🇺🇸 United States · Import & Export
Customs procedures, duties, de minimis thresholds, EORI/registration, and restricted goods.
Quick answer
US importers and exporters clear goods through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). You file entries under an importer number, classify goods by HTS code to find the duty rate, meet any partner-agency rules (FDA, USDA…), and pay duties. Exports follow the Export Administration Regulations; binding tariff rulings and disputes go through CBP.
Imports are administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP); exports of controlled items are regulated by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). Importers need an importer-of-record and correct HTS classification.
- Imports are declared to CBP, which assesses duties based on the goods' HTS classification and value.
- Export of controlled goods, software and technology may require a BIS license.
- Export shipments are typically reported electronically through the Automated Export System (AES).
Step-by-step
- 1
Register as an importer/exporter
Importers file under an IRS/EIN-based importer number; exporters register in ACE and, where required, file through the Automated Export System (AES).
- 2
Classify goods and check duty
Find your product's HTS code in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule to determine the duty rate and any trade-remedy tariffs.
- 3
Check agency rules and controls
Many goods need partner-government-agency clearance (FDA, USDA, FCC…); exports may need a license under the EAR or ITAR.
- 4
Pay duties and fees
Pay customs duties, the merchandise processing fee and any Section 232/301 tariffs at entry, or via a customs broker.
- 5
File the entry and clear customs
Lodge the entry and documents (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading) via a broker or ACE; CBP releases the goods.
- 6
Get rulings or resolve disputes
Request a binding ruling from CBP for classification certainty, and protest decisions through CBP's administrative process.
Checklist
- Importer number (EIN-based) / ACE registration
- HTS classification + duty rate
- Partner-agency clearances (FDA/USDA/etc.)
- Export license (EAR/ITAR) if controlled
- Duties + MPF + trade-remedy tariffs
- Entry documents (invoice, packing list, B/L)
- Customs broker (optional)
- Rulings / protest route (CBP)
Official authorities
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Administers imports, duties and customs declarations.
- Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
Regulates export controls for dual-use goods and technology.
Frequently asked questions
What is an HTS code?
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule code classifies your product and sets its duty rate; the first six digits are the international HS code.
Do I need a customs broker?
Not legally, but most importers use a licensed customs broker to file entries and navigate partner-agency requirements.
What is AES?
The Automated Export System, used to file electronic export information for shipments above a set value or of controlled items.
Official-information aggregation, not legal advice. Always verify on the authority's own site.
Government portals
- The White House — Official residence and office of the US President — executive orders, policy briefings, press releases
- U.S. Department of State — US passport and visa services, travel warnings, embassy information worldwide
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) — Federal tax filing, refund status, ITIN/EIN applications, and Free File program
- USCIS — Green card, H-1B and work visas, naturalization, immigration benefits, and case status