Importer Responsibility (Part 1 of a Series)
We receive calls all the time with questions about importing new products into the United States. This is the first e-blast in a series that will address these questions. In this first e-blast we will address the responsibility of the importer. The importer of record is responsible for all aspects of the import in the eyes of all the government agencies. CBP, FDA, USDA.F&W, CPSAC etc, will all go to the importer of record with questions or problems with imports. Most people think that it is the Customs Broker that is responsible for the import transactions. That is a big misconception. The broker is acting on behalf of the importer.
- Is my product allowed into the United States?
- Where should is start when I want to import?
- Does my product require any special documentation or other government agency involvement?
Here are a few places you can educate yourself on the importing process.
- U.S. Customs
http://www.cbp.gov
http://rulings.cbp.gov - Food and Drug Administration
http://www.fda.gov
http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ora/pcb/pcb.cfm - Fish and Wildlife
http://www.fws.gov
https://edecs.fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/le/ImpExp/Regional_Permit_Offices.htm - International Trade Commission
http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/bychapter/index.htm - United States Department of Agriculture U.S.D.A.
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usdahome - Consumer Product Safety Commission
http://www.cpsc.gov
This will help you get started with the import process. Remember, the Government agencies expect you to be knowledgeable about the products that you bring into the United States. Use these websites to educate yourself with the rules and regulations that govern imports into the United States.