Importing goods into the U.S. offers excellent opportunities for small businesses. Tariffs, duties, and various fees can complicate the process. Knowing how these charges work helps you control costs and comply with U.S. law. This guide explains import tariffs and duties, why they matter, and how to reduce them. We [...]
In recent weeks, the U.S. government has introduced significant changes to import tariffs, directly impacting customs brokers and importers nationwide. The National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), representing over 1,300 member companies, is actively providing guidance to ensure compliance with these new regulations. Overview of Recent Tariff [...]
Importing goods into the United States involves navigating various regulations, permits, and inspections governed by multiple government agencies. Knowing which commodities require special permits and approvals can help ensure smooth customs clearance. Here is a comprehensive guide to the key categories of regulated commodities and their associated requirements. 1. Agriculture, [...]
If you're a small business owner looking to expand by importing goods into the USA, you know that dealing with paperwork can feel overwhelming. We understand the struggle—wrestling with a stack of documents, worrying that one tiny mistake could derail your shipment. This guide breaks down the essential documents you [...]
In a recent move, the Trump administration announced a delay in the suspension of the “de minimis” provision, which has played a pivotal role in supporting international e-commerce. This policy allows packages valued under $800 to enter the United States without being subjected to tariffs, a key factor in driving [...]
The recent closure of the Section 321 loophole for inbound shipments from China has sent shockwaves through the e-commerce industry. Retailers that relied on de minimis entries to bypass duties and streamline imports now face new compliance challenges. However, strategic adjustments, including transitioning to Type 01 formal entries with consolidated invoices, [...]
NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, was a landmark trade deal signed by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 1992. It came into effect in 1994 and remained active for over two decades before being replaced by the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2020. The transition from NAFTA to USMCA introduced new [...]
Managing international trade can feel overwhelming, especially with its many complexities and challenges. Importing and exporting often involve complex paperwork, ever-changing regulations, and unexpected fees. One small oversight can result in delays, additional costs, or even your shipment being held at the border. That’s where customs brokers step in to [...]
Despite careful packaging and trusted carriers, shipments often face unforeseen challenges, especially in e-commerce. From rough handling to unpredictable weather, many risks can jeopardize the safe delivery of your goods. For businesses, losing a shipment can result in not just financial losses but also the erosion of client trust and long-term relationships. You [...]
As we enter 2025, the incoming administration has signaled its intent to reassess trade policies, potentially resulting in broad tariff increases. Importers across all industries may feel the impact, with higher costs affecting supply chains and overall profitability. Now is the time to take proactive steps to prepare and mitigate these [...]
