New to U.S. entries? This checklist covers the documents and decisions you need before the first shipment. It is written for occasional shippers; steady weekly accounts follow a simpler repeat process.
About you
- Do you have an importer of record number? Ask us how to get one if not.
- Do you know who will be the importer of record on this shipment?
- Do you have a customs bond (single-entry or continuous)? Most commercial imports need one.
- Have you signed a customs power of attorney so the broker can act for you?
About the goods
- A clear description of what the goods are and what they are made of
- The country of origin
- The value and how it was agreed (invoice, terms of sale)
- Whether any other agency regulates the goods (food, plants, animals, electronics, textiles)
- Whether you think USMCA applies, and if you have the certification
About the shipment
- Who is moving it, and by what mode
- The crossing, date and time you expect
- The commercial invoice and packing list in one email, before the truck leaves
Before you ship
- Tell the desk what you are shipping and when.
- Give the driver a number to call.
This list is general guidance and will not cover every product.