Importing Goods into the USA: Key Points for Businesses

All international logistics and shipping operations are complex and regulated differently in each country. In the United States, customs law imposes strict requirements on imports. Each product category is overseen by a specific regulatory agency.

Main Agencies Regulating Imports in the USA

The U.S. product standardization system is largely decentralized and sector-specific. Technical requirements and standards are developed not only by the government but also by independent organizations (agencies). Industry associations play a crucial role in this process.
In addition to the standard document check, customs authorities may conduct an examination, i.e., a full inspection of the shipment. This is officially called a Customs Examination.
All costs are borne by the importer. It’s important to know which agency to contact:

• Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) – Oversees a range of consumer products (toys, household appliances, electronics, furniture, and children’s products), whether shipping to the U.S. by sea or other modes.
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Monitors the safety of food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, tobacco, medical devices, and animal feed.
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Covers agricultural products, including meat, eggs, fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, etc.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Regulates the import of chemicals, pesticides, and vehicles.
• Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) – Regulates the import of alcohol and tobacco products such as beer, wine, and cigarettes.
• Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) – Controls the health of imported live animals and plants, regardless of the mode of transport (air, sea, etc.). Also handles seeds and animal products.

Below is a list of useful links to the official websites of agencies involved in import regulation. However, this is far from exhaustive.
It’s important to note that in the U.S. bureaucratic system, inspection of imported goods is not uncommon, but a standard practice. It aims to ensure consumer safety. So, if your declarations, certificates, licenses, and shipping documents are compliant with U.S. law, there’s no reason to panic.

Import Duties in the U.S.: What Importers Should Expect

Import tariffs in the U.S. form a complex system. There is no single "average" rate applicable to all goods. The tariff depends on various factors:

• HS Code (Harmonized System). Each product has a unique 6–10-digit classification code. A shirt will have one code, a smartphone another, and a car part yet another.
• Country of Origin. The U.S. maintains different trade agreements with various countries.
• Customs Value. Tariffs are calculated as a percentage of the customs value. In the U.S., this is typically based on FOB (Free On Board) — the product’s value at the point of export, excluding shipping and insurance.
• Product Type. Some goods, like books, art, or pharmaceuticals, may be exempt from duties or face low rates. Others, such as clothing, may be taxed at 10–30%. Alcohol, tobacco, and fuel are subject to excise taxes.
• De Minimis Value Exemption Has Been Removed. Previously, goods valued under $800 (FOB) were exempt from tariffs and taxes. Now, a flat 10% base tariff applies to all imports.

We strongly recommend hiring a customs broker to ensure a smooth import process with all appropriate duties paid.

Where to Find Lists of Goods Subject to Inspection

If your business plans to import to the U.S., it’s useful to check product lists on the following platforms:

• Official agency websites. Updated information can be found in the importer sections or product-specific pages.
• Import management systems. Notable platforms include the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) and the Border Interagency Executive Council (BIEC).
• Publications and manuals. Many agencies publish guides listing product categories with import requirements.

Here are some examples of helpful resources where suppliers or sellers can find detailed info on standards, product requirements, and inspection procedures:

• CPSC Importer Resource Center. Offers information on safety standards for different product categories (e.g., toys, electrical goods), and how to certify them for import.
• FDA Import Portal. Provides guidelines for food, drug, and cosmetic quality standards and the required documentation for U.S. entry.
• USDA Importer Section. Details phytosanitary requirements for agricultural goods, packaging and labeling standards, and document submission procedures.

Although importing products into the U.S. may seem complex at first, once you understand the main requirements, most questions are resolved. However, stay informed about updates related to your product category.

Logistics company DiFFreight: minimizing the risks of import to the USA

Our services include the delivery of goods from Ukraine to the USA, including customs clearance of import in accordance with the norms of American legislation. Our professional customs brokers will prepare a package of documents for the unimpeded import of goods into the country.

You should also understand that customs inspection is not a sentence or a hopeless situation if all the documents for the goods are drawn up correctly. With the assistance of an experienced, competent DiFFreight specialist, this issue can be resolved without negative consequences.