Export Documentation

Export Documentation for United States: Required Documents

Documents for shipping to or from United States: core documents, certificates, restricted goods, and customs procedures. Customs authority: U.S.

Country
United States
Customs authority
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Trading bloc
USMCA
Currency
USD
Estimated clearance
1-5 business days (standard), same-day possible for expedited entries

All commercial shipments require formal customs entry

ISF (Importer Security Filing) required 24 hours before vessel departure for ocean freight

FDA prior notice for food products

ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) filing

Core documents

  • Commercial Invoice (required): Detailed invoice with value, description, HS codes, origin
  • Packing List (required): Itemized list of package contents, weights, dimensions
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (required): Transport document from carrier
  • ISF (10+2) (required): Importer Security Filing for ocean shipments Must be filed 24 hours before vessel departure
  • CBP Form 3461 (required): Entry/Immediate Delivery form
  • CBP Form 7501 (required): Entry Summary form

Additional documents

  • Certificate of Origin: May be required for preferential duty rates (USMCA, GSP) Required for USMCA preferential treatment
  • FDA Prior Notice: Required for all food products Must be submitted before arrival
  • FCC Declaration: For electronic devices Required for radio frequency devices
  • TSCA Certificate: For chemical substances EPA requirement for chemicals
  • Lacey Act Declaration: For wood and plant products Required for wood products

Special certificates

  • FDA Registration: applies to Food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, issued by FDA.
  • USDA Phytosanitary Certificate: applies to Plants and plant products, issued by USDA APHIS.
  • FCC Certification: applies to Electronic devices, issued by FCC.
  • DOT Certification: applies to Vehicles and parts, issued by DOT NHTSA.
  • EPA Certificate: applies to Vehicles, engines, chemicals, issued by EPA.

Customs procedures

  • Automated Broker Interface (ABI) filing
  • Single Transaction Bond or Continuous Bond required
  • Duty payment within 10 days of entry summary
  • Post-entry amendments available

Restricted goods

  • Firearms and ammunition (require ATF approval)
  • Pharmaceuticals (FDA approval required)
  • Agricultural products (USDA permits)
  • Alcohol and tobacco (TTB permits)
  • Textiles and apparel (visa/quota requirements)

Prohibited goods

  • Counterfeit goods
  • Certain wildlife and products (CITES)
  • Illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia
  • Products from sanctioned countries (OFAC)
  • Certain military/defense items (ITAR)

Tips

  • File ISF early - late filing penalties are $5,000+
  • Use a licensed customs broker for complex shipments
  • Verify HS codes match between origin and US tariff schedule
  • Check for any applicable trade remedies (anti-dumping duties)
  • Ensure proper country of origin marking on goods

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Frequently asked questions

What is ISF 10+2 and when is it required?

ISF (Importer Security Filing) is required for all ocean cargo entering the US. It must be filed at least 24 hours before vessel departure, containing 10 data elements from the importer and 2 from the carrier.

Do I need a customs bond to import into the US?

Yes, a customs bond is required for all formal entries. You can use a single transaction bond for one shipment or a continuous bond for multiple shipments throughout the year.

What are the penalties for late or inaccurate filing?

Late ISF filing can result in fines of $5,000+ per violation. Inaccurate documentation can lead to holds, examinations, and penalties ranging from warning letters to seizure.