USA Import Guide – Simple Steps to Bring Your Products Into the US

If you’re thinking about sending anything to the United States, you probably wonder where to start. The good news is you don’t need a law degree, just a clear plan and the right paperwork. Below you’ll find the basics you need to move products—whether it’s tissue paper, electronics, or home décor—without getting stuck at the border.

Understanding US Customs Rules

First thing: every shipment passes through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). CBP checks what’s coming in, how much it costs, and whether it follows safety rules. The key form is the Entry Summary (Form 7501). It tells CBP the product name, value, origin country, and tariff code. The tariff code, also called the HS code, decides the duty you’ll pay. If you’re not sure which code fits your item, use the US International Trade Commission’s searchable database.

For tissue products, the HS code usually starts with 48. Knowing the exact sub‑code helps you avoid surprise fees. When you get the code right, the duty rate is often low, but you still need to report the correct value.

Preparing the Paperwork

Besides the Entry Summary, you’ll need a commercial invoice, packing list, and a bill of lading or airway bill. The invoice must show the buyer’s name, the seller’s name, a detailed description of the goods, unit price, total price, and the country where the goods were made. Keep the language simple and avoid abbreviations that CBP might not understand.

If you’re shipping food‑related items like paper towels, you may also need a certification from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA requires a Prior Notice to be submitted at least 48 hours before the goods arrive. Missing this step can cause a hold or even a seizure.

Many exporters use a freight forwarder to handle these forms. A good forwarder will double‑check the HS code, calculate duties, and file the Prior Notice for you. It costs a bit extra, but it usually saves time and money.

Paying Duties and Taxes

Once CBP reviews your paperwork, they’ll calculate the duty based on the HS code and the declared value. Duties are usually a percentage of the value, but some products enjoy duty‑free status under trade agreements. The United States has agreements with many countries, including India, that can lower or eliminate duties on certain goods.

If you qualify for a trade agreement, you’ll need a Certificate of Origin to prove where the product was made. Keep this document handy, because CBP may ask for it during inspections.

Don’t forget the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF). It’s a small charge added to every import, calculated as a percentage of the goods’ value, with a minimum and maximum cap. The MPF is usually a few dollars, but it’s required for every entry.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

One mistake newcomers make is under‑declaring the value to reduce duties. CBP can penalize you heavily, including fines and bans. Always be honest; the cost of a penalty far outweighs any duty savings.

Another tip: label your packages clearly. Include the HS code on the outer box and keep the commercial invoice inside the package. Clear labeling speeds up the clearance process and reduces the chance of a random inspection.

Finally, track your shipment’s status in the CBP’s Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). ACE lets you see when your entry is released, if any issues arise, and when the goods are ready for pickup.

Exporting to the United States may feel complex, but following these steps keeps things smooth. Get the right HS code, prepare complete paperwork, pay duties on time, and stay honest. With a solid plan, your products—whether tissue rolls or tech gadgets—will reach American shelves without a hitch.