U.S. Customs Entry Requirements

Navigating Global Trade, Protecting Your Business.

Importing goods into the United States involves navigating a complex web of regulations and standards from various agencies. We simplify the process by providing expert guidance on customs declarations, FDA reviews, environmental compliance, and more. Whether it’s ensuring your shipments meet domestic requirements or addressing specific concerns like marking rules or restrictions on endangered species, we offer the legal expertise needed to avoid delays, penalties, and complications. Let us help you streamline your import process with confidence.

CBP entry requirements

  • All imported goods must be declared to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Entry documents must be filed within 15 days of the shipment's arrival at a U.S. port of entry
  • The importer of record is responsible for arranging the examination and release of the goods
  • Entries over $2,500 require a formal entry with a customs bond
  • Failure to make payment or provide legal justification of non-payment may result in suspension of immediate release privileges

Food & Drug Administration review

The USDA offers import and export programs to help US agricultural producers compete in the global marketplace

  • The FDA reviews all imported shipments of FDA-regulated products
  • Products must comply with the same standards as domestic products.
  • Country of origin marking
  • Clock movements must be marked on the most visible part of the front or back plate
  • CITES: The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) bans the importation of trophies from endangered species
  • NHTSA: Items that are not manufactured to comply with the applicable standard must be removed from the assemblage and exported or destroyed before entry
  • The Border Center provides information to help understand and comply with environmental laws