Importing is not an easy job, and if you are new to importing in U.S.A. you must know that there are a lot of regulations, restrictions and requirements to be eligible to import into the American territory. There are lots of goods that cannot enter the American market like a product manufactured in an embargoed country or a product regulated by the FDA. You need to have a very clear knowledge of US custom rules and regulations and be aware of the tariff lists.
Services like Clearit USA provide expert solutions from logistics to custom clearance for different import businesses.
Mentioned below are some tips that may help you with your imports in U.S.A.-
Need of a custom broker
Depending on the type of products of their total worth, you may or may not require a custom broker. On products worth under $2500, US custom allows informal entry for the goods. However, if the goods you are getting come under any regulation from the FDA, any quotas, regulations or restrictions etc; you won’t be eligible for this exemption.
This is when you would require a custom broker as they will help you with the paper work related to the formal entry and will prepare all the documentation and submit it to the respective agency.
Import documents
In order to import anything into the US market, you need a specified set of documentations. They are:-
- Commercial/custom invoice
- OGD documents
- Commodity specific requirements or documents
- Lading bill
Meet the requirements for specific commodities
Specific commodities and OGD requirements are dependent upon the government standards about things like energy, safety, efficiency etc. your imported product may need to meet the minimum requirements if the fall into eligibility criteria. Always ensure that you product meets the local requirement before starting the shipping only. You can have a look at government websites related to standards to find out the requirements.
Pay import taxes, duties and fee
Do a proper research about different fee, taxes and duties that you as an importer might have to pay. These things mainly depend upon the nature of products and their origin. Website of US customs will provide you with all the necessary details required to understand them as well. The IOR is responsible for paying them. If you have a custom broker by your side, then he is eligible to perform different paper works and pay the taxes, duties and fee on your behalf.
