Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Importing & Customs Clearance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Importing & Customs Clearance
Navigating the import process can be complex, but KGB Customs is here to simplify it for you. Whether you’re a first-time importer or a seasoned business, understanding customs regulations, documentation, and compliance is essential. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about U.S. customs clearance, import taxes, licensing, and more.
If you need personalized assistance, our team of licensed customs brokers is ready to help streamline your imports and ensure smooth entry into the U.S. market.
Experience
Working since 2005
1. Do I Need a License to Import Something?
You do not need a general license to act as an importer, but some items require permits from specific government agencies. These may include food products, pharmaceuticals, plant and animal products, and trademarked or copyrighted goods. If you’re unsure whether your goods require a special license, reach out to KGB Customs for expert guidance.
For general merchandise not regulated by other agencies, importers can file entries on their own without a license or a customs broker, especially for shipments valued under $2,000. However, it’s important to note that importers—not their brokers—bear full legal responsibility for declaring goods correctly, submitting the necessary paperwork, and paying applicable duties.
2. Who Can Legally Be an Importer in the USA?
An importer is the party responsible for making the customs declaration and paying duties. This is typically the owner, purchaser, consignee, or a licensed customs broker acting on their behalf. The importer of record must be clearly identified in the shipping and invoicing documents and is accountable for compliance with U.S. Customs regulations.
3. What is a Customs Bond?
A customs bond is a financial guarantee ensuring that an importer complies with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. It acts as a security measure to cover any unpaid duties, taxes, or penalties.
Common uses of customs bonds include:
✅ Faster clearance – Allows goods to be released before all formalities are completed.
✅ Legal requirement – Required for shipments valued over $2,500 or subject to special regulations.
✅ Continuous coverage – Businesses with frequent imports can opt for an annual continuous bond instead of filing a new bond for each shipment.
4. What Documents Are Necessary for a Customs Entry?
To process an import entry, the following essential documents are required:
✔ Power of Attorney – Authorizing KGB Customs to act on your behalf.
✔ Commercial Invoice – Detailing the goods, their value, and country of origin.
✔ Packing List – Listing the contents of the shipment.
✔ Bill of Lading (BOL) – The transport document issued by the carrier.
✔ Certificate of Origin – Required for goods subject to trade agreements or specific tariffs.
Depending on your cargo, additional documents (such as FDA approval for food or DOT compliance for vehicles) may be required.
5. What is an ISF “10+2” Filing?
The Importer Security Filing (ISF), also known as “10+2”, is a mandatory requirement for ocean shipments entering the U.S. Importers must submit key cargo details to CBP at least 24 hours before loading at the foreign port. Failure to comply can lead to fines or shipment delays.
6. What Are Import Taxes?
Import taxes (also called import duties or tariffs) are levied on goods entering the U.S. The amount depends on:
✔ The country of origin
✔ The type of goods
✔ Their declared value
Some products qualify for duty-free entry, while others may be subject to higher tariffs based on trade regulations. Importers can determine the exact duty rates using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
7. What is OGA (Other Government Agency) Compliance?
In addition to CBP regulations, many imports must meet the requirements of other U.S. government agencies, such as:
✅ FDA (Food and Drug Administration) – Regulates food, drugs, and cosmetics.
✅ BIS (Bureau of Industry and Security) – Oversees controlled goods with dual military/civilian use.
✅ EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) – Ensures environmental safety of imported products.
✅ DOT (Department of Transportation) – Regulates vehicles and transport equipment.
✅ PMDTC (Office of Defense Trade Controls) – Controls imports affecting U.S. national security.
Ensuring compliance with all applicable agencies is critical to avoiding shipment delays or penalties.