Features of exporting to the USA

Exporting goods to the United States is a process that may seem complicated and risky for beginners. However, with the right preparation and knowledge of the procedures, you can successfully establish exports and expand your business. In this guide, we will take a detailed look at all the important steps that will help you organize exports to the United States.

1. Preparing for import

Exporters should keep in mind that not all goods require a license to import into the United States. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) does not require mandatory licenses, but some federal agencies, such as the FDA, EPA, DOT, and others, may have requirements depending on the type of product.

Goods that require special authorization:

• Food
• Medicines (including prescription drugs)
• Animals and plants
• Branded goods (shoes, bags, etc.)

It is important to find out in advance which agencies regulate your product and prepare the appropriate documents.

Customs Bond:

A customs bond is a legal obligation that guarantees that all required duties and taxes will be paid when goods are imported. CBP requires such a bond for commercial goods valued at more than $2,500.

The bond involves three parties: the insurance company, the importer, and the customs service. If you are working with a customs broker, they can help you with the bond.

Importer number:

An Importer Number is an identification number required to clear goods when they are imported into the United States. You can use your IRS number (or social security number if you don't have a business), or you can get a special number from CBP by filling out CBP Form 5106.

2. Selecting the goods to export

Choosing the right product is a key step to export success. It is recommended to choose products that meet your interests and have a stable demand in the US market. You should also avoid products that are associated with high tariffs and complex regulatory controls.

How to choose a product for export:

• Research market trends: Study products that are popular on platforms such as Amazon.
• Private Label production: This will allow you to offer unique value-added products that will increase your competitive advantage.

Products to avoid:

• Products of well-known brands (e.g., iPhone, Nike) - their prices are usually lower in the United States.
• Products with high tariffs (electronics, cars) or special regulations (food, medicines).

3. Finding reliable suppliers

Finding reliable suppliers is one of the key steps in exporting. Options include attending international trade fairs such as the Canton Fair or using large online platforms such as Alibaba and Made-in-China.

Where to look for suppliers:

• Offline: Exhibitions in China, such as Canton Fair, Yiwu Wholesale Market, and in Hong Kong (e.g., electronics, toys, jewelry exhibition).
• Online: Alibaba, Made-in-China, and GlobalSources provide access to a wide range of suppliers.

However, you should be careful when working with new suppliers and check them for fraud

4. Shipping your products to the United States

When your product is ready, the next step is to choose a shipping method. The main options include sea, air, courier, or postal delivery. The choice depends on the volume, value of the product, and delivery time.

Delivery methods:

• Courier services (UPS, FedEx, DHL): Suitable for small shipments (up to 500 kg), usually the delivery time is 4-7 days.
• Air transportation: Recommended for shipments weighing 1000 lbs (454 kg) or more. It is faster than sea freight, but also more expensive.
• Sea freight: A more cost-effective option for large volumes (2 cubic meters and above). Although delivery takes 25-40 days, the cost of sea freight is 80% lower compared to air freight.

Delivery terms:

• FOB (Free on Board): FOB prices do not include transportation costs, insurance and freight.
• CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): Includes all costs of transportation and insurance.

5. Customs clearance and fees

After the goods arrive in the United States, they must be cleared through customs within 15 days of arrival. For this, you need the following documents: bill of lading, invoice, and packing list. You can hire a customs broker to help you with the paperwork and fees.

Documents required for customs:

• Bill of Lading (B/L) — confirms the shipment of the goods.
• Invoice — required to calculate the customs value.
• Packing list — contains information about the goods and packaging.

Payment of fees:

Customs fees are calculated using the formula:
Customs duty = customs value × duty rate
The customs value is determined by the value of the goods and additional costs (delivery to the port, insurance, etc.). The duty rate depends on the HTS code and the country of origin.

6. Certification of goods

Imported goods to the United States must meet safety and quality standards. Depending on the product category, there may be different certification requirements. For example, food is subject to FDA control, and electronics must meet safety standards.

 

Mandatory certifications:

• Country of origin labeling: All goods must be labeled, for example, “Made in China”.
• Product certification: Certain categories of goods (medicines, electronics) require certification, which should be checked in advance with a customs broker or freight forwarder.