Changing tariffs by origin
Section 301 and other trade measures add duties that change often.
The United States is the world's largest tech market. Importing to USA requires a CBP importer number, a customs bond, FCC authorization for electronic devices and, for ocean cargo, an Importer Security Filing. Every shipment you import into USA is checked against these records. One missed step can lead to holds or seizure. TradeWise acts as your importer of record USA and manages the filings for you.
New YorkUSAEuropeGulfTrade lanes from the USA to Europe and the Gulf
Every formal entry needs a bond, and every ocean shipment needs an ISF.
A customs bond is a financial guarantee to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that duties and fees will be paid.
It is required for formal entries, which cover most commercial shipments valued over $2,500. The Importer Security Filing, or "10+2", must reach CBP at least 24 hours before your cargo is loaded at the foreign port. Late or wrong ISF data can bring penalties of up to $5,000 per violation.
Exporter Held Compliance, With TradeWise as IOR
First, you share your invoice, product details and FCC records. Then, you name TradeWise as the entity legally responsible for importing your goods. Once this is set up, all future shipments follow the same smooth process. You stay listed as the exporter on every document. Our IOR services USA cover the bond, the entry and every import formality.
Ask about USA setupUSA spotlight
Every USA shipment follows this path when TradeWise is your importer of record.
FCC authorization, HTSUS codes and origin are matched to each product.
We file through CBP's ACE system with the right HTSUS codes.
Customs duty, the Merchandise Processing Fee and any extra tariffs.
CBP checks are completed, then the goods are released for delivery.
What U.S. Customs Checks Before Your Goods Are Released
CBP clears all imports into the United States. Duty depends on the HTSUS code of each item, and many IT products enter at 0% under the WTO Information Technology Agreement.
Extra tariffs can apply by origin, such as Section 301 duties on goods made in China, and these rates change often. Wondering how to import laptops and servers to USA? Start with these four checks.
Before you ship
TradeWise prepares and checks this whole file for you before dispatch.
North America region
North American customs authorities review data before the cargo arrives. Port delays happen when one document is missing or does not match. That is where TradeWise steps in. Our specialists check certificates, origin records and classification before your shipment leaves, keeping your USA import customs clearance on schedule.
These five issues slow down most shipments.
Section 301 and other trade measures add duties that change often.
CBP can detain goods with inputs from the Xinjiang region under the UFLPA.
CBP can detain or seize electronic devices that lack valid FCC authorization.
If you write a price on your paperwork that is lower than what your goods are actually worth, customs will notice.
Advanced chips may fall under U.S. export rules when they move on.
Are you shipping to multiple markets? Open the guide for each country on your route.
70 country guides across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas and Oceania.
Browse all countriesOutbound
Three services remove the most common causes of delay in the United States.
TradeWise prepares and files every customs document correctly. Our IOR services USA help you import IT equipment to USA without holds or delay.
IORWe confirm FCC records and keep the bond active, so every entry is ready.
FCC and BondOur team values your goods from the start to avoid costly reassessments.
ValuationThese are the USA import regulations for IT equipment, the rules your goods must satisfy before they can be sold or used. Do I need an importer of record in USA? If you have no U.S. entity, yes. TradeWise can take that role.
Most Important for Tech Imports
The Federal Communications Commission authorizes devices that emit radio energy, through Certification or a Supplier's Declaration of Conformity. Laptops, servers and Wi-Fi devices all fall under its rules.
TradeWise checks FCC status before shipping.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection clears all imports, collects duties and fees and enforces trade rules.
The Importer Security Filing is a CBP security rule for ocean cargo, filed before loading.
Formal entries cannot be released without an active bond.
The United States is the world's largest importer and a global hub for cloud and AI growth. Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York and New Jersey, and Savannah are among its busiest seaports.
Its main trading partners include Mexico, Canada, China and Germany.
Changing tariffs and strict filings are real hurdles. With the right partner, shipments stay compliant, efficient, and cost-effective, whether you import tech goods or export dual-use products.
Public holidays can delay shipping deadlines and slow down ports.
4 July
A federal holiday with reduced customs staff.
Late November
The fourth Thursday of November.
25 December to 1 January
Holiday closures can delay clearance.
Every Week
The weekend in the United States. Plan customs work for Monday to Friday.
Tell us what you are shipping. Our team will help you with all the requirements and paperwork. After that, we will send you a quote with every cost listed.
Emailinfo@tradewiseint.com
Phone+971 50 713 0614
Guides from the TradeWise knowledge base.
Compliant, secure, and reliable global shipping and infrastructure lifecycle services.
Need expert services or any help? Our team offers lifecycle solutions across the global market.