What documents are required for U.S. customs clearance?

Most U.S. customs entries need these documents: • Commercial Invoice – Includes product descriptions, values, and importer/exporter details • Packing List – Details weight, dimensions, and number of items in the shipment • Bill of Lading (BOL) or Airway Bill (AWB) – Proof of shipment details and carrier information • HTS Classification – Ensures proper duty assessment • FDA Prior Notice or USDA Import Permit (if applicable)

How can I avoid customs delays and detentions?

• Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete before shipment • Use correct HTS codes to prevent misclassification penalties • File Importer Security Filing (ISF) on time for ocean shipments • Verify FDA, USDA, or TTB requirements before shipping regulated products

What is an Importer Security Filing (ISF), and when is it required?

ISF is required for ocean shipments and must be filed at least 24 hours before vessel departure. It provides advance data to CBP to assess risk and security compliance.

What happens if my customs documentation is incorrect?

Incorrect customs paperwork can lead to: • Shipment delays or detentions • Fines and penalties from CBP • Additional inspections or reclassification fees Our team can review, correct, and resubmit documentation to ensure compliance.

How do I determine the correct HTS code for my product?

HTS codes are based on product descriptions, materials, and intended use. We provide expert classification services to ensure: • Correct tariff rates and duty calculations • Avoidance of penalties from CBP audits • Eligibility for trade agreements and duty-free benefits

Do I need a Customs Bond for my imports?

A Single-Entry Bond covers one import, while a Continuous Bond is designed for frequent importers. We help determine and arrange the appropriate bond for your import activity.

US Customs Documentation & Import Support

Overview

Service overview

We prepare and review your customs entry documents, classify products under the HTS and help you secure the right customs bond for clearance.

Cargo containers moving through an international port

Why this service matters

CBP, the FDA, USDA and TTB need accurate import documentation to process shipments.
Errors in invoices, packing lists or HTS classification can mean incorrect duties, delays and penalties.
Missing Prior Notice, permits or certificates can hold up clearance.

Customs Entry Documentation Preparation & Review

We prepare and review the customs entry documents your shipments require.

Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Bill of Lading preparation
HTS Code classification to ensure correct tariff and duty application
Country of Origin and Valuation documentation for CBP declarations

Product documentation being reviewed for compliance — Food & Beverage
US Customs Documentation & Support

Customs Bond Assistance

Most importers need a customs bond for shipments entering the US, and we help you secure the right type for your business.

Assistance with obtaining a Single-Entry or Continuous Customs Bond
Guidance on bond amount calculation based on import volume
Ensuring compliance with CBP regulations for bonded shipments

Importer Security Filing (ISF) for Ocean Shipments

Ocean freight shipments require an Importer Security Filing (ISF) before departure, and failure to file can result in CBP penalties.

ISF submission to CBP before the vessel departs
Verification of supplier and importer details for accuracy
Reduced exposure to CBP non-compliance penalties

Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Code Classification

Incorrect HTS codes can lead to overpaying duties or CBP audits, so we identify the correct classification for your products.

Identification of correct HTS codes for duty calculation
Tariff and trade agreement eligibility verification (e.g., USMCA, GSP)
Minimising risk of reclassification penalties and fines

FDA, USDA, & TTB Regulatory Compliance Support

Some products need additional approvals from the FDA, USDA or TTB, and we arrange the required documentation before arrival.

FDA Prior Notice Filing for food, beverages, and dietary supplements
USDA Import Permits & Phytosanitary Certificates for agricultural goods
TTB Label Approval (COLA) for alcohol imports

Customs Audit & Compliance Reviews

Our customs compliance audits help importers identify and correct documentation errors before shipments arrive.

Review of previous CBP filings to identify risks and discrepancies
Assessment of HTS classifications and duty payments
Implementation of corrective action plans to avoid future customs penalties

Ongoing compliance support

Time-Saving
We prepare and check your entry documents, so you aren't fixing paperwork at the port.
Regulatory Assurance
Accurate classification, valuation and origin details support compliant CBP declarations.
Peace of Mind
Fewer documentation errors mean less risk of delays, penalties and unexpected fees.

What you'll need

Clean customs entries start with complete trade documents.

Commercial documentsCommercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading.
HTS classificationCorrect codes for tariff and duty.
Origin and valuation recordsSupporting data for your CBP declaration.
A customs bondSingle-entry or continuous, sized to your volume.
ISF details for ocean freightSupplier and importer data filed before the vessel departs.

US Customs Documentation & Support