Manufacturers, distributors and suppliers are all candidates for FTZ subzones. General Electric now manufactures refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, washing machnes and clothes dryers in an FTZ Subzone. This helps GE keep prices down and be more competitive in both U.S. and foreign markets. Hewlett Packard, trying to stay price competitive in the computer and electronics industry, operates their manufacturing facilities in FTZ subzones. Each company's savings opportunity is unique.
Many companies have no idea of the actual costs they incur.
Like cost savings, the length of the application process will vary by company. Normally, the application and approval by the U.S. Commerce Department is approximately six months to one year. It's easy to check out the benefits of using a General Purpose Zone or establishing a Subzone.