Documents & Customs
Commercial Invoice and Packing List: what we need
We need a complete, accurate Commercial Invoice and Packing List for every shipment — they're the two documents customs uses to clear your cargo. The...
ISF, POA and IOR basics
Three terms come up early when you import into the U.S.: ISF, POA, and IOR. The Importer of Record (IOR) is you — the party legally responsible for...
Bill of Lading: what it is and the common types
A Bill of Lading (B/L) is the core document that travels with your cargo. It does three jobs at once: it's a receipt proving the carrier took your go...
The customs clearance process
Customs clearance is the process of getting your imported cargo legally admitted into the country. Three parties make it happen: the customs authorit...
Safety standards, labeling, and country of origin
Before you import a product, make sure it meets U.S. safety standards, carries the right labeling, and is marked with its correct country of origin. ...
Customs exams and holds: what to expect
A customs exam or hold means U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) wants to check your shipment before releasing it. It's a routine part of import...
Customs duties and HTS codes
Customs duty is a tax you pay to import goods, and the rate is set by your product's tariff classification — its HTS code . Every product you import...
Who to name as the consignee on your Bill of Lading
The consignee is the party who takes possession of your goods when the cargo is released at destination, and it's named on the Bill of Lading . In m...