How to Clear Customs When Importing to the USA
If you’re new to importing, or about to import for the first time, you may feel a little stressed about your goods clearing customs.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulates every piece of cargo that comes into the country, and they have a strict set of rules to follow. However, once you stick to them, everything should run as smoothly as possible.
Here’s how to do it:
Understand What ‘Commercial Merchandise’ Means
There are several factors that determine if a shipment needs to be considered ‘commercial merchandise’ for U.S. customs purposes.
It’s important to note that even if your shipment isn’t technically for commercial use, you may be required to proceed as if it were.
If your shipment matches any of the factors below, you can expect that it will need to clear customs.
- High Quantities: Importing a large number of the same item is going to be considered as commercial goods.
- Type of Goods: Some items, such as industrial machinery, are required to be classified as commercial.
- Cost: If the item is valued at over $2,500, it needs to be treated as commercial goods.
- End Use: Even if the product is going straight into the hands of its final customer, if it is used in a business, it has to be imported as commercial goods.
- Intent to be Sold/Distributed: If you import something with the intent to resell it, then it clearly must be considered commercial merchandise.
In the end, the CBP has the final say on what is ‘personal’ and what is ‘commercial’, so play it safe and do things the right way.
Have Your Documents in Order
Getting your documents filled out accurately, is a huge part of getting your imports through customs.
Be sure to double-check everything, as a small mistake could end up costing you a lot of time and money.
Here are the required documents:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading
- Customs Bond
- CBP Form 3461
- CBP Form 7501
- Arrival Notice
- Commodity Specific Documentation
- Importer Security Filing (if your cargo is coming in on an ocean vessel)
Don’t Wait Around!
Once cargo has arrived at the port of entry, the importer (that’s you) must clear it for release within 30 days. After 30 days, if you or a consignee have not come forward to claim the import, you lose the rights to the cargo.
Customs then has the right to auction the cargo off. The proceeds would be used to cover the costs incurred by storing the abandoned cargo.
Truly Tip: A Customs Broker is not required for importing to the U.S., but they can make the process much easier for you.
If you have the scope to obtain a broker’s service, that’s also worth looking into.
If you’re looking for a reliable customs broker, or more information about using one, The National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) is a good place to start.
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