When importing goods into the United States, it’s not only the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that importers need to consider. Several government agencies have oversight over imports depending on the type of product, its origin, and its intended use. Failing to comply with their regulations can result in [...]
Importing goods into the U.S. can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a small business owner managing everything on your own. No trade team. No import department. Just you, your ideas, and your hustle. But here's the good news: you don't need a full trade team to import smartly. With the [...]
Importing goods promises savings and growth, but for many small and mid-sized U.S. businesses, hidden costs quietly erode margins. From unexpected duties to costly supply chain delays, these challenges often go unnoticed until profits vanish. These are the hidden costs of importing. From unexpected tariff spikes to documentation errors and [...]
As inflation and tariffs continue to squeeze U.S. businesses, importers are paying significantly more than they did just a year ago. For importers with limited pricing flexibility, the combined effect of these forces is a no-win situation. This blog unpacks how inflation interacts with tariffs to drive up costs—and what [...]
Import tariffs shape how companies source goods and determine pricing in the U.S. They act like a tax on products from abroad. In 2025, U.S. policymakers rolled out new duties on cars, metals, electronics, and everyday items. These moves aim to protect local industries and secure critical supply chains. But [...]
April 2025 brought a tidal wave of trade policy updates that are shaking up the U.S. import landscape. The Trump administration, under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act (IEEPA), announced new executive orders introducing universal tariffs, country-specific reciprocal tariffs, and critical changes to de minimis rules—all of which have far-reaching [...]
In today’s rapidly evolving global trade landscape, supply chain disruptions have become a growing concern for U.S. businesses. Many companies still rely on a limited number of suppliers, leaving them vulnerable to risks such as geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, and unforeseen disruptions like natural disasters or economic downturns. The recent [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
