently fall into the category of bonded cargo based solely on their characteristics. Heavy machinery could be valuable, but its designation as bonded depends on other factors as well. Fragile items and perishable goods rely more on how they are packaged and stored rather than being classified as bonded cargo. Therefore, it is the high value or security concern that distinctly classifies bonded cargo.