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Blog: Importing goods to the USA

Importing goods to the USA

Importing goods to the USA is a difficult matter. There are several things that you should consider before importing anything. In fact, you need to have permission from the Customs and Border Protection(CBP). Beare in mind that the process of importing goods may vary depending on the nature of the goods to import.

Before importing you need to have the following documents:

  • Commercial Invoice (Invoice from the seller to the buyer)
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading
  • Entry Manifest (CBP Form 7533) or Application and Special Permit for Immediate Delivery (CBP Form 3461)
  • Evidence of Bond
  • Entry Summary (Form 3501)

The USA is one of the fewest countries that does not require an import license in many cases. However, there are a few situations where a license is required.

To obtain such a certificate you will have to fill in and execute the U.S. International Import Certificate form (Form BIS-645P/ATF-4522/DSP-53) and submit it to the U.S. government agency that has jurisdiction over the items you are importing.

Culture of the USA

The culture of the USA is an incredible melting pot of hundreds of different cultures from all around the world. In addition to the Native Indian Americans, the country was built on immigration from other countries.

The USA is the third largest economy in the world and is home to 332 million people. The incredible diversity that makes this country so great, is also reflected in its food. Different types of meat and vegetables are constantly mixed to create delicious meals!

Finally, is worth mentioning that culture in the USA means also sport. In fact, there are an estimated 2 million fans who support sports such as football, baseball, basketball, and hockey, among other sports.

culture in the USA

Things to Know About U.S. Culture

When talking about the USA you should think big! In this country, everything from food to cars comes in a bigger size. Many restaurants offer meals in big sizes and it is not uncommon to take the leftovers at home with you. Americans seem to have a weakness for large cars. It is very common to spot giant SUVs in parking lots everywhere you will go.

Part of the American culture is also making small talks. This type of conversations can cover a broad range of topics. So don’t be puzzled if at the bus stop or whilst in line someone will start talking with you about the weather.

Finally, Americans are famous for their independence. From a very young age, they are thought to be independent and self-sufficient. This is why after graduating from high school lots of students find their college far away from their homes.

American Work Culture

The American workplace is highly competitive and highly demanding. Although Americans feel that a job should be fulfilling they also believe that there should be a better balance between work and private life. Lastly, the United States is surprisingly behind the rest of the world in terms of vacation days and paid time off.

culture in the USA

Moving from Michigan to the Netherlands: Rachel’s Dutch Experience

“The Netherlands is a blend of historic charm and modern innovation!”

Hi, I’m Rachel. Two years ago, I moved from Detroit to Amsterdam, Netherlands. The experience has been transformative, and I want to share how this move has enriched my life and broadened my horizons.

At 33, I sought new professional opportunities and a deeper cultural experience. The Netherlands, with its rich history and modern lifestyle, was the perfect destination. While leaving behind my life in Detroit was challenging, the excitement of new possibilities kept me motivated.

Moving Process

Packing for the move was a meticulous task. I decided to bring only essential items and some personal mementos. To facilitate the move, I contacted ReloAdvisor. Their service was excellent, providing quick quotes and helpful advice. Their support made my international relocation smoother and less stressful.

Securing a visa was the next step. I applied for a work visa, which involved detailed paperwork and coordination with the Dutch embassy. The process was complex, but with careful planning, I successfully obtained my visa.

Tips

Pack only the essentials. I moved 15 medium boxes, ensuring everything was well-protected. The professional movers recommended by ReloAdvisor ensured all my belongings arrived safely.

Research is crucial before moving internationally. I read extensively about the Netherlands, watched informative videos, and sought advice from friends who had moved there. Understanding the culture and lifestyle helped me adapt quickly.

Ensure your visa application is thorough and submitted well in advance. Each visa type has specific requirements, so gather all necessary documents early.

Maintain communication with your moving company throughout the process. Regular updates and reassurances from the movers kept my stress levels down.

Living in Amsterdam has been a dream come true, and I’m delighted with my new life here. I encourage anyone considering a move to prepare well and embrace the adventure ahead.

Moving from North Carolina to New Zealand: Mike’s Kiwi Journey

“New Zealand is the epitome of natural beauty and a relaxed lifestyle!”

Hello, I’m Mike. A year ago, I decided to move from Charlotte to Auckland, New Zealand. My love for nature and a desire for a slower-paced life motivated this significant change. Here’s my story.

In my early 30s, I was searching for a fresh start in a place celebrated for its stunning landscapes and friendly people. New Zealand was the ideal choice. Although leaving my life in Charlotte was tough, the promise of new adventures inspired me to stay focused.

Moving Process

Packing for the big move was quite a challenge. Eventually, I decided to bring only the essentials and a few sentimental items. To streamline the process, I enlisted the help of ReloAdvisor. Their service was outstanding—they promptly provided multiple quotes and guided me through every step. Their support significantly eased the stress of my international move.

Securing a visa was the next hurdle. I applied for a skilled migrant visa and actively engaged with New Zealand immigration. The process required extensive paperwork and a great deal of patience. Nevertheless, my persistence paid off, and I successfully obtained my visa.

Tips

Firstly, pack only what you truly need. I shipped 12 medium boxes, ensuring everything was securely packed. The professional movers recommended by ReloAdvisor ensured all my belongings arrived safely. Furthermore, research is crucial before moving internationally. I thoroughly researched New Zealand, watched informative videos, and sought advice from friends who had already made the move. Understanding the culture and lifestyle significantly helped me adapt quickly.

 

Also, ensure your visa application is comprehensive and submitted well in advance. Each visa type has specific requirements, so it’s crucial to gather all necessary documents early.

Additionally, maintain consistent communication with your moving company throughout the process. Regular updates and reassurances from the movers helped keep my stress levels manageable.

Living in Auckland has been a dream come true, and I’m thrilled with my new life here. I encourage anyone considering a move to prepare thoroughly and embrace the adventure ahead.

Moving from Georgia to South Africa: Anna’s Cape Town Adventure

“South Africa is a blend of natural beauty and diverse cultures!”

Hi, I’m Anna. Last year, I moved from Atlanta to Cape Town, South Africa. The experience has been incredible, and I want to share how this move changed my life for the better.

At 30, I was eager for a new adventure and professional growth in a different part of the world. South Africa, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, was my chosen destination. Although leaving behind my life in Atlanta was challenging, my excitement for new experiences helped me overcome any doubts.

Moving Process

Packing for the move was a daunting task. I focused on bringing only the essentials and some sentimental items. To make the process easier, I used ReloAdvisor. Their platform provided quick quotes and excellent customer service, making my move smoother. Their support was invaluable, and I highly recommend them.

Getting a visa was the next step. I applied for a work visa, which involved detailed paperwork and coordination with the South African embassy. The process required patience and meticulous attention to detail, but it was worth it in the end.

Tips

Pack wisely and only take what you need. I moved 10 medium boxes, and everything arrived in perfect condition, thanks to the reliable movers recommended by ReloAdvisor.

Research is key before making such a significant move. I read extensively about South Africa, watched videos, and spoke with friends who had moved there. This preparation helped me understand the local culture and adapt more quickly.

Make sure your visa application is complete and submitted early. Each visa type has specific requirements, so it’s essential to gather all necessary documents well in advance.

Keep in constant communication with your moving company. Regular updates and reassurances from the movers helped alleviate my stress during the relocation process.

Living in Cape Town has been a fantastic adventure, and I’m thrilled with my new life here. I encourage anyone considering a move to plan carefully and embrace the journey.

Moving from Ohio to Italy: Mark’s Roman Journey

“Italy is where history meets modern life, with charm in every corner!”

Hello, I’m Mark. A year ago, I moved from Columbus to Rome, Italy, pursuing a lifelong dream to live among ancient ruins and vibrant culture. Here’s how my move across the globe became one of the best decisions I’ve made.

In my early 30s, I yearned for a significant change, seeking both personal and professional growth. Italy, with its rich history and lively atmosphere, was my ideal destination. The decision wasn’t easy, but my fascination with Roman history and culture fueled my determination.

Moving Process

Moving to Rome required careful planning. I decided to transport only necessary personal items and a few cherished mementos. To ensure a hassle-free move, I contacted ReloAdvisor. Their service was excellent, providing multiple quotes quickly and offering valuable guidance. Their assistance made my international move seamless.

Securing a visa was a detailed process. I applied for a work visa, coordinating closely with the Italian consulate. Gathering all the necessary documents took time, but with persistence, I successfully obtained my visa.

Tips 

Pack only what’s essential. I moved 15 medium boxes, ensuring everything was well-protected. Thanks to the professional movers recommended by ReloAdvisor, all my belongings arrived safely.

Research is vital before making an international move. I read numerous blogs, watched videos, and spoke with friends who had moved to Italy. Understanding the local culture, language, and lifestyle helped me adapt quickly.

Ensure your visa application is thorough and submitted well in advance. Whether it’s a work visa, student visa, or family reunion visa, proper documentation is crucial for a smooth transition.

Maintaining communication with your moving company is essential. Regular updates and assurances from my movers kept my mind at ease during the relocation.

Living in Rome has been a transformative experience, and I’m delighted with my new life here. I encourage anyone considering a move to prepare thoroughly and embrace the adventure.

Moving from Pennsylvania to France: Sophie’s Parisian Experience

“France is the epitome of culture, elegance, and culinary delight!”

Hi, my name is Sophie. I currently reside in Paris, having moved from Philadelphia a year ago. I’m passionate about art and history, which led me to the cultural hub of France. Let me share my journey of moving internationally and how it transformed my life.

At 28, I dreamed of immersing myself in European culture and continuing my career in the art industry. Paris was the obvious choice with its rich history and vibrant art scene. Though leaving my family and friends behind was tough, my passion for exploring new horizons kept me motivated.

Moving Process

Packing was a meticulous task, as I decided to move only essential personal items and some artworks. I aimed for a smooth transition, so I reached out to ReloAdvisor. Their platform provided multiple quotes swiftly, and their friendly staff guided me through the process. Their efficiency and responsiveness made my move less stressful. I highly recommend their services.

Securing a visa was the next step. As a professional in the arts, I applied for a long-stay visa, which required coordination with the French embassy. The process was detailed but manageable with proper planning and documentation.

Tips from a Mover

I recommend packing only what you truly need. I moved 12 medium boxes, ensuring all items were securely packed. All my belongings arrived in perfect condition, thanks to the reliable moving company I chose through ReloAdvisor.

Before relocating, research is crucial. I delved into blogs, watched videos, and sought advice from friends who had lived in France. Understanding the cultural nuances and practical aspects of living in Paris helped me adapt quickly.

If you plan to move to France, ensure your visa application is complete and submitted early. Whether it’s for work, study, or family reunification, the French immigration system requires thorough documentation.

Finally, continuous communication with your moving company is vital. I appreciated having updates and assurances that my belongings were safe throughout the journey.

Moving to Paris was a life-changing decision, and I’m thrilled with my new life here. I encourage you to prepare meticulously and embrace the adventure ahead.

Moving from Illinois to Canada: Ava’s Toronto Journey

“Canada offers stunning landscapes and a welcoming community!”

My name is Ava, I’m 29, and I moved to Toronto, Canada from Chicago a year ago. The transition was big, but Canada’s charm made it worthwhile. I hope my story inspires you to consider Canada for your next move.

First, a big thanks to ReloAdvisor for their outstanding service. They provided multiple quotes quickly and answered all my questions. The moving companies they recommended were professional and made the process smooth. I highly recommend using ReloAdvisor.

I spent most of my life in Chicago, working in the marketing sector. The stories about Canada’s stunning landscapes and welcoming community intrigued me. After some research, I decided to make the move.

Moving Process

I chose Toronto for its vibrant community and job market. Finding a job was straightforward, thanks to the city’s expanding tech sector. My new employer helped with the legalities and healthcare requirements for the move.

Housing in Toronto can be expensive, but I found a cozy apartment in a lively neighborhood. The next step was moving my belongings. ReloAdvisor connected me with reliable movers who handled everything from packing to unpacking. The move was seamless.

A Tip

Plan your move during the summer to enjoy the mild weather. Also, ensure your moving company provides comprehensive services, including insurance. My movers offered great insurance options, which gave me peace of mind.

Canada is beautiful with its stunning landscapes and welcoming community. From the bustling streets of Toronto to the serene beauty of the Rockies, there’s always something to explore. I’m thrilled with my decision to move here and look forward to many more adventures.

Moving from New York to the United Kingdom: John’s London Move

“The United Kingdom offers rich history and a vibrant culture!”

My name is John, I’m 36, and I moved to London, United Kingdom from New York City two years ago. The transition was significant, but the UK’s charm made it worthwhile. I hope my story inspires you to consider the United Kingdom for your next move.

First, a big thanks to ReloAdvisor for their outstanding service. They provided multiple quotes quickly and answered all my questions. The moving companies they recommended were professional and made the process smooth. I highly recommend using ReloAdvisor.

I spent most of my life in New York City, working in the finance sector. The stories about the UK’s rich history and vibrant culture intrigued me. After some research, I decided to make the move.

Moving Process

I chose London for its vibrant community and job market. Finding a job was straightforward, thanks to the city’s expanding finance sector. My new employer helped with the legalities and healthcare requirements for the move.

Housing in London can be expensive, but I found a beautiful apartment in a historic neighborhood. The next step was moving my belongings. ReloAdvisor connected me with reliable movers who handled everything from packing to unpacking. The move was seamless.

A Tip

Plan your move during the spring to enjoy the mild weather. Also, ensure your moving company provides comprehensive services, including insurance. My movers offered great insurance options, which gave me peace of mind.

The United Kingdom is amazing with its rich history and vibrant culture. From the historic sites of London to the scenic beauty of the countryside, there’s always something to explore. I’m thrilled with my decision to move here and look forward to many more adventures.

Moving from Florida to Australia: Sarah’s Sydney Adventure

“Australia is a land of stunning landscapes and a laid-back lifestyle!”

My name is Sarah, I’m 28, and I moved to Sydney, Australia from Miami a year ago. The transition was big, but Australia’s beauty made it worthwhile. I hope my story inspires you to consider Australia for your next move.

First, a big thanks to ReloAdvisor for their outstanding service. They provided multiple quotes quickly and answered all my questions. The moving companies they recommended were professional and made the process smooth. I highly recommend using ReloAdvisor.

I spent most of my life in Miami, working in the healthcare sector. The stories about Australia’s stunning landscapes and laid-back lifestyle intrigued me. After some research, I decided to make the move.

Moving Process

I chose Sydney for its vibrant community and job market. Finding a job was easy, thanks to the city’s diverse economy. My new employer helped with the legalities and healthcare requirements for the move.

Housing in Sydney can be expensive, but I found a beautiful apartment with a stunning view of the harbor. The next step was moving my belongings. ReloAdvisor connected me with reliable movers who handled everything from packing to unpacking. The move went off without a hitch.

A Tip

Plan your move during the Australian summer to enjoy the beach weather. Also, ensure your moving company provides comprehensive services, including insurance. My movers offered great insurance options, which were incredibly helpful.

Australia is beautiful with its stunning landscapes and laid-back lifestyle. From the vibrant city life of Sydney to the serene beaches, there’s always something to explore. I’m thrilled with my decision to move here and look forward to many more adventures.