Importing into the United States
Required Documents
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (ocean) or Air Waybill (air)
- ISF (Importer Security Filing) — ocean shipments only, filed 24 hours before loading
Required Identifiers
| Identifier | Who Needs It | Format |
|---|
| EIN | Importer | XX-XXXXXXX |
| CBP Assigned Number | Importer (alternative to EIN) | 9 digits |
| FMC License | Freight forwarder | 6 digits |
HS Code Requirements
- US uses the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) — 10-digit codes
- Published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC)
- Updated quarterly
- Klervex validates against the current HTS schedule
Example: 8542.31.0000 (Electronic integrated circuits - Processors)
Duty Rates
- MFN rates apply to most countries (Normal Trade Relations)
- Column 2 rates apply to specific sanctioned countries
- Free Trade Agreement rates — USMCA, KORUS, etc. require Certificate of Origin
- GSP rates — Generalized System of Preferences for developing countries
Common Rejection Reasons
- HTS code not 10 digits
- Missing ISF for ocean shipments
- EIN format incorrect
- Goods description too vague ("miscellaneous goods")
- Country of origin not declared per line item
Regulatory Bodies
| Agency | Role |
|---|
| CBP (Customs and Border Protection) | Import clearance |
| USITC | Tariff schedule |
| BIS (Bureau of Industry and Security) | Export controls |
| OFAC | Sanctions enforcement |