Become A
Foreign-Trade Zone
In Central Indiana
Operating in an FTZ can help you save money, increase efficiency, and stay competitive in the global marketplace. All you need to do is get in the zone!
As your local Grantee, the Indianapolis Airport Authority can sponsor your application to become a designated FTZ site. This allows you to access all the benefits of the Foreign-Trade Zone program from your own facility in Central Indiana.
Can my site become an FTZ?
Whether you’re a manufacturer or a distributor, any non-retail business in Indiana can potentially become a designated FTZ site.
Indiana is one of five states with 100% access to the Foreign-Trade Zone program, meaning that every county is within an FTZ service area. INzone and the Indianapolis Airport Authority are responsible for the Central Indiana FTZ (#72), which includes the 41 counties surrounding the Indianapolis International Airport.
If you’re not located in Central Indiana, check out our FTZ Service Area Map to find the grantee who can sponsor your application!
The FTZ Application Process
From application submission to board approval, the FTZ application process typically takes between 30 and 90 days to complete under the Alternative Site Framework. But activating your site through Customs will take an additional couple weeks, depending on the scale of your operations.
Please note that this guide does not serve as an official consultation. We highly recommend that interested companies partner with a professional FTZ consultant to ensure that their application is completed correctly.
Designation
Application
Activation
Designation
Submit Request for Designation
Send INzone a formal letter requesting FTZ Designation for your site, outlining your operations and the corresponding economic impact on the community.
INzone Board Review
The board responsible for administering the Central Indiana FTZ (#72) will review your designation request and recommend that the Indianapolis Airport Authority sponsor your application.
Application
Sign Operator Agreement
Applicants must sign and submit an FTZ Operator Agreement to the Indianapolis Airport Authority, accepting the responsibilities associated with managing an FTZ.
Grantee Board Review
The Indianapolis Airport Authority will review your application and issue a Grantee Sponsorship Letter upon approval.
Federal Board Review
Your FTZ consultant will submit your application and the Grantee Sponsorship Letter to the federal FTZ Board in Washington D.C.
FTZ Approval
The federal FTZ Board will process your request and provide an official Approval Letter designating your site an FTZ. This process can take up to 30 days for distribution companies and up to 90 days for manufacturing operations.
Activation
Activate Your Site
You and your FTZ consultant will work with U.S. Customs & Border Protection to implement necessary procedures and ensure compliance.
What To Expect During The Activation Phase
This part of the FTZ process is entirely governed by U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP). They will outline all steps necessary to activate your site and begin zone activity at your facility.
But generally, CBP will require you to submit an activation application packet, including essential documentation such as CBP Form 216 and CBP Form 301. All paperwork will be filed directly with your local CBP office.
At this time, you will also implement an FTZ software solution for your facility. This automated inventory control software is the best way to ensure you fulfill your Customs reporting obligations and keep your zone running smoothly. You can check with your software provider to ensure you have a Customs Compliance module.
CBP will then perform a physical security inspection of your site to ensure it meets their standards. Once all requirements are met, Customs will issue an official Concurrence Letter, giving you permission to begin FTZ operations.
Interested In Applying?
Applying?
Start With A Free
Feasibility Study
Interested In Applying?
Start With A Free
Feasibility Study
Before you apply, we recommend contacting a qualified FTZ consultant who can be your partner throughout the process. They will begin with a feasibility study to estimate your potential costs and determine the return on your investment, so you can make an informed decision on whether FTZs are right for your business.
If you’re in Central Indiana, INzone will cover the cost of this feasibility study, paying up to $2,500 for distribution and $5,000 for manufacturing operations.
You may choose to work with any FTZ consultant from our pre-approved list — or select one of your own. Simply notify us ahead of time, so we can evaluate their qualifications and ensure they will provide you with the best experience.