Basically, you want to make sure what you’re doing is legal before you try and do it and, potentially, run into trouble. The US might be known as a trade-friendly nation, but it still has strict laws and procedures that you must follow.
It’s up to you to become familiar with the legislation relevant to your business and products, including relevant trade barriers and tariffs. Trade barriers can include things like licenses and quotas for specific products to protect local companies and economies. Tariffs are a tax on exported or imported products, designed to safeguard the domestic industry.
If you want extra guidance with this - because it can be tricky! - you can contact the Office of International Trade. It sounds big and scary, but it’s set up to help small businesses compete in the global marketplace. If you’re wanting to import food or agricultural products, you’ll want to check with the Food and Safety Inspection Service, too.
As a small-scale importer, you’ll likely be relying somewhat on the experience of your chosen manufacturer, supplier or distributor in the export country, usually China. It’s important to build relationships with these people to ensure that they can be trusted and are meeting the standard of service required of them. It’s a good idea to arrange an in-person meeting to make sure everything is in order. It can help to give you peace of mind and it’s also good practice to make a personal connection with your business partners.
Importing bulk goods to the US is a lot more serious than running a dropshipping business or a simple eCommerce store. You should consider hiring an expert to guide you through the process, rather than solely relying on Youtube tutorials or blog articles like this one. Navigating the laws and regulations of importing to the US can be a really challenging process. It can be a good idea to hire a Customs Broker to help make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Depending on what you’re importing to the US, you may be required to obtain a specific license or permit. You can see the list of products that require a license or permit here.
Additionally, you will have to obtain a customs bond, which can be either single-entry or continuous. If you are planning to import goods to the US regularly, then a continuous customs bond is the better option. If you’re just doing one large shipment or you’re unsure of how often you’ll be importing, you can start with a single-entry bond and see how you go.
Again, you might want to consider tip #3 above when dealing with licenses, bonds and permits for importing to the US. The paperwork can be tricky and tiresome. Expert help might be beneficial for the first time around.
Running a business - especially one that involves importing goods to the US - requires ongoing education and training. You can learn by doing, but if you want to avoid beginner mistakes you can take short online courses or read widely to ensure you have a good understanding of how to import goods to the US.
You can find online courses about importing on:
Compliance is crucial when it comes to importing goods to the US. If you don’t get everything in order prior to your shipment arriving on US soil, you could face major fines that could cripple your business before it’s even started. That’s why it’s recommended that you hire a Customs Broker to ensure you’re compliant. It might cost a bit of money up front, but it can save you headaches and money long-term. An experienced Customs Broker can provide valuable advice, handle your paperwork, and ensure you’re compliant so that everything’s smooth sailing once your goods arrive in the US.
Your Customs Broker can also advise you as to which permits and licenses you need, if any. You should wait until your applications have been accepted before placing an import order.
Products that require a special license include food products, animal products, plants, prescription medication, trademarked items (branded goods), and copyrighted items (music, films etc). Visit this website to see if you require a permit or license for importing to the US.
Want to avoid paying $5000 to the US government? Then make sure you file the Import Security Filing, commonly known as “10+2”. It’s a requirement for goods arriving in the US by ship. If your goods are arriving by air, you don’t have to worry about this. Failure to comply with the rule could ultimately result in fines of up to $5000, increased inspections and delay of cargo. Again, this is something a Customs Broker could handle for you, but if you’re handling everything yourself, you need to be aware of this.
Once you’ve got all the paperwork sorted, you should contact the service port of entry near you, or the one your goods will be arriving at. You can ask to speak with a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer who specializes in the product you’re importing. They can provide you with specific product requirements and advise you of any extra things you need to do before your shipment sets sail.
Once you have the “OK” from the CBP officer and you’re confident that you’ve filed all the necessary paperwork, you can proceed with importing your goods.
Once your goods arrive at your port of entry in the US, you or your Customs Broker have to file another bunch of documents within five days. These documents include:
Once these documents have been filed and accepted, you can file the final two required documents. They are:
Once all documents have been accepted, you should consider your goods successfully imported to the US. You can finally take possession of them.
The import process is the same as above. You’re still responsible for handling all of the documents and ensuring everything is in order before your goods reach the US.
Amazon has its own requirements for goods being shipped to its fulfillment centers, which you can see here.
The main thing to note is that Amazon cannot be used as an Importer of Record (IOR) for your goods. The IOR is either you and your business or your designated Customs Broker.
Amazon can be the “deliver to” party or ultimate consignee for your imported goods, however you or your Customs Broker must contact Amazon at sellerimports@amazon.com in advance of shipping any inventory to obtain the EIN or Tax ID number required for customs clearance.
The main thing you need to consider when importing goods to Amazon FBA is whether you have them sent directly to Amazon, or you (or a middleman) take possession of the goods first and then forward them to Amazon.
Here are your two options:
Firstly, have your supplier ship your goods straight to the Amazon FBA warehouses.
Secondly, have your supplier ship your goods to yourself (or another middle-man), before rerouting it to the warehouses.
Let’s talk about the first option: shipping direct.
By shipping direct, you save on transit time, and on paying a middleman.
But here’s the thing:
You won’t get to inspect your products before they get handed over to your customers.
Unless you’ve been working with the same supplier for, like, a decade, and you’re super confident that they can deliver, I’d say that this is a pretty big issue.
There are some things you can do to get around this, such as requesting that your supplier text you photos before sending out all shipments, and using a third-party inspection company.
But at the end of the day, you’ll never be 100% sure that all of your customers are getting the right products, in the right size, and in the right colour.
Plus, there’s the possibility that your supplier will conveniently decide to stop doing business with you, and sell to Amazon directly instead.
Think about it:
You’re essentially giving your supplier a step-by-step guide on how to get started on Amazon FBA.
If it’s just ten or twenty items that you’re selling per month, nah, it won’t be enough to tempt your supplier.
But if you’re selling thousands of units or more?
You can bet your ass the gears in your supplier’s head will start turning. And when it comes down to it, there’s nothing that’s stopping them from cutting you out, and going directly to Amazon.
Okay, now for your other option.
Your supplier ships your products to a middleman, who in turn ships it to the Amazon FBA warehouses.
If you’re a small outfit and you don’t have large turnarounds, you might be able to eliminate the middleman, and take care of the rerouting yourself.
But if you’re a relatively established business with hundreds (or more!) orders coming in each month, it makes sense to hire a middleman, so that you can focus on the more strategic stuff.
Go ahead and Google “freight forwarder amazon fba” - there are tons of companies to choose from.
Two great things about using a middleman is that…
Firstly, you can run a quality check on your products when they arrive.
Secondly, your middleman is likely to be an expert in packing products for Amazon FBA, which means that there’s an extremely low chance of your shipment being rejected by Amazon.
But there’s no such thing as a free lunch in this world…
...and when working with a middleman, you can expect to pay receiving fees, pick and pack fees, and labelling fees, all of which might add up to quite a bit.
The specific fees vary from company to company, but here’s an example of what you might expect to pay:
Comments (64)
Eric on 8:51 13 Sep
Hi, I want to export clothing, and imitation jewelry from India. What and how much can be hand carried by air into the US?Tak on 18:17 12 Nov
Hi, any advise on how to import bath and beauty products from Thailand, made form 100% organic herbs. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks!Irene Vallejo on 3:50 15 Nov
Hi Tak! I think these links will help. http://www.fda.gov/ICECI/Inspections/InspectionGuides/ucm074952.htm http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductandIngredientSafety/ProductInformation/ucm203078.htm Cheers!Grace on 16:36 5 Sep
Hi Ms. Irene, I want to open online boutique business, selling clothes and shoes. How can I import goods in the Philippines here in US? What the first step I need to do, the cost for shipping and taxes? Thank youbahoombie on 21:57 12 Jan
Hi, I have some goods from China and I want to try to use freight by sea. How long does it take and what do I need to do? What are the lists of customs broker in my area since I don't live near the port, i am from Arizona , the closest port would be in California, what are my options ? Thanks.Irene Vallejo on 1:05 13 Jan
@bahoombie: Kindly refer to this post http://www.salehoo.com/education/importing-shipping/china-importing-logistics-and-storage The best way to find out how much you have to pay is by visiting your country’s customs website, and for USA - http://www.customs.gov Hope this helps. :)Ron Fitzsimmons on 18:23 28 Jan
I am looking to import from China 500-5,000 mobile phone screen cleaners at a time, a few times a month. They are very lightweight. Is there anything on my end that I need to know about? I.e., do I need to contact customs, worry about tariffs, etc.? Thanks, this is a great site!param on 19:06 28 Jan
Hi, I have some goods like textile, fabrics, steel items from India. how can i import them to USA. what is the process to be followed ? What is my first step , whom should I reach out for ? please give me more details... Thanks..Irene Vallejo on 3:20 30 Jan
@Ron: Yes, I believe you need to get as much information as you can before actually importing such bulk orders. :) As mentioned, the easiest way to find out what you may be charged is by searching for tariffs online at http://dataweb.usitc.gov/ and getting in touch with Customs http://www.customs.gov/Irene Vallejo on 3:23 30 Jan
@Param: Same advice as above, check for the tariffs online at http://dataweb.usitc.gov/ and get in touch with Customs at http://www.customs.gov/Vallae Rama Rao. on 11:45 21 Nov
I like because it is useful to understand the tariffs online and the customs procedures.Shipping from USA to Canada on 10:42 28 Mar
Thanks for giving useful information about export and import and also reminding us with the shipping charges...Keep sharing..KrazyKonga on 20:49 23 Feb
I am trying to remember and find out the name of a certain "Act" when importing goods into the US. Is there a place where I can look into the different "Acts" that are involved with importing.Richelle Monfort on 5:37 15 May
Hello KrazyKonga,This might help http://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Importing%20into%20the%20U.S.pdf Cheers!
Rod on 17:44 14 May
Hello, I have very little knowledge, if any, about importing food products from international market. The idea is to bring dairy products like ice cream made of dry milk & also ice cream made of sugar & flavored water. Other products would be condensed milk & a substance that is similar to condensed milk. The products are coming from Chile, South America. My question is, where do I begin to investigate how to bring this products into the United States. Should I contact a food distributor to penetrate & find exposure into the market?I have been given this opportunity by a family member to distribute through the United States but I honestly have no clue what or where to begin. Any feedback would be appreciated.
Richelle Monfort on 5:34 15 May
Hello Rod,To import any dairy products you need to get a permit from the FDA. I think you will find the information here https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/206/~/regulations-for-importing-dairy-products-for-commercial-use helpful!
Hope this helps :)
stuart on 13:41 18 Jun
hi,ive met a fashion sales agent in the usa who wants to import my fashion line for girls,womens garments and leather sandles from indonesia. what do i need to do ? do i need an import brocker in dallas as thats the destination. what import duties must i pay. any info to progress my situation would be appreciated.Melissa Johnson on 21:04 18 Jun
Hi, Stuart!Here are a few links that might help. You might also talk to the fashion sales agent directly, as they probably have some of these answers.
https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/list/search/1/kw/import%20clothing%20from%20china/suggested/1
https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/205/~/regulations-for-importing-textiles
http://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Importing%20into%20the%20U.S.pdf
http://www.sba.gov/community/blogs/importing-goods-us-%E2%80%93-introductory-guide-small-business-owners
Sam on 12:04 23 Jun
Hi ,Do I need work permit/ passport /visa "as I am overstaying my visa and I don't have work permit! " to start sending cloths to customers as an online cloths shop? & are the cost of shipping worth to send t-shirts ,suit ext. to euro or other countries from Bangkok? thank youRichelle Monfort on 22:39 24 Jun
Hello Sam,I don't think a working permit or visa is required for you to send clothes out of Bangkok. The risk there is a possible run in with the authorities, so as an overstaying foreigner that might get you in trouble.
Good luck!
ritu rana on 14:01 14 Nov
hello,I am planning on importing handicraft made of wood and MDF(mirror frames , wall panels, photo frames etc) from india l. What would be the duty on these items and can I pick my lot in Chicago?
Melissa Johnson on 20:36 15 Nov
Hi, Ritu --I can't actually tell you what the duty will be. It depends on what exactly you import, I think. I'm not sure what you mean by picking your lot in Chicago. Can you elaborate?
Manoj on 2:52 26 Jan
I am plannig to import some packaged food items non-dairy, non-meat. It is kind of snacks. Is there any specific label requirements for any good products to bring this to USA? If yes, where I can find more details?Also, if I need to bring some samples not like 20-30 pounds, do I need to go thru customs?
Melissa Johnson on 16:51 26 Jan
Hi, Manoj!I have no idea about customs. A couple links that might help, though:
https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/83/session/L2F2LzEvdGltZS8xNDIyMjkxMDUyL3NpZC9YZjRzTnFkbQ%3D%3D/~/travelers-bringing-food-into-the-u.s.-for-personal-use
http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/ImportsExports/Importing/ucm082154.htm
For labeling requirements, look to the US FDA:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/LabelingNutrition/ucm2006828.htm
http://www.fda.gov/Food/IngredientsPackagingLabeling/default.htm
Mike on 21:59 6 Feb
its a great and useful site on importing into U.S..One more question..I know you answered it but i am confused with other comments that i read in other sites..Thing is, I am planning to start online portal and planning to import(sell) from India to USA..I know you said i need to open the business tax number but i am not a citizen of USA and i will be going back to India after few months..Could you please tell us(me) do i need to stay here to start my online business and sell the products fro m india...also could you please tell more on tax related info end of each year and every product i sell..Melissa Johnson on 18:52 9 Feb
Hi, Mike --Honestly, I am not sure. Businesses are registered at the state level so I think part of it depends on what state you're in when you start the business. If you have a base of operations in the States, it's considered a nexus and you have to deal with sales tax.
I would speak to an accountant or attorney. They can help you best, especially since I don't know the specifics of your circumstances.
Nishant on 1:48 9 Jan
Hi mike,I am also looking to import clothes from India and sell them on Amazon. Can you please let me know what difficulties or formalities you went through.
Do I need to register for business.
Thanks,
Raymond Aleks on 13:13 13 Mar
Dear SaleHoo Representative;I would like some advise in importing an herbal balm / ointment product from Thailand. This product I would say
is similiar to Tiger Balm, used for pain relief and inflamation. Any suggestions concerning FDA, etc?
Melissa Johnson on 20:07 18 Mar
Hi, Raymond!Here are a couple of links that might help. I don't know all the details so it makes it hard to find exact information.
http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/default.htm
http://www.fda.gov/RegulatoryInformation/Guidances/ucm144657.htm
If nothing else, you might try googling "import [product] to US" and see what the results are and see what others have to say on the subject. Or talk to an imports expert.
Rugi on 1:39 4 Apr
I want to import plastic thermoware/hotpots casseroles from India. Is there a restriction on this.Harold Bieber on 16:10 29 Sep
I am looking to import items from Vietnam and I was wanting to do it buy bulk and by sea, How will I find out what it will cost me to do this I am around 2 hour away from the port. I also would used a import broker to do all the paper work I hope. I would like to see it hit land be off loaded and moved inland ASAP do you think this could happen.Melissa Johnson on 16:23 2 Oct
Hi, Harold!Your best bet is to talk to a customs broker or a freight company directly. Without knowing what products you're bringing in and how much, where you're storing goods, etc., I simply can't give you a good idea of what to expect. Your supplier may also be able to help -- though this certainly isn't true of every supplier.
Good luck!
Joe Salinas on 1:22 29 Feb
Hi..Have a question on exporting products from Indonesia example, unions, oranges, green pepper ext.. does the port of Brownsville do the import of products?
Melissa Johnson on 21:40 1 Mar
Hi, Joe -- Yes, you can import items through Brownsville. However, I am not able to locate specifics of what is or is not allowed. You'd be best talking to either the port or your shipping company, or a customs broker, about it!Caroline Ernest on 16:57 11 Mar
I appreciate the information received. Thanks much looking forward to continued relationship.Redo on 22:34 8 Jun
Hi,I want to Import product form China. How to know that product is not patented. Also If no patent on product can I bring in any available packaging or I have to have my own brand?
Melissa Johnson on 15:35 9 Jun
Hi there!I honestly don't know how patents work outside of the US. IP law tends to be complicated. It sounds like you might be interested in white label products?
A good place to ask is our forum, where a lot of other sellers hang out: https://www.salehoo.com/forum/ Our staff are on the forum as well!
Vijay patel on 5:55 17 Feb
Thanks I am looking for which type of good I import from India to for sell in USAMKa on 14:09 23 Feb
Hi,I have a question regarding the declaration of price of item. Price of item varies by country. If I am shipping from India what price of item I will declare at the time of shipment. Indian price or USA price.
Thanks
Justin Golschneider on 14:36 28 Feb
Hi there! The value is the total price paid by the buyer in the U.S., so you would declare the amount that you paid to the seller in India. It's a pretty complicated process, though, and it's often best to have a professional do it. If you want to do it yourself, I recommend downloading and reading the PDF that U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers on this page: https://www.cbp.gov/document/publications/importing-united-statesSam on 15:23 2 Mar
Hi, very useful article, thank you. Can you point me towards any information or resources for importing to the US from West Africa?Justin Golschneider on 13:31 3 Mar
Hi Sam! If you're based in the U.S., then the most important thing to think about is U.S. regulations. I recommend downloading and reading the PDF that U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers on this page: https://www.cbp.gov/document/publications/importing-united-statesYou may also find some useful materials on the Economic Community of West African States website: http://www.ecowas.int/
I hope that helps!
Sarima on 20:59 21 Mar
Great info! I'm actually trying to bring some house slippers from Spain to sell online. I want to test the waters fist though and I would first buy small quantities. Probably less than $1,000 wholesale price. So would I still have to pay duties, taxes etc?Thank you
Justin Golschneider on 12:55 23 Mar
Hi Sarima! I recommend creating an account at https://dataweb.usitc.gov/ and running a search to see if and what you will likely be charged. You should be able to get the info you need pretty quickly.Ronsie on 18:37 18 Apr
Hi, I want to import leather shoes from India to US. what are the legal procedures and paperwork that i will have to go through. Also will I have to register a trademark name , if i want to sell the shoes under my company name? I Reside in FL, so are there any special rules and regulations for labeling and registration. I want to buy shoes in wholesale and sell them under my company name, what is the procedure for that?Thanks.
Justin Golschneider on 11:55 19 Apr
Hi Ronsie! If you're based in the U.S., then I recommend downloading and reading the PDF that U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers on this page: https://www.cbp.gov/document/publications/importing-united-statesThat provides the details on importing.
Trademark names are used to protect product names, phrases, slogans, etc. If you want to create your own shoe brand like Ronsie Oxfords, then registering a trademark would be important for protecting your unique shoes.
However, if you're just reselling Nikes at Ronsie's Shoe Store or something like that, then you shouldn't need to register any trademarks. As long as you have a taxpayer identification number for your business, you'll be all set.
For instructions on registering your business in Florida, see this state of Florida website: http://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/start-business/
Justin Golschneider on 11:59 19 Apr
I should also add that you will need to register a DBA (Doing Business As) if you sell under a name different from your business's legally registered name. For example, if your business is legally named Ronsie's, LLC, and you want to sell shoes under the name Ronsie's Shoe Store, then you would need to register Ronsie's Shoe Store as a DBA.Claudia on 14:11 22 Apr
Hello, I am planning a trip to Thailand and would like to go sourcing to bring some products back into USA. I recently went to China and ordered some products that are on the way, but I went there with a group of people that were just purchasing...not on vacation. This time, I will be on vacation but want to check out a market or two if possible. Any recommendations? I will be going sometime between Jun 15 - July 31, 2017. Thanks!Chandrashekhar Ranadive on 20:25 8 May
We want Export variety of Home used Items of pure Aluminium like Lemon Squeezer, Chakali Making etc. These are made on PDC Machine & Power Coated. These are already sold in Indian Market in large Quantities regularly.Nathalie on 16:19 25 Jun
I want to import clothing from France. Could you give me some pointers? ThanksJustin Golschneider on 10:53 26 Jun
Hi Nathalie! Importing from France should be no different from importing from anywhere else in the EU. :-) You shouldn't have any trouble if you follow the steps laid out in this article.Vijaya Thangamuthu on 19:30 23 Jul
Hi.. I'm planning to import t-shirts from India and sell it in US. I'm not sure if I need to get any import license to import t-shirts into US. I'm aware that I need to register a company, ( I'm based out of California) but was not sure if any special import license is required. ThanksJustin Golschneider on 14:41 24 Jul
Hi Vijay! To the best of my knowledge, you will not need any special license. You may want to write in to our support team to confirm. Note that Customs and Border Patrol are very serious about catching counterfeit clothes and the people who sell them, so I recommend sticking with vetted suppliers from our directory.Vijaya Thangamuthu on 23:58 25 Jul
Thanks for the information Justin. Just curious about the counterfeit part?? Do you have more information on Counterfeit items, like what all things I should avoid when importing textile into US and things like that!!Justin Golschneider on 10:50 27 Jul
We have an article on the topic here: https://www.salehoo.com/blog/uncovered-the-shocking-truth-about-counterfeit-goodsAnd this one on avoiding scam suppliers: https://www.salehoo.com/blog/smart-sourcing-steps-to-protect-you-from-being-ripped-off
If you follow those tips and use our suppliers, you shouldn't run into any trouble. :-)
Trang Do on 3:06 17 Aug
Hello, I have very little knowledge, if any, about importing furniture from Vietnam. The idea is to bring furniture, tables or legs made by wood and they are handmade. My question is, where do I begin to investigate how to bring this products into the United States. Any feedback would be appreciated.Justin Golschneider on 13:23 17 Aug
Hi Trang Do! You can download the official documentation as a PDF on this page (on the right): https://www.cbp.gov/document/publications/importing-united-statesIf you can't make heads or tails of the rules, I recommend speaking to a customs broker—they can take care of all the red tape for you.
Trang Do on 1:54 31 Aug
Thank you so much.Justin Golschneider on 12:25 1 Sep
You're very welcome :-) Our support staff is also happy to help out if you get stuck—you can reach them here: https://www.salehoo.com/supportRadu on 1:48 27 Sep
Hi Richelle,Thank you for the information shared with us.
Could you please tell me what is correct for cosmetic products labels imported from EU: made in EU or made in a specific country of EU?
Thank you,
Radu
Justin Golschneider on 19:10 27 Sep
Hi Radu! You need to mention the specific country. From the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website at the following link: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/rulings/informed-compliance-publications/marking-country-origin-us-imports"Every article of foreign origin entering the United States must be legibly marked with the English name of the country of origin unless an exception from marking is provided for in the law."
" 'E.C.' or 'E.U.' for European Community or European Union, respectively, are not acceptable abbreviations since they do not indicate the individual country of origin of the good."
darbani widjaja on 1:51 4 Oct
I have been searching for answer in FDA website and have not found it yet. I am hoping you can help me out. is it right that manufactures or food processing facility in foreign country has to register or be approved by FDA so that their products can be imported into US? If that is true, some thousands of imported products in US market are like home made food products that I don't think their processing facilities will meet FDA standard. However, those products are in the market with just a nutrition fact label.I intend to import instant coffee or so called 3 in 1 white coffee(instant coffee with cream in it). Beside nutrition facts on the packaging, do I need FDA approval ? Does FDA need to certify the food facilities in origin country? Thanks in advance for any help
Audrey C. on 22:04 1 Sep
I have the same question as well!Connor Martin on 0:18 21 Oct
Within the next 1-2 months I will be manufacturing and importing about a 20ft shipping container worth of halloween type costumes. I have never imported anything, let alone a full shipping container's worth of product. I would love some help in where, besides this article (which is very helpful), I could look for information to my situation. I know I may have gotten in over my head and I'll have to hire a customs agency to take care of it for this first time through. But I would still like to understand their process more than just what they'll tell me they did. Would really appreciate some help and great article to start with!Richelle Monfort on 6:32 30 Oct
Hello Connor,These might help give you a better idea of the steps:
https://www.usa.gov/import-export
https://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export
Hope this helps you with your first import!
SNSsanali on 17:44 24 Oct
Hello, I am in the process of importing real jewelry (Gold, White Gold, Silver) to the states from India. Can anyone list any steps for me or an article that can help? Also I can't seem to find what the duty on jewelry would be. Some are saying 5% and some 50%. Any help would be greatly appreciated.Richelle Monfort on 6:30 30 Oct
Hello SNSsanali,According to pitneybowes.com - Import duty & taxes for Finished jewelry. The import duty rate for importing Finished jewelry into United States is 5.5% , when classified under Jewellery & Watches → Jewellery of precious metals → Gold Jewellery. other - without jadeite / rubies with HS commodity code 7113.19.5090. Hope this helps!
visu on 18:47 16 Sep
Hi, if we want to import gold for a non profit organization cause for free distribution to donors. can you let us know what is the process and how will be the % of import tax and all?Pietro on 10:13 10 Jan
Hello Justin, Thanks for the article, very helpful. I'm planning on importing Fashion goods (leather jackets) from Italy to California.I would like to know where and how i am going to pay the duties and taxes and if you recommend any particular shipment service.
Richelle Monfort on 6:25 7 Feb
Hello Pietro,You will have to check with your country's importation bureau, for most countries is there is a fixed tariff for specific products and value imported into the country.
Cheers!
catherine white on 17:54 31 May
Hi!What are good shipment companies located in Florence, ITALY to get the goods from there to USA, specifically mclean, VA?
Samantha Ranaraja on 21:26 2 Feb
If I am importing from cusco how would I get it from the port to my residential address? Do i need to hire a freight forwarder to pick it up from the port?Richelle Monfort on 6:30 7 Feb
Hi Samantha,Yes, if your shipping arrangement is only up to the pier only then you will have to contact a local truck/courier to pick-up your shipment from the pier and bring it to your residential address. Best you clarify this part with your supplier if they are arranging your shipment for you.
Cheers!
peter on 7:21 18 Oct
Hi there,Do I still need a business tax number if I am in Canada and I don't really have a business in the US?
I don't have a US address.
I am planning on shipping to FBA in the US directly.
Thanks.
Rhea Bontol on 6:09 29 Oct
Normally, large suppliers require you of a sales tax ID to avoid problems with tax audits. You can provide a sales tax ID you've acquired in Canada though, even if you sell via FBA in the US.Alex on 15:08 3 Jan
Hi, I'm not a US citizen but i have wine company In China and i want to start shipping my Wine into the US any advice?Kimberly Weigert on 2:29 6 Jan
I want to start importing wood products from Indonesia. How can I find a good supplier who will not scam me?Rhea Bontol on 6:32 7 Jan
SaleHoo suppliers have all been verified as being safe to deal with. You can send SaleHoo Support an email requesting for supplier search here: https://www.salehoo.com/contactandrea on 6:54 29 Jan
Can you provide some additional infomation on restrictions, if any, for handicraft in small batches, i.e. under 10 pieces and coming from several artisans from Mexico? It would be for an individual as these would be testing and not the actual merchandise to sell. I appreciate your help!Rhea Bontol on 4:28 1 Feb
It would be best if you contact your local authorities in Mexico to familiarize yourself with the said restrictions. That way, you'll be sure to avoid any hurdles importing them from Mexico.Marco on 15:11 20 Feb
hi guysvery useful article and thanks so much. i'd like to start to import food from Italy. any other useful link or tips you are able to share?
thanks
Ivonne Perez on 21:27 16 Mar
I'm planning to start a business on Chilean product, like chocolate, cookies, Milo, etc etc is more like snacks products. What do I need to do , what is my first step? Can I do a direct import from distributors there or I need somebody else to purchase the product for me? and send it? I'm clueless on what to do. Any help will be really appreciated. Thank you so much.Rhea Bontol on 6:26 18 Mar
Hi Ivonne! Decide whether you'll be doing dropshipping, or wholesaling. The first thing you need to do is contact a supplier and let them know your business plan. Don't forget to ask for the requirements needed for selling their items. If you decide to purchase items in bulk (or by container load), a customs broker may be needed to handle tariffs, and other import/export regulations. Otherwise if you only intend to dropship, just complete the requirements needed from your supplier then ask for their product catalog so you can start listing items for sale.Kowide Outdoors on 6:37 25 Mar
This is quite a helpful post. A lot of brands suffer because their manufacturers in other countries are not aware of the laws within the US. This is mainly due to inexperience and a low number of US clients. This is why it's always advised to work with manufacturers that are dealing with US clients as they usually have all the necessary steps in place to help the brand bring in their products without too much hassle. Whether it's a custom backpack manufacturer, garment manufacturer or phone manufacturer, always ensure they have a strong US client base as this means they are already familiar with the laws.Rhea Bontol on 0:43 7 Jun
Agree with you on this. Saves a lot of time and money, too!Aaron on 20:24 25 Jul
This is a great article! Thanks! When you mention you say "These are charged as a percentage of the value of the merchandise (for example: 5%)." My question is about the value of the merchandise. Are we talking retail value? What I will sell my product for? Or the invoice value that I paid to my manufacturer? I will be shipping three pallets of one product for a total of 2000 units.Thanks!!
larry a ashworth on 15:10 2 Sep
i have apparel company in the phillipines i know the customers in the u.s would like but how do i send to a us customer with out the shipping costing more than productView more comments...