dhl us customs import guide
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UNITED STATES CUSTOMS IMPORT INDUSTRY GUIDE
Updated June 2012
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 2
DHL ExPERTISE ................................................................... 3
General Requirements ........................................................ 5
Power of Attorney .......................................................... 5
Employer Identification Number .................................... 6
Customs Bonds .............................................................. 7
Types of Clearance ......................................................... 8
Packaging Requirements ................................................ 9
Paperwork Requirements ............................................. 10
Binding Rulings ............................................................ 13
Incoterms ..................................................................... 14
Marking Requirements ................................................. 15
Internet Purchases ............................................................ 16
Intellectual Property Rights ............................................... 17
Toxic Substances ............................................................... 18
Textiles .............................................................................. 19
Consumer Goods .............................................................. 25
Life Sciences ...................................................................... 30
Food and Drink ................................................................. 31
Other Government Agency Requirements ......................... 34
International Trade Agreements
Preferential Trade Programs ......................................... 36
Free Trade Agreements ................................................. 39
Punitive Duty Rates ........................................................... 41
Carnets.............................................................................. 42
Security Certification ......................................................... 43
Useful Links ...................................................................... 44
Information contained herein is intended for informational purposes only. DHL Express assumes no responsibility for any clerical errors or for regulatory information contained herein. Customers should seek their own counsel on matters that may affect their regulatory or financial responsibilities from engaging in international trade.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide3
DHL ExPERTISE
BENEFIT FROM DHL’S RECOGNIZED INTERNATIONAL ExPERTISE
Whether importing or exporting to any of hundreds of international markets, DHL has the experience and services to handle it all.
• LicensedCustomsbrokerinU.S.withon-siteCustomsclearanceatallinternationalgateways
• ProgressivetrainingforCustomsbrokerageagents ensuring DHL is up to date on regulatory matters and industry trends
• Extensivecountry-by-countryknowledgeofcurrentCustomsregulationsthroughourin-houseexperts
• LongstandingrelationshipwithCustomsauthoritiestoenablefastCustomsclearance
Thankstoour‘ClearedinAir’process(CIA),themajorityofalldutiableshipmentsareclearedpriortoarrivalintheU.S.
DHL has dedicated operations personnel at the gatewayswhoexaminethepaperworkandenterthedataintooursystemswhiletheshipmentsareintheair.Thenthepaperworkistransmittedelectronicallytothedestinationgatewaybeforetheshipmentsarrive.
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 4
LICENSED CUSTOMS BROkERS
• ToimportshipmentsintotheUnitedStates,a“LicensedCustomsBroker”mustbeappointedtofacilitatetheprocessbetweenCustomsand the consignee
• Unlikeothercompaniesandmostfreightforwarders,DHLExpressU.S.hasthislicenseinternally.ThismeansthattheCustomsprocessiscontrolled“in-house”andnotcontractedouttoathirdparty
• Thisensuresfasterturn-aroundandbettercontrol of the process
CERTIFIED CUSTOMS SPECIALISTS
InadditiontoourstaffedLicensedCustomsBrokers,DHLemploysnearly150CertifiedCustomsSpecialists(CCS).TheCCSdesignationisanindustryrecognizedstandarddemonstratingprogressiveknowledgesuitedtoproperimportcompliance.TheCCSisearnedviatheNationalCustomsBrokersandFreightForwardersAssociation(NCBFAA)byattendingNCBFAAsponsored events covering critical aspects of the import process.
DHL actively supports employees in this personal development,allowingourcustomerstorecognizeandbenefitfromDHL’scommitmenttothehighestlevelofcompliance competence.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AFFAIRS AND COMPLIANCE
ForCustomsbrokerageservices,traderegulatorycompliance and trade promotion services, rely on DHLExpressU.S.’sInternationalTradeAffairsandCompliance(ITAC)team.ITACistheDHLExpressU.S.’slicensedcorporateCustomsbrokerandsupervisesallDHLExpressU.S.Customsbrokerageactivities.
InternationalTradeAffairs&Compliance(ITAC)ContactInformation:Phone:1.859.817.8010Email:Tradecompliance.usa@dhl.com
DHL ExPERTISE
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide55
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
POWER OF ATTORNEY
ThePowerofAttorney(POA)isthefoundationonwhichCustomsbrokeragebusinessisbuilt.InsomeCustomsclearancesituations,DHLneedsaproperly-executedPOAtoclearthegoodsinyournameandtopreparethenecessaryCustomsdocuments to ensure a smooth clearance process.
POAsarenormallyonlyneededwhenperformingformalentriesandrestrictedinformalentries.(SeeTypesofClearanceSection6andthefollowingPOArequiredsituations).DHLmusthavethePOAonfilebeforethesetypesofclearancescanbegin.ItisthereforeimportanttohavethePOAexecutedwellinadvanceofarrivalinordertopreventclearancedelay.DHLwillthenholdthePOAonfileasdeterminedbylaworbyadatedeterminedbytheImporterofRecord.
OnceaPOAiscompletednominatingDHLasthebroker,thecompanywhoexecutedthePOA,isreferredtoastheImporterofRecord(IOR)andDHLactsastheirrepresentativetoUSCustoms.We then take care of the detailed steps necessary to ensure a seamless transaction and to provide youwithasinglesourceforyourshippingneeds.
DHL requires POA for the following clearance situations:
When the consignee requests that entry be processed in their name
Foreign-made goods valued over $100,000
American goods returned valued over $10,000
All goods returning to the United States after having been exported for exhibition, used abroad, repaired abroad, further processed abroad, etc.
Shipments containing alcoholic beverages and/or tobacco products
Shipments containing civil aircraft parts (including HTS 8803 and civil aircraft agreements)
All shipment entries that are required to be flagged for Reconciliation
Shipments that require these special types of formal entry: • Temporary Importation Bonds (TIB) • Antidumping Duty (ADD) • Countervailing Duty (CVD) • Department of State (DOS), including ITAR exemptions • Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) • Government contract
Shipments of goods regulated by Food and Drug (FDA), Fish & Wildlife (FWS), US Dept of Agriculture (USDA), and Other Govt Agency (OGA) valued over $5,000 USD
Shipments entered duty free under various International Trade Agreements (e.g. GSP, NAFTA, DR-CAFTA, Singapore FTA, etc.) when the following apply.
• If the supporting documentation is available at the time of entry, a POA is required if shipment value is over $10,000
• If the supporting documentation is not available, a POA may be required for all formal entries
• A POA is required for all textile product entries
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 66
EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (EIN), INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICES TAX NUMBER (IRS) OR PORT ASSIGNED NUMBER
AllU.S.Customsbrokersarerequiredtoreporttheconsignee’sEmployerIdentificationNumber(EIN)orIRSnumberwhentheclearanceisinthatcompany’sname.TheImporterofRecord’sEINorIRSisprovidedduringtheexecutionofthePowerofAttorney(POA),whichisarequirementbyU.S.Customs&BorderProtection(CBP).
WhentheIORdoesnothaveanEINorIRSnumber,aCustomsAssignedNumbercanbeobtained.Typically,thesecustomsassignednumbersareforforeignimportersofRecordandDHLcanassistcustomerswiththisprocess.
SinceCBPrequiresanaccurateEINorIRSnumber;DHLrequestscertaindocumentationtovalidatethosenumbers.ValidationnotonlyprotectsCBPandDHL,butmoreimportantly,itprotectsourcustomer’sidentity.AsthisvalidationisfundamentaltothePOAexecutionprocess,thefollowingtypesofproofshouldbeprovidedsimultaneouslywiththePOAinordertoavoidanycustomsclearancedelay.
NotethatCBPvalidatesimporter’sEINandSocialSecurityNumber(SSN)whenimportersobtainorrenewcontinuousCustomsbonds.Assuch,DHLExpressUSAnormallywillnotrequireproofofEINwhenanimporterhasaCustomsbondonfile.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Acceptable Proof (Companies)
Copies of IRS forms
Letter from IRS
Acceptable Proof (Individuals)
Copy of front and back of Social Security Card
Front page of IRS 1040 Form
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide77
CUSTOMS BONDS
ACustomsbondisacontractusedtoensurethatapersonorcompanywillperformobligationsrelatedtothe entry of merchandise arriving from a foreign originintotheUnitedStates.ThebondisarequirementforallentriesandmustbepurchasedfromaCBPapprovedinsurance(surety)company. ThebondisusedinlieuofpostingacashdepositwiththeU.S.GovernmentandDHLisreadytoassistwiththis process.
IftheentryismadewithDHLastheImporterofRecord,thenDHL’sCustomsBondwillsatisfytherequirementsandthereisnoneedforthecustomertoposttheirownbond.However,ifthecustomeristheImporterofRecord,thentheIORisrequiredtohave aCustomsBond.
There are two available bond types for Customs entries
SingleTransactionBond (STB) also known as Single Entry Bond (SEB)
Can only be used for one Customs transaction or entry. DHL is able to produce an STB on your behalf
Continuous Transaction Bond (CTB)
Is used to cover all Customs transactions or shipments within a year. DHL Express is able to assist you in procuring a CTB
Should be obtained prior to shipments to help avoid delays in transit
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 8
TYPES OF CLEARANCE
TherearegenerallythreetypesofCustomsclearancesintheUnitedStates.
Entry Type Clearance Parameters Customs Clearance Process Importer Requirement
De Minimis $0 to $200 USD General Commodities
Restrictions may apply: • Other Government Agency • Licensed Goods • Textiles• Alcohol & Tobacco
Consolidated Manifest Clearance as Section 1321
DUTY FREE clearance
Informal $201 to $2,000 USD American Goods Returned General Commodities
Restrictions may apply: • Other Government Agency • Licensed Goods• Apparel & Footwear • Alcohol & Tobacco
Customs Clearance as Express Consignment “Informal” manifest clearance under DHL’s bond
DUTY payment required
Formal $2,001 to $100,000 USD • Formal entry process
• Shipments are held for separate Automated Broker Interface (ABI) entry. Duty and Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) payment required.
• Proof of Tax ID Number (EIN)
Over $100,000 and restricted commodities:
• Other Government. Agency• Licensed Goods• Textiles • Alcohol & Tobacco • Civil Aircraft Parts• American Goods Returned• Free Trade Agreements
• Formal entry process
• Shipments are held for separate Automated Broker Interface (ABI) entry. Duty and Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF)
• Power of Attorney (POA) and Customs Bond
• Continuous Bond• Single Transaction Bond
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide9
PACkAGING REQUIREMENTS
TheU.S.,likemanynations,strictlymonitorspackaging materials coming into the country. This is done to protect agriculture industries from insects and pests.
Wooden Packaging and Pallets
•Allrawwoodusedinpackaging,includingpallets,mustcomplytotheISPM15standard(InternationalStandardsforPhytosanitaryMeasures#15)
•Todemonstratecompliance,allrawmaterialsneedtoshowthe‘debug’symbol,2lettercountrycodeanduniquenumberofthemanufacturer:
Example:DB-HTGB-FC0000
•Thesestandardsdonotapplytoplywood,particleboardorplastic
Failuretocomplywillresultinshipmentdelays.
For further details please refer to:
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/plants/plant_imports/wood_packaging_materials.shtml
Further information
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 10
REQUIRED PAPERWORk
The Air Waybill (AWB)
TheAirWaybillaccompaniestheshipmentandformspartofthepaperworkset.Itmayalsoincludevaluableinformation not mentioned on the invoice.
Bad description OK description Good description Best description
Spare Parts Auto Spare Parts Auto Parts – Pump Auto Spare Pump, from plastic
Sample Sample Computer Sample lap top, HP123
Part Number xL456 Printing press part Assay for Printing Press Part for Printing Press – metal
The most common errors when completing paperwork
Content description is vague
(See description table below)
The description must be detailed and accurate. For example, ‘computer parts’ would require the words ‘computer parts’ AND brand name, model, serial number of thecomputer, list of all parts and serial numbers, easily understood descriptions (no technical terms)
Shipment documentation is incomplete Sometimes not all the pages of an invoice are received – values or quantities are missing
Incorrect product code Incorrect product code on the Air Waybill
Not in English Invoice or description is not in English
Improper value or quantity Goods are deliberately under-valued to avoid duties or taxes
Textile samples not prepared properly Textile sample shipments are not properly prepared (mutilated or marked)
80% of delayed shipments can be linked directly to missing Consignee information, poor descriptions or incomplete information.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide11
REQUIRED PAPERWORk
The Invoice
A“CommercialInvoice”isrequiredformostimportsintotheUnitedStates.A“ProFormaInvoice”maybeusedforcertaintransactionssuchasgoodsnotintendedforfurthersale,returnedmerchandise and goods intended only for temporary import among other purposes.
The Pro Forma Invoice
A Commercial or Pro Forma invoice must contain:
Complete name and address of the: – Consignee– Seller or Manufacturer– Importer, if different from Consignee
Detailed description of the merchandise
Number of pieces (quantities)
Value per Item
Total Value
Country of Origin
Reason for Export (e.g. resale or inter company transfer)
Most shipments travel with a label.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 12
REQUIRED PAPERWORk
The Invoice
Listing all parties involved in the transaction
Description of: • Contents • Items in the shipment
The ‘Commercial Value’ and currency
Transport costs
The terms of trade
Manufacturer of goods
Declaration and signature
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide13
BINDING RULINGS
OfferedthroughU.S.CustomsandBorderProtection(CBP),thebindingrulingprogramenablesimportersandotherinterestedpartiestoobtainclassificationdecisionspriortoimportingaproduct.Additionally,thisserviceprovidesbindingguidanceaboutotherCBPregulationssuchascountryoforiginmarkingandvaluationquestions.
BindingclassificationadvicecanonlybegivenbytheOfficeofRegulationsandRulings.TheimportersubmitsaletterdescribingtheproductindetailandprovidesasampletotheCBPInformationExchange,NationalCommoditySpecialistforaruling.Theimportergenerallyreceivesaresponsewithin30days.
Whiletariffclassificationsarebinding,dutyratesarenot.Theobjectistopromoteimportcompliance,uniformity and accuracy in classification of products. The importer should keep in mind that theBindingRulingProgramisjustthat-binding.OnceCBPissuestheirdecision,itislegallybindingandenforceablebylaw.Whiletheinitialrulingmaybeprotested,onceadecisionisfinalizeditmustbeincorporatedintotheimportingprocess.
Whensubmittingarulingrequest,includethenames, address and other identifying information of all interested parties including the manufacturer. Identifytheportsinwhichthemerchandisewillbeenteredandprovideadetaileddescriptionofthetransaction.Italwayshelpstosubmitasampleoftheproductwhenpractical.
Beforesubmittingtherequest,becertainthatthere are no issues on the commodity pending beforeeitherCBPoranycourt,andchecktoseewhetherclassificationadvicehadpreviouslybeensoughtfromaCustomsofficer.
RulingrequestsforTariffClassificationrulingsshouldbeaddressedto:
Director,NationalCommoditySpecialistDivision U.S.CustomsandBorderProtection Attn:CIE/RulingRequest OnePennPlaza10thfloor NewYork,NY10119
For additional ruling information please see the below link:
http://rulings.cbp.gov/
Further information
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 14
INCOTERMS 2010 CLASSIFICATION
Incotermsarethree-lettertradetermsthathelpfacilitate a common language in international and domesticbuyingandselling.Considerincotermsas anintegralpartofthebuyingandsellingtransaction,butnotacompletecontractofsale.Thinkofincoterms asa“bestpractice”application.Byclearlydefiningobligations,Incotermshelptoenhancetrade.Incotermsarecategorizedbothbytermsapplicabletoany modeoftransport,andbytermsonlytobeusedbyoceanfreight:
Thechartbelowprovidesamoredetailedexplanationof each term.
Insummary,forproperuseofIncoterms: 1)ChoosetheappropriateIncotermsrule.The
termsmustclearlyreflectthefollowing: •Shouldbeappropriateforthegoods •Shouldbeconsistentwiththemodeoftransport •Shouldbereflectiveoftheagreedbuyer/
sellerobligations
2)BeSpecific: Referencestonamedports,terminals,places,etc.
shouldbespecificandusedinconjunctionwith the term.
Ex:“DAP123MainSt.,Montclair,NJ07042,Incoterms2010”
DHLExpressstandardrecognizedtermsareDDPandDTP.
Incoterms
EXW Exworks(named place)- seller delivers when it places the goods at the disposal of the buyer at the seller’s premises or at another named place. The seller does not need to load the goods on the collecting vehicle, nor does it need to clear the goods for export
FCA Free Carrier(named place of delivery)- seller delivers the goods to the carrier or another person nominated by the buyer at the seller’s premises or another named place
CPT Carriage Paid To(named place of destination)- seller delivers the goods to the carrier or another person nominated by the seller at an agreed place and that the seller must contract for and pay the costs of carriage necessary to bring the goods to the named place of destination
CIPCarriage and Insurance Paid to
(named place of destination)- seller delivers the goods to the carrier or another person nominated by the seller at an agreed place and that the seller must contract for and pay the costs of carriage necessary to bring the goods to the named place of destination. The seller also contracts for insurance cover against the buyer’s risk of loss of or damage to the goods during the carriage.
DATDelivered at Terminal
(named terminal at port or place of destination)- seller delivers when the goods, once unloaded from the arriving means of transport, are placed at the disposal of the buyer at a named terminal at the named port or place of destination
DAPDelivered at Place
(named place of destination)- seller delivers when the goods are placed at the disposal of the buyer on the arriving means of transport ready for unloading at the named place of destination
DDP Delivered Duty Paid
(named place of destination)-seller delivers when the goods are placed at the disposal of the buyer on the arriving means of transport ready for unloading at the named place of destination. The seller bears cost for any duty for both export and import Customs formalities
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide15
MARkING REQUIREMENTS
MostimportedarticlesofforeignoriginarrivingintheUnitedStatesarerequiredtobemarkedidentifyingitscountryofmanufacture.ThemarksmustbeintheEnglishlanguage,aslegibly,indeliblyandpermanentlyasthenatureofthearticlewillpermitandmustbeofadequatesize.ThisrequirementinformstheultimatepurchaserofthearticleintheUnitedStateswherethearticlewasmanufactured,processedorgrown.
U.S.CustomsandBorderProtection(CBP)allowsanumberofexceptionstothisrule.Whilenotcomprehensive,belowisalistofsomeofthemostcommonexceptions:
•Incapableofbeingmarked,suchasneedles,ormarkingtheitemwoulddamageitorcausetheimportationtobeeconomicallyprohibitive
•Itemsforwhichthemarkingofthecontainerswillreasonablyindicatetheoriginofthearticles
•Strictlyfortheuseoftheimporter,notintendedfor sale in their imported or any other form
•Importedfortheuseoffurthermanufacturingor incorporation into another article
•GoodsimportedunderNAFTA,with certain limitations
•Produced20yearspriortotheirimportation
•U.S.Goodsexportedandreturned
•Dutyexemptitemsvaluedatlessthan$200.00ora‘bonafide’giftvaluedatlessthan$100.00(Subjecttootherrestrictions)
Itshouldbenotedthatevenwithexceptions,thepackagingandcontainersstillmustbemarkedwiththecountry of origin.
Thefollowingisavarietyofapprovedmarkingmethods.Thetypeofmethodvarieswiththearticleorpackagingtobemarked.
•DieStamping,Etching,Engraving,EngravedMetalPlatespermanentlyaffixedtothearticle
•Cast-in-the-moldlettering •FabricLabels •HangTags(Plastic,metal) •Pressure-SensitiveLabelorpermanent,
reliableadhesivepapersticker
Whenarticlesarenotlegallymarked,CBPwillnotifytheimporterinwritingtoeitherproperlymark, export or destroy the merchandise.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 16
INTERNET PURCHASES
ONLINE PURCHASES
TheInternethasmadeiteasytofindandpurchaseavarietyofitemsfromalmostanywhereintheworld.However,manypeopledonotrealizethatpurchasingforeignitemsthroughtheInternetmayrequiredeclaringandclearingtheitemthroughU.S.CustomsandBorderProtection(CBP).
ManyInternetpurchasesareshippedbyexpresscarrierslikeDHLExpress.Mostshipmentsthathaveavalueoflessthan$200.00canbedeclaredandreleasedthroughCBPwithoutthepaymentofdutyandtaxesorthefilingofadditionalpaperwork.DHLExpresswillthendelivertheitemtoyou.Ifthevalueofthepurchaseisover$200.00orisanitemwhich,duetoitsnature,requiresaformalentrythenDHLExpresswillnotifyyouifyouarerequiredtomakearrangementsfortheentryrequirementsandwillholdtheitemuntil proper clearance arrangements are made.
Internetpurchasescanbeverycomplicatedandcostlyifyouaren’tawareoftheprocessandrestrictions.Specialrequirements,documentationand other government agency participation may berequiredinordertoimportitemslikethese:
•Food,plantanddairyproducts •Alcoholandtobaccoproducts •Birds,fish,animalsorproductsthereof •Goodsfromembargoedcountries •Firearmsandammunition •Copyrightedmaterials •PrescriptionDrugs
HerearesomequestionstokeepinmindifyouwanttopurchasefromaforeignsupplierviatheInternet:
•Canyouimportthisproductlegally?
•Arethereanyrestrictionsorspecialformsthatyouneedtoknowabout?
•Willothergovernmentagencies,liketheFDAorUSDAhavetobeinvolved?
•Willyouneeda“permit”toimportwhatyouarepurchasing?
•Areyoubuyingtheitemforyourpersonaluseortoputupforsaleinyourshop?
•Whatareyour“termsofpurchase”?Whoispaying for the costs such as international freight, Customsclearanceservices,duty,taxes,delivery?
•Whatchargesandfeesareincludedinthetotalpurchaseprice?
•DoyouKNOWwhoandwhereyouarebuyingfromtoavoidanypotentialtrademarkviolations?
•DoyouKNOWforsurewhatthecountryoforiginofthisitemisanddoesitbearcorrectcountryoforiginmarkings?
•IstheitembeingshippedfromaforeigncountryandwillCustomsclearanceberequired?
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide17
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
PROTECTION AGAINST COUNTERFEIT GOODS
Itisvitalthattheimportingcommunityunderstandtheimpactoftheexplosivegrowthinthesaleofcounterfeitgoods,alsoknownasIntellectualPropertyRights(IPR),directlytoconsumers.U.S.CustomsandBorderProtection(CBP)takesanactiveroleintheprotectionofstolenbusinessprofits,threatstonationalsecurity and the serious risk of injury these products pose to the consumer.
Intellectualpropertyreferstocreationsofthemind:Inventions,literaryandartisticworks,andsymbols,names, images, and designs used in commerce. UnderU.S.law,atrademarkisdefinedasanyword,name,symbol,device,colororcombinationthereofused to identify and distinguish goods from those manufacturedorsoldbyothersandtoindicatetheorigin and source of goods.
Acopyrightisaformofintellectualpropertythatprotects“originalworksofauthorship,”whichincludeliterary, dramatic, musical, artistic, pictorial, graphic andsculpturalworks,motionpicturesandotheraudiovisualworks,soundrecordings,andarchitecturalworks.CopyrightprotectionforU.S.workscommencesthemomenttheworkisfixedinanytangiblemediumof expression, and extends only to the expression of ideas-words,pictures,andsounds-butnottotheideas themselves.
StoppingtheflowofgoodsthatuponinfringeU.S.intellectualpropertyrights(IPR)isapriorityfortheU.S.Government.CBPistakingacomprehensiveapproachtotheenforcementofIPRthatincludesseizingvolatilegoods.CBPalsopartnerswithindustryandothergovernment agencies to enhance these efforts.
AccordingtoCBP,thetop10categoriesofIPR-infringingproductsarepharmaceuticals,health/personalcare,eyewear/parts,criticaltechnologycomponents,electronicarticles,cigarettes,perfumes/colognes,batteries,exerciseequipmentandtransportation/parts.
DHL understands the importance of keeping our customersinformedofIPRandthepotentialconsequences.WhileDHLandotherexpresscarriersdo not have either the authority or the means to enforceIPR,DHLworksproactivelywithCustomsauthoritiesandlawenforcementagenciestoaddressIPRviolations.
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 18
TOxIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT
18
WHAT IS TSCA?
CongressenactedtheToxicSubstancesControlAct(TSCA;theAct)in1976,givingtheEnvironmentalProtectionAgency(EPA)broadauthoritytoissueregulationsdesignedtogatherhealth/safetyandexposureinformationonchemicalsubstances,chemicalmixtures,andarticles.Ifyouimportanyoftheseitems,youaresubjecttoTSCAandgenerallymustmeetthesamerequirementsunderTSCAasachemicalmanufacturerintheUnitedStates.
CommontypesofindustriesandsectorscoveredunderTSCAinclude:companiesthatareengagedinchemical production and importation, petroleum refining,paperproductionandmicro-electronicsmanufacturing.Sectorsinclude:organics,inorganics,plasticsandchemicalpreparations.It’simportanttounderstandthatonlythoseinvolvedinthebuyingandsellingofpotentialTSCA-applicableproductsmaydeterminewhetherornotTSCAapplies.CertificationofTSCAcompliance,mustbepresentedtotheEPAundertheauthorityofUSCustomsandBorderProtectioninwritingatthetimeofimportation.
EPAexpectsthatthiscertificationwillbebaseduponactualknowledgeoftheimporterinmostcases.However,EPArealizesthatsometimesimportersmaynothaveactualknowledgeofthechemicalcompositionofimportedmixtures.Inthesecases,the importer should attempt to discover the chemical constituentsoftheshipmentbycontactinganotherparty to the transaction.
IfpartiestothetransactionareunabletodetermineTSCAapplicability,assistancecanbeobtainedfromtheEPAbycontacting:
Director,EnvironmentalAssistanceDivision(7408)OfficeofPollutionPreventionandToxicsU.S.EnvironmentalProtectionAgencyRoomE-543B1200PennsylvaniaAve.,NWWashington,DC20460Telephone:(202)554-1404TDD:(202)544-0551
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide19
TExTILES
IMPORTING TExTILES
Textiles,wearingapparelandflatgoodsareconsidered“tradesensitive”commoditiesbytheU.S.Governmentandrequirespecialdocumentationandprocessing.
• SpecificdocumentsanddetailsarerequiredtoensurepromptU.S.Customsrelease
• Thetextilemanufacturer’scompletenameandaddressmustbeincludedonthecommercialinvoice
Additionaldocumentationmayberequired(dependingontypeofgoods):
• FabricDetailsSheets Pleasenotetherearenosampleinvoices
SHIPMENT DESCRIPTION
Textile Type Use of Textile Dutiable Value Guideline
Normal Import Item is sellable or usable Yes None
Mutilated Sample Soliciting orders No None
Marked Sample Photo or Modeling; unsuitable for use
Yes Under $800.00*
Marked Sample - Incapable of being Marked
Photo or Modeling; unsuitable for use
Yes None
DOCUMENTATION CHECk LIST
Documents Mutilated Samples Marked Samples Non-Quota Shipments
DHL Air Waybill • • •
Commercial Invoice • • •Except for mutilated samples of $2,000 or less; *For some non-WTO countries if value is over $800 and marked ‘sample’
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 20
TExTILES
COMMODITY DETAILS
Thefollowingdetailsarerequiredforshipmentsofthegoodslistedbelow:
HATS & HEADGEAR• Type
• Trimmingandlinings
• Materialtypeanddetails
• Gender
• Ifsafetyheadgear,providedetails
GLOVES, MITTENS AND MITTS• Knittedorwovendesignation
• Fabric,leather,plasticorrubber
• Typeofleather
• Typeofplastic
• Typeoffabric
• Typeofrubber
• Seamless,disposable,surgical, medical or lined
• Genderdesignation
FLAT GOODS• Typeofflatgood
• Outersurfacetype
– leather or plastic
• Ifleather,doesitcontainreptile origins
• Ifplastic,isitstructuredorridged
• Beadedorotherwise
• Iftextile–includespecificdetails
• Value
• Lining
• Ifitiscasingusedtotransportcompactdiscs(CD)orCDplayers
CARPETS• Nameandaddressofmanufacturer
• Indicateif:
– knotted
–woven
– tufted or flocked
– of pile construction
–hand-knotted,hookedorwoven
• Size
• Netweight
• Fibercontentbyweight
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide21
TExTILES
COMMODITY DETAILS
Apparel
Thefollowingdetailsarerequiredforshipmentsoftextileclothing(alsoknownasClothing/Garment):•Men’s/women’sorboy’s/girl’sdesignation•Knitorwovendesignation•Fibercontentbyweight•Ifunitsorensembles,valuesforeachpiecemustbe
provided•Corduroyanddenimconstructionmustbeidentified•Wovenshirtsmustidentifyiftwoormorecolorsinwarpand/orfilling(weft)•Glovesmustidentifywithorwithoutfourchettes•Knitglovesmustidentifyterry,jerseyorlisle
construction•Theadditionoflaceonanygarmentmustbenoted•Hatsplaitedorassembledfromstrips
Textiles Fabrics
Notallthefollowingdetailsapplytoeverytypeoffabric:•Knitorwovendesignation•Typeofweavesuchasplain(specifypoplin,broadcloth,sheetingcheesecloth,printcloth),jacquard,hand-woven,satin,twill,oxford,duck•Lengthandwidth•Bleached,unbleached,dyed,yarndyed,yarnsof
different colors, printed•Endusesuchastapestry,upholsteryorneckties•Weight(g/m2)•Yarndiameter(microns)•Denim•Numberofyarnsinthewarpandfilling(weft)(threadcount)•Impregnated,coated,coveredorlaminated
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 2222
TExTILES
COMMODITY DETAILS
Marked Samples
1. Whensamplesaretobeusedforphotosormodeling,theycanbemarkedinsteadofmutilatedtokeepthegarmentsuitableforuse
2. MarkingmustbedonepriortoarrivalintheU.S.
3. Cutortearmustbeatleast2-inchlengthonoutsidebodyofgarmentandclearlyvisible,notona seam or hem
4. Invoicemustdeclare‘markedsample–not forsale’
5. Merchandisemustbeclassifiedaccordinglyforapplicableduty
Mutilated Samples
1. Mustbeusedonlyforsolicitingorders
2. MutilationmustbedonepriortoarrivalintheU.S.
3. Invoicemustdeclare‘mutilatedsamples’
4. Fabricover2yards(1m)inlengthdoesnotqualifyasasample,evenifmarkedormutilated
5. Merchandiseisduty-free
Two distinct categories:
1. Marked Samples
Printword“SAMPLE”atleast1-inch (25mmhighinindelibleinkoninside)
2. Mutilated Samples
Chooseoneofthethreemethodsshowntomutilate
SAMPLE
5 inches
1 inch
Punch
Cut
1 inch
2 inches
Punch a hole of 2-inch / 51mm diameter every 457 mm/18 inches along the longest side and diagonally across the sample
Not more than 18 inches
72 inches
Stamp ‘SAMPLE’ in uppercase, at least 1 inch high and 5 inches long in contrasting color every 6 inches diagonally across sample
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide23
KEY INFORMATION REQUIRED FOR INVOICES
Marked Samples
• Typeofapparel(dress,top,jacket,skirt)
• Fibercontentbypercentage(100%cotton)
• Construction(wovenorknitted)
• Gender(men’s,women’s,girl’s,boy’s)
• Numberofpieces(quantity)
• Marketvaluebyunitpriceandtotal
• HarmonizedSystemCode
• CountryofOrigin(ManufactureInformation)
Threecopiesoftheinvoicemustbeattachedto
the shipment.
Mutilated Samples
• Typeofapparel(jackets)
• Fibercontentbypercentage(100%cotton/100%
polyester)
• Construction(woven/knitted)
• Gender(men’s)
• Numberofpieces
• Marketvaluebyunitpriceandtotal
• HarmonizedSystemCode(H.S.Code9811.00.60)
• CountryofOrigin(MadeinSriLanka)
Threecopiesoftheinvoicemustbeattachedto
the shipment.
TExTILES
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 24
FOOTWEAR DETAIL SHEETS
Footwear Detail Sheet
Thefollowingdetailsarerequiredforshippersexportingfootwear:
Footwear Detail Sheet Instructions
TExTILES
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide25
CONSUMER GOODS
CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT (CPSIA)
TheU.S.ConsumerProductSafetyCommissionImprovementAct(CPSIA)expandedandintroducednewcertificationrequirementsforconsumergoodsimportedintotheUnitedStatesforconsumption,warehousingorfordistributionincommerce.Thesecertificatesarerequiredtoaccompanyallimports.However,itistheresponsibilityoftheshippertocomplywiththerequirements.
Commodities CoveredAllconsumerproductsmanufacturedonorafterNovember12,2008,whicharesubjecttoaConsumerProductSafetyCommission(CPSC)-administeredmandatorysafetystandard,rule,ban,orregulationaresubjecttotherequirement.ConsumergoodsregulatedbytheCPSCincludebutarenotlimitedto:
•Arts&craftssupplies •Bicycles •Children’scribs&otherchildren’sfurniture •Children’sclothing •Electricalitems •Firesafetyequipment •Holidaydecorations •Homeheatingequipment •Householdproducts •Indoorairpurifiers •Outdoorpowerequipment •Playgroundequipment •Pool&spaequipment •Recreational&sportsequipment •Toys
Types of Certificates Required Under this Act
1.ThirdPartyTestCertificatesforchildren’sproducts: Children’sproductsaregenerallydefinedasaconsumer product designed or intended primarily forchildren12yearsofageoryounger.ImportersofsuchproductswillberequiredtohaveaproducttestedbyaCPSCaccreditedindependentorthird-partytestfacility.Basedonsuchtesting,acertificatewillbeissuedevidencingcompliance.
2.GeneralConformityCertificatesforallotherproducts:Thegeneralconformitycertificatemustcertify,basedonatestorareasonabletestingprogram,thataproductcomplieswithallstandardsorregulationsapplicabletotheproduct.
The certificates must accompany the shipment of such products.Thecertificateisnotrequiredtobefiledwiththeentry,butmustbefurnisheduponrequesttotheCPSCandCBP.
CPSIAhasidentifiednewstandardsforcertificationofconsumerproducts.Thesestandardsfollowdifferentrequirementsandtimelinesthatshouldbeconsideredinthecertification:
•LeadStandardsthatbeganFebruary2009including paint and other surface coatings
•PhthalatesStandardsthatbeganFebruary2009(primarilychildren’stoysorchildcarearticles)
Additional information can be found at http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia
Further information
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 26
WHAT IS LIFE SCIENCES?
• Biologicalproducts• Cosmeticproductsandskincare• Pharmaceuticals• MedicalDevices• Chemicals
TheU.S.closelyregulatestheimportofalllifesciencescommodities.SuchcommoditiesareregulatedeitherbytheFoodandDrugAdministration(FDA)orbytheU.S.DepartmentofAgriculture(USDA).Generally,thecommoditiescoveredunder such regulations are items that are either ingestedorappliedtothehumanbodyorinsomewaymodifyormayhaveill-effectsonthebody.
Thefollowinginstructionsareaguidetowhattheshipperisrequiredtodoforshipmentsofthesecommodities.Insomeinstancesthisisrelatedtoregistrationthatmustbecarriedoutpriortoshipping,inadditiontowhatisrequiredtobedeclaredonairwaybillsandcommercialinvoices.
TheUSDAregulatesagriculturalproductsandproductswithpotentialimpactonU.S.agricultureandlivestock.USDAincludesAPHIS(AnimalandPlantHealthInspectionService)andVS(VeterinaryServices)agencies.
USDAinspectionsmayberequiredandmaydelayclearanceiftheimporterhasnotobtainedalicenseorpermitpriortoshipment.Forvarioustypesofcontent,thereareUSDAguidelinesthatwillassistyouincompletingtherequireddeclaration.
BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS
The information must be supplied as ORIGINAL statements on the producer/shipper’sletterhead in a clear and concise manner, and be available for review by the USDA inspectors at the port of arrival.
Biological Products
Regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculturewww.usda.gov
The USDA reviews plant and animal productsand biological materials such as cell culturesand serum. USDA inspections may be required and clearance may be delayed if the importer does not obtain a license or permit prior to shipment.
Information regarding the regulations forparticular commodities are available at:www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usdahome
LIFE SCIENCES
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide27
COSMETIC PRODUCTS & SkIN CARE
Allskincareandcosmeticproductsaresubjectto import inspection and approval from the FDA.SpecificinformationincludingafulllistofingredientsofeachproductshouldbeincludedwiththeCustomspaperwork.Cosmeticsmustbeproducedundersanitaryconditions,besafeandbemadefromapprovedingredients.
The FDA product code is available from:www.acceddata.fda.gov/scripts/ora/pcb/pcb.cfm
Regulated by the Food and Drug Administrationwww.fda.gov
Cosmetics must be produced under sanitaryconditions, be safe and made from approvedingredients.
The following information on EACH productshould be indicated on the invoice:• Type of product (skin lotion, pancake makeup …)• Number and type of container (plastic/glass, tube/bottle)• Country of Manufacture (separate line for each manufacturer)• Itemized value• Full list of ingredients• FDA product code
Cosmetic and Skincare Products
LIFE SCIENCES
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 28
PHARMACEUTICALS
TheU.S.FederalFood,Drug,andCosmeticActprohibitstheinterstateshipment(whichincludesimportation)ofunapprovednewdrugs.Thus,theimportationofdrugsthatlackFDAapproval,whetherforpersonaluseorotherwise,isaviolationoftheabovelaw.Unapprovednewdrugsareanydrugs,includingforeign-madeversionsofU.S.approveddrugs,thathavenotbeenmanufacturedinaccordancewithorpursuanttoanFDAapproval.UndertheAct,FDAmayrefuseimportationofanydrugthat‘appears’tobeunapproved,placingtheburdenontheimportertoprovethatthedrugsoughttobeimportedis,infact,approvedbytheFDA.
Any drug imported must have FDA approval. It is the importer’s responsibility to ensure that the drug being imported is approved.
Raw drugs and raw pharmaceuticals must beaccompanied by a Toxic Substances Control Act (TCSA) statement which must be completed and treated as an additional page to the Commercial Invoice.
Commercial Use
Non Citizen/Permanent Resident U.S. CitizensThe following information is required on the Commercial Invoice for drugs:• Correct country of origin/production• Correct manufacturer site• Product code• Precise description of product including packing, form, dosage, generic name, chemical consumption and derivation• Intended use (for use on humans?)• Accurate statement of quantity (must be applicable to product)• Confirmation as to whether the drugs contain any animal derivatives (if USDA regulation applies)• Affirmation of Compliance Codes: – REG: Drug establishment registration number for manufacture – DLS/NDC: Drug Listing Number – NDA: New Drug Application Number – IND: Exemption for Investigational New Drug Number for investigational or clinical trial use (need name of drug, Study Number is not sufficient).
The following information is required on the Commercial Invoice:• Passport Number• Description• Use (what condition is it used to treat? e.g. high blood pressure)• Value Breakdown• Proof of foreign citizenship (copy of valid passport or birth certificate)• Copy of prescription• Quantity• Dosage• Packing details• Chemical name
Pharmaceuticals
Personal MedicationWhy is the drug being imported?
Domestically available medicines are generally ineligible for importation by U.S. citizens. Medicines not domestically available may be imported by U.S. citizens who are participants in FDA approved clinical trials. Both the doctor and patient must have documentation verifying their participation in the trial.
LIFE SCIENCES
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide29
MEDICAL DEVICES
Foreignfirmsthatmanufacturemedicaldevicesand/orproductsthatemitradiationmustcomplywithapplicableU.S.regulationsbefore,duringandafterimportingintotheUnitedStates.Inordertoimportmedicaldevicesand/orproductsthatemitradiationintotheU.S.,theproductmustmeetFDAregulatoryrequirements.FDAdoesnotrecognizeregulatoryapprovalsfromothercountries.
FDA Product Code FDA Product Code
All FDA guidelines and advice on product and listing codes can be viewed at the FDA website http://www.fda.gov
Statement of Use
FDA Product Code
PMN (510K) Code (Not required for all goods)
LST Code (Medical Device Listing Number)
DEV Code (FDA Establishment Registration
Number of Distributor)
Regulated by the Food and Drug Administrationwww.fda.gov
Any device that comes into contact with, or in some way modifies the human body
Medical Devices
Requirements for details onCommercial Invoice
Commercial TransactionSample
PMA Code(for goods being sent to get approval
for commercial use in the US)
Part Finished goods for completion
LIFE SCIENCES
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 30
CHEMICAL MATERIALS
U.S.governmentagenciesrequestthatcustomersattachtheinvoicedeclarationwithspecificdetailsof the chemical materials in the shipments.
The following information is required on theCommercial Invoice:• What is it derived from?• How was it synthesized?(chemically or recombinant)• Must state “Contains no animal derivatives”• Proper chemical name, form, use• Must state “Non infectious/Non contagious” (if applicable)• Reason for importation• Ingredients (if applicable), trade name, generic name
Chemicals
Regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculturewww.usda.gov
This information must be supplied as ORIGINAL statements on letterhead from the producer/shipper in a clear and concise manner, and be available for review by the agriculture inspectors at the port of arrival.
To avoid potential delays please include the below statement on the invoice and description field of the air waybill.“Not Restricted per IATA DGR”It is also recommended that the commercial invoice is accompanied by the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
In addition, a Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) statement must be completed andtreated as an additional page to the Commercial Invoice.
Additional details can be found at
www.usda.gov
Further information
LIFE SCIENCES
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide31
FOOD AND DRINk
FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
Regulated by the Food and Drug Administration
www.fda.gov
Food and DrinkFDA Technical Support1 800 216 7331
Customers outside the U.S. need to set up an Account for Prior Notices before shipping:
http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~pn/pnoview.html
Sending hampers? These need to be described as
“Gift Hamper.” Hampers sent from a retail establishment require Prior Notice
when food or drink are included.
EXCEPTIONSPersonal Food Shipments Exemption
• The Prior Notice Number is required on ALL shipments going to the U.S. containing food and drink• The number should be visible in the description box of the Air waybill• The description should read “Food/Beverage Product”• A printed copy of the Prior Notice should also be attached to the Commercial Invoice to which a complete list of all commodities are broken down. This takes away the requirement on the Commercial Invoice
• Consignee in the U.S. needs to hold a Federal Alcohol Permit for alcohol to be shipped to them• The importer must also obtain a Certificate of Label Approval TTB Form S100.31, prior to importation• The Importer Permit Number needs to be clearly shown on the Invoice• Prior Notice Number is required• Power of Attorney is required by the Importer
These are shipments being sent fromperson to person for non-commercialpurposes, such as gifts purchased and sent by the person outside the U.S.
ALCOHOL
PRIOR NOTICEis required for all shipments
containing food shippedfrom a commercial establishment.
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 32
FDA REGULATED “FOOD” IMPORTS
ThePublicHealthSecurityandBioTerrorismPreparednessandResponseActof2002(BioterrorismActof2002[BTA])consistofprovisionsdesignedtoprotecttheUnitedStatesagainstbio-terroristthreatstotheU.S.foodsupply,withmajoremphasisonfoodfromforeignsources.TheU.S.FoodandDrugAdministration(FDA)releasedregulationsinresponsetotheBioterrorismActof2002(BTA)outliningspecificrequirementsonthe importation of food and food products.
Thisregulationhastwomajorrequirements: 1.RegistrationofFacilities 2.PriorNoticeofImportationofFood
Registration Of Facilities
TheFDArequiresthatdomesticandforeignfacilitiesthat manufacture, process, pack, or hold food forhumanoranimalconsumptionintheUnitedStatesregisterwiththeFDA.Farms,retailfacilities,restaurantsandnon-profitfoodfacilitiesinwhichfood is prepared for or served directly to the consumer areexemptfromtheserequirements.Note:Facilityregistrationisnotrequiredforprivatepersons sending or receiving items for personal use (e.g.Christmasgifts).
Prior Notice (PN) of Imported Food
TheFDArequiresthatU.S.purchasersorU.S.importersortheiragentssubmittotheFDApriornotice on the importation of food. This information willbeusedtoreview,evaluateandassesswhethertoinspect the imported food.
•Priornoticemustbesubmittednolessthanfourhoursbeforeflightarrival,butmaynotbesubmittedmore than five days prior to shipment arrival
•PriornoticeisrequiredatthefirstportofarrivalintheU.S.
PriorNoticeappliestofoodforhumansand/oranimals that is imported or offered for import into the U.S.Foodisdefinedasarticlesusedforfoodordrinkformanoranimals,suchaschewinggum,andarticlesused for components of any such articles
Examplesof“food”include:
•Dietarysupplementsanddietaryingredients •Infantformula •Beverages(includingalcoholicbeveragesand
bottledwater) •Fruitsandvegetables •Fishandseafood •Dairyproductsandshelleggs •Rawagriculturalcommoditiesforuseasfoodor
components of food •Cannedandfrozenfoods •Bakerygoods,snackfood,andcandy(including
chewinggum) •Livefoodanimals •Animalfeedsandpetfood
PriorNoticerequirementsapplyregardlessof:
•Quantityimported-appliestosamples,full orders etc.
•Purposeofimportation-appliestogoodsimported for testing, consumption etc.
•Typeoftransaction-appliestocommercialsales,samples, gifts, etc.
ThefollowingareexemptfromPriorNoticerequirements:
•Allpersonalfoodshipments:thesearefooditemssentpersontopersonfornon-commercialpurposes
•Foodinhouseholdgoods,includingmilitary,civilian, governmental agency and diplomatic transfers
Continued on next page
FOOD AND DRINk
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide33
•Foodpurchasedbyatravelerandmailedorshippedtothetraveler’sU.S.addressby the traveler
•Giftspurchasedatacommercialestablishmentandshippedbythepurchaser,notthe commercialestablishment
•Foodcontainedindiplomaticpouches Note: This does not include shipments (such as
Gift Baskets) sent from a retailer or distributor to an individual. Such shipments do require a Prior Notice.
Meatfoodproducts,poultryproductsandeggproductsthataresubjecttotheexclusivejurisdictionoftheU.S.DepartmentofAgriculture(USDA)andcomplywiththeUSDArulesandregulations.
FDA Prior Notice
1. FDAPriorNotice(PN)filedbytheshipper:DHLExpresswillrequireacopyofthePNconfirmationfor each food item. The shippers may include a copyofthePNConfirmation‘DetailSheet’(thissheetincludesdescription,productcode,etc.)Theconfirmationnumber(s)mustalsobeclearlyidentifiedontheshippinginvoice.Theairwaybilldescription of content must clearly identify FoodorFoodProduct.(RefertoFDAPriorNotice2004Update).
2. DHLExpressU.S.filesPNonbehalfofthe customer:DHLExpresswillrequirethefollowingelementsontheshippinginvoice.(RefertoDHLExpressFDARequiredInformationforPrior NoticeSubmission)
Separateidentificationofeachfoodarticleisrequired,including: •Thecommon,usualnameormarketname •Thequantitydescribedfromthesmallestpackage
sizetothelargestcontainer(includingthetypeofpackagingusedtopackagethefooditem)
•Thelotorcodenumbersorotheridentifiers •Completenameandaddressofthemanufacturer
orsupplierandtheirFDAregistrationnumber (ifavailable)
•Countryoforigin •Completenameandaddressofshipperandtheir
FDAregistrationnumber(ifavailable) •Completenameandaddressoftheimporter,
purchaserorultimateConsigneeandtheirFDAregistrationnumber(ifavailable)
•ClearfoodorfoodproductidentificationmarkedontheExpressWorldwideprealertairwaybilldescription and invoice description
Note:DHLExpresswillonlyprovidePriorNoticeservicewhenDHLExpressisservingastheCustomsbrokerfortheshipper.
CVG/ILN cvg.fdadesk@dhl.com
JFk jfk.fdadesk@dhl.com
LAX/RIV lax.fdadesk@dhl.com
MIA ImportMIA@dhl.com
SFO sfo.fdadesk@dhl.com
FDA PN contact information at relevant gateway
FOOD AND DRINk
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 34
OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY REQUIREMENTS
FISH AND WILDLIFE
TheU.S.FishandWildlifeService(FWS)regulatesimportsandexportsof:
• Non-domesticatedanimals
Wildlifeisanylivingordeadwildanimal,itsparts,and products made from it. Wildlife not only includes mammals,birds,reptiles,amphibians,andfish,butalsoinvertebratessuchasinsects,crustaceans,arthropods, mollusks, coelenterates.
• AnanimaldefinedbyFWStobeendangeredorthreatened species and products thereof.
Threatened&EndangeredSpeciesDatabaseSystem:http://ecos.fws.gov/tess_public/
• EnforcestheConventiononInternationalTradeinEndangeredSpeciesofWildFaunaandFlora(CITES).
Basedonthetypeofcommodity,specificpermitsorcertificatesarerequiredinordertocomplywithFWSrequirements.CustomersimportingcommoditiesregulatedbyFWSshouldbeawareoftheadditionalregulatoryrequirements. WhenimportingaproductregulatedunderCITESyoumusthaveavalidCITESdocument(certificateorpermit),includingaCITESexemptiondocument,toengageinthetradeofanyCITESspecimen.
VARIOUS AGENCY REQUIREMENTS
Lacey ActTheLaceyAct,firstenactedin1900andsignificantlyamendedin1981,istheUnitedStates’oldestwildlifeprotectionstatute.TheLaceyActcombatstraffickingin“illegal”wildlife,fishandplants. TheFood,Conservation,andEnergyActof2008amendedtheLaceyActtorequire,amongotherthings,thatimporterssubmitadeclarationatthetimeofimportation for certain plants and plant products. TheFederalAgenciesinvolvedwithenforcementoftheLaceyActare:
• UnitedStatesDepartmentofAgriculture(USDA)• CustomsandBorderProtection(CBP)• AnimalandPlantHealthInspectionServices(APHIS)
• UnitedStatesTradeRepresentative(USTR)• DepartmentofJustice• DepartmentofState• UnitedStatesFishandWildlifeServices(FWS)
For more information about the Lacey Act: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/lacey_act/
Further information
For more information about Wildlife requirements: www.fws.gov
Further information
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide35
PREFERENTIAL TRADE PROGRAMS
TheUnitedStatesisasignatorytomanyfreetradeagreementswithothercountriesorregionsaswellas unilateral preference programs that provide preferentialdutyratesforgoodsqualifyingunderthoseagreementsorprograms.Inadditiontoreducingor eliminating duties, some of these trade agreements orprogramsalsoeliminatetheMerchandiseProcessingFee(MPF)thatisdueonimportshipments.
Thefollowingareguidelinesforthecurrentfreetradeagreementsandpreferenceprograms:AfricanGrowthandOpportunityAct(AGOA),AndeanTradePreferenceAct(ATPA),AndeanTradePromotionandDrugEradicationAct(ATPDEA),CaribbeanBasinTradePartnershipAct(CBTPA),CaribbeanBasinEconomicRecoveryAct(CBERA)andGeneralizedSystemsofPreferences(GSP).
African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cape Verde, Cameroon, Chad, Union of the Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Gabonese Republic, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Republic of South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) None
FeesMerchandise Processing Fee (MPF) payable
Documentation RequiredUpon request from CBP, the importer must provide a statement attesting to the item (s) eligibility. Note: Records supporting the claim must be retained for 5 years. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 36
Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) & Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act (ATPDEA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Ecuador (EC) and Colombia (CO)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) None
Fees Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) payable
Documentation Required The Certificate of Origin (CF 449) must be in the possession of the importer at the time of entry. Note: The Certificate of Origin is not required for informal entries. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Barbados (BB), Belize (BZ), Guyana (GY), Haiti (HT), Jamaica (JM), Panama (PA), Saint Lucia (LC), Trinidad and Tobago (TT)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) None
Fees None - MPF does not apply
Documentation Required 1. Certificate of origin (CF 450) must be in possession of the importer at the time of entry. Note: Certificate not required for shipments valued below $2,500
2. Certificate may cover a single shipment or multiple shipment of similar goods for a 12-month period 3. Certificate may be in English or Spanish
POA Requirements 1. If Certificate of Origin (CF 450) is available at time of entry, POA required over $10,000 2. If Certificate of Origin (CF 450) is not available, POA required for all entries over $2,500 3. POA required for all textile entries
Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Netherlands Antilles, Panama, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, British Virgin Islands
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) None
Fees None - MPF does not apply
Documentation Required Upon request from CBP, the importer must provide a statement attesting to the item (s) eligibility. Note: The declaration is not required for informal entries. Records supporting the claim must be retained for 5 years. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide37
Generalized System of Preferences - (GSP)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Independent Countries: Albania, Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belize, Bolivia, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Cameroon, Colombia, Congo (Brazzaville), Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Dominica, Ecuador, Egypt, Eritrea, Fiji, Gabon; Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, kazakhstan, kenya, kosovo, kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Macedonia, Mauritius, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Philippines, Russia, St. kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Swaziland, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Zimbabwe
Non-Independent Countries and Territories: Anguilla, British Indian Ocean Territory, Christmas Island, Cocos (keeling) Islands, Cook Islands, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, Montserrat, Niue, Norfolk Island, Pitcairn Islands, Saint Helena, Tokelau, Turks and Caicos Islands , British Virgin Islands, Wallis and Futuna, West Bank and Gaza Strip, Western Sahara
GSP Least Developed Beneficiary Countries: Afghanistan, Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo (Kinshasa), Djibouti, East Timor, Equatorial,Guinea, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, kiribati, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Nepal, Niger, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tomé and Principe, Sierra Leone, The Solomon Islands, Somalia, Tanzania, Togo, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Republic of Yemen, Zambia
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) None
Fees MPF does not apply to Least-Developed Beneficiary Countries but is applicable for other GSP qualifying countries
Documentation Required Upon request from CBP, the importer must provide a statement attesting to the item (s) eligibility Note: A declaration is not required for Informal entries. Records supporting the claim must be retained for 5 yrs A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 38
U.S. - Australia Free Trade Agreement - (AFTA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Australia (AU)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) None
Fees None - MPF does not apply
Documentation Required Upon request from CBP, the importer must provide a statement attesting to the item (s) eligibility Note: Records supporting the claim must be retained for 5 years. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
U.S. - Bahrain Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (BFTA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Bahrain (BH)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) None
Fees None - MPF does not apply
Documentation Required Upon request from CBP, the importer must provide a statement attesting to the item (s) eligibility Note: Records supporting the claim must be retained for 5 years. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS
Thefollowingareguidelinesforsomeofthecurrentinternationalfreetradeagreements:Australia(AFTA),Chile(CFTA),DRCentralAmerica(CAFTA),Israel(ILFTA),NorthAmericanFreeTradeAgreement(NAFTA),PeruFreeTradeAgreement(PFTA),andSingapore(SFTA).
U.S. - Chile Free Trade Agreement (CFTA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Chile (CL)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) Yes
Fees None - MPF does not apply
Documentation Required 1. Upon request from CBP, the importer must provide a statement (declaration) attesting to the item (s) eligibility. Note: Declaration not required for shipments value below $2500 2. Declaration may cover a single shipment or multiple shipment of similar goods for a 12 month period. 3. Declaration may be in English or Spanish4. Certificate of Eligibility is required at the time of entry for applicable TPLs (not required at time of release)5. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide39
Dominican Republic - Central America - U.S. Free Trade Agreement and Implementation Act - (DR-CAFTA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Dominican Republic (DO), Costa Rica (CR), El Salvador (SV), Guatemala (GT), Honduras (HN), Nicaragua (NI)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) Yes
Fees None - MPF does not apply
Documentation Required 1. Declaration of origin must be in possession of the importer at the time of entry. Note: Declaration not required for shipments valued below $2500
2. Declaration may cover a single shipment or multiple shipment of similar goods for a 12 month period3. Declaration may be in English or Spanish4. Certificate of eligibility is required at the time of entry for applicable TPLs (not required at time of release)5. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
U.S. Israel Free Trade Area Implementation Act (ILFTA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Israel (IL)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) No
Fees MPF does not apply to ILMPF applies to QIZ
Documentation Required 1. Upon request from CBP, the importer must provide a statement attesting to the item (s) eligibility Note: Records supporting the claim must be retained for 5 years2. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Canada (CA), Mexico (Mx)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) Yes
Fees None - MPF does not apply
Documentation Required 1. Certificate of origin (CF 434) must be in possession of the importer at the time of entry 2. Certificate may cover a single shipment or multiple shipment of similar goods for a 12 month period 3. Certificate may be in English or Spanish 4. Certificate not required for non-commercial imports or line item with value below $2500 (Invoice or air
waybill must declare eligibility)5. Original Certificate of Eligibility for TPL’s is required for entry summary (not needed at time of release)
POA Requirements 1. If the Certificate of Origin (CF 434) is available at the time of entry, a POA is required if shipment value is over $10,000
2. If the Certificate of Origin (CF 434) is not available, a POA is required for all entries over $2500 3. POA required for all textile entries 4. POA required for all applicable TPL entries
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 40
U.S. – Peru Trade Promotion Agreement - (PTPA or PFTA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Peru (PE)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) No
Fees None - MPF does not apply.
Documentation Required 1. Declaration of origin must be in possession of the importer at the time of entry. Note: Declaration not required for shipments with an F.O.B value below $2,500
2. Declaration may cover a single shipment or multiple shipments of similar goods for a 12-month period 3. Declaration may be in English or Spanish4. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
U.S. - Singapore Free Trade Agreement - (SGFTA)
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: Singapore (SG)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) Yes
Fees None - MPF does not apply
Documentation Required 1. Upon request from CBP, the importer must provide a statement attesting to the item(s) eligibility 2. Certificate of Eligibility is required at the time of entry for TPL (needed at time of release)3. Records supporting claims must be retained for 5 yrs4. A POA may be required (See POA guidelines)
U.S. - Korean Free Trade Agreement
Eligible Beneficiary Countries: South korea (SPI Indicator: kR)
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) No
Fees None - MPF does not apply.
Documentation Required 1. Certification/ Declaration of eligibility must be in possession of the importer at the time of entry Note: Declaration not required for shipments valued below $2,5002. Declaration may cover a single shipment or multiple shipments of identical goods for a 12 month period 3. Declaration may be in English or korean. If submitted in korean, CBP may request an English translation
POA Requirements 1. If the declaration is available at the time of entry, a POA is required if shipment value is over $10,000 2. If the declaration is not available, a POA is required for all entries over $2500 3. POA required for all textile entries
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide41
ANTI-DUMPING AND COUNTERVAILING DUTIES
These types of duties are in addition to the normal dutyassignedtoacommodity.TheUnitedStatesAnti-Dumpinglawisdesignedtocounterinternationalpricediscrimination,commonlyreferredtoas“dumping.”DumpingoccurswhenaforeignfirmsellsmerchandiseintheU.S.marketatapricelowerthanthe“normalvalue”(NV)ofthemerchandise;generally,thisisthepricetheforeignfirmchargesforacomparableproductsoldinitshomemarket.Undercertaincircumstances,dumpingmayalsobeidentifiedbycomparingtheforeignfirm’sU.S.salespricetothepricetheforeignfirm charges in other export markets.
Withsimilareffect,butstemmingfromdifferentcauses,isCountervailing.HereforeigngovernmentsareunfairlysubsidizingtheirindustriesthatexporttotheUnitedStates.Examplesofunfairsubsidiesaretaxbenefitsrelatedtoexportingorgovernment/low-costloansforspecificcompaniesorindustries.Generally,thebenefitmustbelimitedtoaspecificgroupoffirmsorindustriesortoafirm’sexportactivitiesinordertobecoveredunderthislaw.
TheUnitedStatesDepartmentofCommerce(USDOC)investigatesbothAnti-dumpingandCountervailingcases.TheseinvestigationsarealmostalwaysinitiatedinresponsetopetitionsfiledbyanaffectedU.S.industry.TheaffectedU.S.Domesticindustryorcompanymustfile a petition, including details of the complaint for theUSDOCtoinvestigate.IfitisdeterminedthataU.S.industryhasbeeninjured,additionaldutieswillbeassignedtoelevatetheenteredvalueofthemerchandisetolevelsconsummatewithnormalvalue.
Tounderstandwhatdumpingis,itisalsoimportanttounderstandwhatdumpingisnot.Forexample,dumping is not the sale of foreign merchandise in the UnitedStatesatapricelessthanthepricechargedbyU.S.producersofthesamemerchandise.Inadumpingcase, the fact that foreign producers sell their products
atlowerpricesintheU.S.marketthanU.S.producersbecomesrelevantonlyinthecontextofdeterminingwhetherdumpedimportshavemateriallyinjuredaspecificU.S.industry.
Therefore,itisofparticularimportanceforU.S.companiestounderstandtheirremedies.Moreover,theimportingcommunityshouldbeawareofanysafeguardsthatmaybeinplacepriortopurchasingfor import, to prevent higher than anticipated import costs.DHL’sbrokerageprofessionalscanassistindetermining if these additional duties may apply.
PUNITIVE DUTY RATES
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 42
WHAT IS A CARNET?
AnATACarnet(AdmissionTemporaraire/TemporaryAdmissionor“MerchandisePassport”)isaninternationalCustomsdocumentthatsimplifiesCustomsproceduresbyitsuseastheentrydocumentinplaceofCustomsdocumentsthatarerequiredfortemporary importations
CarnetsfacilitateinternationalbusinessbyavoidingextensiveCustomsprocedures,eliminatingpaymentofCustomsdutiesandexcisetaxesandeliminatingthepurchaseoftemporaryimportbonds.
1.MerchandisecoveredbyATACarnetsincludes: •Commercialsamples,professionalequipment,and
goodsfortradeshowsandexhibitions
•Itemssuchascomputers,tools,camerasandvideoequipment,industrialmachinery,automobiles,gemsandjewelry,andapparel
•Extraordinaryitemssuchasartwork,bandinstruments, etc.
2.ATACarnetsdonotcoverconsumablegoods (foodandagricultureproducts),disposableitems, or postal traffic.
3. Carnetsaregenerallyvalidforlessthan12monthsfrom the date of issue. The period of validity for aCarnetisnotextendable,norcananewCarnetcoveringthesamearticlesbesubstitutedtogainanextension.TheCarnetsimultaneouslyservesasabondandtheentrydocumentforarticlesundervariousCustomsprocedures,suchastemporaryimportationandtransportationin-bond.
CARNETS
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide43
CUSTOMS-TRADE PARTNERSHIP AGAINST TERRORISM (C-TPAT) OVERVIEW
C-TPATisavoluntarygovernment-businessinitiativetobuildcooperativerelationshipsthatstrengthenandimproveoverallinternationalsupplychainandU.S.bordersecurity.U.S.CustomsandBorderProtection(CBP)recognizesthatthehighestlevelofcargosecuritycanbeobtainedonlythroughclosecooperationwiththeultimateownersoftheinternationalsupplychainsuch as importers, carriers, consolidators, licensed Customsbrokers,andmanufacturers.
Sharingthisconcernforsecurity,DHLExpressU.S.volunteeredtoparticipateinC-TPATin2003.Throughthiseffort,wehavebeenabletoassistinachievingCBP’sultimategoalofenhancingsecuritythroughupgrades and improvements of various elements of the supplychain.Currently,DHLExpressU.S.isaC-TPATmemberingoodstanding,havingbeencertifiedandcurrentlyvalidatedbyCBPthroughtri-annualinspections.
CUSTOMERS AND BUSINESS PARTNERS OVERVIEW
TodaymostofourmajorcustomersandbusinesspartnersrequireC-TPATcertificationinordertotransport their shipments. To provide information to customersandbusinesspartnersregardingourC-TPATcertification,wemustprovideaStatusVerificationIndicator(SVI)token.TheissuanceofthistokenisconsummatedthroughtheCustomsandBorderProtection’s(CBP)C-TPATportal.TheDHLExpressU.S.ITACgroupcanissuetheSVItokentocustomers.
ForStatusVerificationrequests,pleasesendanemailtoITACat:tradecompliance.usa@dhl.comwiththecustomer’sname,address,emailandtelephonenumberwith“C-TPATSVIRequest”inthesubjectline.
SECURITY CERTIFICATION
U.S. Customs Import Industry Guide 44
USEFUL LINkS
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES:
World Customs Organization http://www.wcoomd.org
U.S. Department of Commerce
http://www.doc.gov
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
http://www.fda.gov/
U.S. International Trade Commission
http://www.usitc.gov/
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
http://www.cbp.gov/
U.S. Department of Agriculture
http://www.usda.gov/
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
http://www.fws.gov/permits/ImportExport/Import/Export.shtml
U.S. Consumer Safety
http://www.cpsc.gov/
Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms and Explosives
http://www.atf.gov/
U.S. Trade Representative
http://www.ustr.gov
Information contained herein is intended for informational purposes only. DHL Express assumes no responsibility for any clerical errors or for regulatory information contained herein. Customers should seek their own counsel on matters that may affect their regulatory or financial responsibilities from engaging in international trade.
DHL Express1 800-CALL DHL1 800-225 5345www.dhl-usa.comAll services may not be available in all areas and are subject to DHL Terms and Conditions as published at www.dhl-usa.com. Aircraft not operated by DHL. © 2012 DHL Express (USA), Inc. All rights reserved. 07/12 PT04122
Partnering with the USCS to boost your exporting success. Visit export.gov/dhl
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