Importing goods into the United States opens the door to new markets, lower production costs, and expanded product lines. But it also introduces a maze of regulations, documentation requirements, and logistical complexities that many new importers underestimate. Without the right preparation — and without the right international trade partner — a business can face delays, fines, or even seizure of its goods.
At Hawthorne Global Logistics, we’ve worked with businesses across nearly every industry, helping them move goods through customs efficiently and without issues. If your company is thinking about importing into the U.S., here’s what you need to know before you get started.
Understand the Role of U.S. Customs and Why Compliance Matters
Every shipment that enters the U.S. is subject to review and clearance by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This agency ensures that all imports comply with U.S. laws, are correctly declared, and have the appropriate duties paid.
For business owners, this means more than just getting the right forms filled out — it means understanding how your goods are classified, which agencies regulate them, and how to avoid costly missteps that could delay or derail your shipment.
A licensed customs broker becomes essential at this stage. Acting as your liaison between CBP and your business, your broker ensures accurate classification, proper documentation, and timely filings. They also work to make sure your goods move through the customs warehouse or port of entry without unnecessary holdups.
Secure the Right Permits and Licenses
Many products entering the U.S. require permits, registrations, or certifications. For example:
- Food and beverage imports must meet strict FDA and USDA guidelines.
- Electronics may require compliance with FCC standards.
- Textiles and apparel can be subject to quota limitations.
- Chemicals and environmental products may fall under EPA oversight.
If your products are regulated by a partner agency (like the FDA or EPA), your customs broker can help you secure the required paperwork before your goods even leave their country of origin.
Know What Documents You’ll Need
To avoid delays or rejected entries, it’s crucial to have the correct documentation ready to go before your shipment hits the water. At a minimum, you’ll need:
- A commercial invoice with an accurate description of the goods, price, and terms of sale
- A bill of lading or air waybill that proves shipping and transport details
- A packing list that helps CBP confirm what’s inside each container
- A certificate of origin, especially if you’re claiming benefits under a trade agreement
- Import permits, if applicable
Documentation errors are one of the most common causes of delays and fines. That’s why your customs broker should review and submit everything on your behalf to ensure compliance.
Be Prepared for Duties, Taxes, and Tariffs
All goods entering the United States are subject to customs duties unless specifically exempted. Duties vary by product type, country of origin, and value. The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) provides the legal classification system for determining duty rates.
If you misclassify your goods — or if your declared value is inaccurate — CBP may audit your business, delay your shipment, or impose penalties.
A knowledgeable international trade partner will help you identify potential duty drawbacks, exemptions, or Free Trade Agreement benefits, and ensure your goods are classified and valued properly.
Understand Importer Security Filing (ISF)
For ocean shipments, the Importer Security Filing, also known as the 10+2 rule, must be filed 24 hours before goods are loaded onto a vessel bound for the U.S. This filing includes critical details about the cargo, such as supplier information, container stuffing location, and commodity descriptions.
Missing or late ISF filings can result in fines of up to $5,000 per shipment. Your customs broker should handle this step as part of their service.
Choose the Right Port and Warehouse Strategy
Where your goods arrive and how they’re processed matters. Working with a customs warehouse that’s located near a major port — like our facility just minutes from the Port of Houston — provides several key advantages:
- Faster drayage from ship to warehouse
- Reduced transportation and storage costs
- Quicker customs inspections and release times
- Less risk of demurrage fees or port congestion delays
Customs warehouses offer secure, bonded storage where goods can be held while duties and paperwork are finalized. They can also be used to break down shipments or repackage goods without triggering immediate customs duties, which is helpful for businesses operating with just-in-time inventory.
Don’t Overlook Labeling and Packaging Requirements
It’s not enough for your product to be high quality — it also needs to be packaged and labeled correctly. Certain products must list the country of origin, contents, warnings, or safety standards to be allowed into U.S. commerce.
This is especially important for industries like:
- Food and beverages
- Health supplements
- Personal care products
- Children’s toys and apparel
If your product arrives at a customs warehouse and is flagged for improper labeling, you could face repackaging costs, destruction of goods, or denial of entry. Avoid the risk by verifying all packaging requirements before shipping.
Trust Hawthorne Global As Your International Trade Partner
There’s no substitute for experience when it comes to moving goods across international borders. Partnering with a logistics provider that understands the U.S. import process can mean the difference between a smooth transaction and a logistical nightmare.
At Hawthorne Global Logistics, we act as an extension of your team. Since 1959, we’ve been helping businesses move products efficiently and compliantly across the globe. Our in-house customs brokerage team bonded customs warehouse, and proximity to the Port of Houston make us an ideal partner for companies looking to streamline their supply chains.
We don’t just move cargo — we manage the full process:
- Customs clearance
- Import documentation
- ISF filings
- Duty classification
- Last-mile coordination
- Warehouse handling and distribution
Reach out today to learn how we can help your business grow through smarter, faster international logistics.
