USA Customs Clearance

Effective 21 November 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will implement new Enhanced Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) rules. Mandatory data will now include consignee contact details and shipment packing locations. A new "Verified Known Consignor" programme will offer streamlined filing. Shippers without this status face extensive conditional data requirements, including providing unmasked IP addresses, detailed customer account information, and, in some cases, biographic data from government-issued ID.

To calculate import duty from China to the USA, first find your product’s HTS code to get the duty rate. Multiply this rate by the customs value of your goods. Finally, add any additional Section 301 or 232 tariffs and include other required fees like the Merchandise Processing Fee.

To import into the US, register as an Importer of Record using an EIN or SSN and submit CBP Form 5106. Classify your products using the correct HTSUS code to calculate duties. Check if your goods need approval from agencies such as the FDA, USDA, EPA or CPSC. For ocean shipments, submit the Importer Security Filing (ISF or 10+2) at least 24 hours before loading. Most shipments over 2,500 dollars require a customs bond. Prepare documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and make sure items are marked with their country of origin. After arrival, a customs broker or importer files entry documents and duties must be paid within 10 business days. Keep all import records for five years.

The United States ended its de minimis exemption on August 29, 2025, removing duty free treatment for shipments under 800 dollars. This change retired Type 86 entries and made Type 11 Informal Entry the new standard for small imports. Importers must now pay duties and taxes on all shipments and provide accurate customs documentation. Businesses should update pricing, compliance processes, and logistics to align with the new U.S. import rules.