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.