Foreign companies often begin U.S. sales before fully considering who will act as importer of record and how customs documentation will be handled. Those questions become harder to solve when cargo is already moving.
Items to address early
- Importer-of-record structure and company documentation.
- Power of Attorney and broker onboarding.
- Customs bond requirements.
- Commercial invoice and shipment-document flow.
- Product classification, origin and marking.
- FDA, CPSC, USDA or other PGA information where applicable.
Courier shipments are not a long-term import plan
A process used for occasional lower-value express shipments may not be appropriate as shipment values, frequency or regulatory complexity increase. Companies expecting recurring U.S. sales should review the import model before volume grows.
Expect importer verification
Customs brokers must know who they are representing. Foreign entities should be prepared to provide business and identity documentation appropriate to the onboarding and transaction.
General information only. This article is intended for general educational purposes. Customs and regulatory treatment depends on the specific merchandise, transaction, entry status, timing and applicable authorities. A transaction-specific review may require a separate professional engagement.