Consumer Prod SafetyImprovement Act

New import requirements for consumer goods took effect on November 12, 2008.

Beginning on that date importers must certify in writing that products being imported for warehousing and/or consumption conform to the rules, bans, regulations or standards administered by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

The new requirements apply to nearly all categories of consumer goods, including:

• fabrics
• wearing apparel
• toys
• jewelry
• sporting goods
• furniture
• hazardous material
• all-terrain vehicles
• even pharmaceuticals subject to child-resistant cap standards

The new certificate of conformity guidelines:

• Only the importer must issue the certificate.
• Foreign manufacturers and private labelers of imported products do not need to issue certificates, and they do not need to be listed as parties on certificates. For products manufactured in the United States, only the domestic manufacturer needs to issue the certificate.
• The certificate, in hard copy or electronic form, must be available to the CPSC no later than the time the shipment is available for inspection in the U.S.
• The certificate must contain the following information:
  • Identification of the product covered by the certificate;
  • Citation to each CPSC regulation to which the product is being certified;
  • Identification of the importer (or domestic manufacturer, as applicable) certifying compliance (including name of company, full mailing address, and phone number).
  • Contact information for individual maintaining the test results, including the persons name, email address, full mailing address, and phone number.
  • Date (at least month and year) and place (including city and country or territory or administrative region) where the product was manufactured. If the same manufacturer operates more than one location in the same city, the street address of the factory in question should be provided.
  • Date and place (including city and country or territory or administrative region) where the product was tested for compliance with the cited regulation.
  • Identification of any third-party lab on whose testing the certification depends, including name, full mailing address and phone number.
• CPSC recommends that each issuer maintain test records supporting the certification for at least three years.

Free Trade Agreements

Bilateral free trade agreements or unilateral autonomous preferential agreements allow the import clearance of certain products with a reduced duty rate or with a full duty exemption. The products benefiting from the preferential treatment must fulfil the necessary rules of originating in a country or territory covered by the preferential trade agreement.

An exporter who wants his products to benefit from the preferential treatment must be able to prove that his products fulfill the rules to be originating in a country or territory covered by the preferential trade agreement and they must provide a preferential document validated by the customs authorities or document with a valid preferential statement issued by themselves.

The preferential trade agreement foresees the following preferential proofs under CETA-see Miscellaneous.

Import Declaration

Any shipment that is a U.S. good returning and has a value over US$10,000.00 requires the presentation of a Manufacturer's Affidavit to Customs.

MSDS-NON DG

Goods under IATA Special Provisions A67 require a MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet).

It is not required for all, however shipments can be held by local authority in United Arab Emirates after screening due to lack of MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) or NON DG (Dangerous Goods) declaration letter from the shipper resulting to misconnections and impacting end-to-end service.

It would be advisable for all shipments originating, transiting and terminating for UAE to have MSDS or NON DG declaration from shipper enclosed in the shipment and copies to be uploaded in IDIS.

NAFTA Certificate of Origin

NAFTA allows preferential duty treatment for shipments of commercial goods** made or manufactured in Canada, Mexico or the U.S., including Puerto Rico when these goods are shipped between the NAFTA countries or territories. Preferential duty treatment simply means a possible lower rate of import duty or elimination of import duty. The following information applies to commercial goods made or manufactured within the NAFTA countries or territories only.

To qualify for a possible lower rate or elimination of duty, commercial shipments with a value over $2,500.00 USD, must provide a completed NAFTA Certificate of Origin.

To qualify for a possible lower rate or elimination of duty, commercial shipments with a value equal to or under $2,500.00 USD, must have either:

• A completed NAFTA Certificate of Origin, or
• The NAFTA Statement on the commercial invoice.

Paperless NAFTA Certificate of Origin - Exports
UPS NAFTA Paperless Invoice is available for small package exports from this country or territory.

Paperless NAFTA Certificate of Origin - Imports
UPS NAFTA Paperless Invoice is accepted by Customs for small package imports into this country or territory.

NAFTA Statement

"I hereby certify that the good covered by this shipment qualifies as an originating good for purposes of preferential tariff treatment under the NAFTA"

Note: Non-commercial shipments made or manufactured in NAFTA countries or territories do not require the NAFTA statement or NAFTA C of O. These shipments will receive preferential duty treatment as long as the goods in the shipment are made or manufactured in a NAFTA country or territory and are shipped between NAFTA countries or territories.

Power of Attorney

Power of Attorney (POA) is obtained to transfer the liability for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) compliance to the importer. If the POA has been properly executed, the importer is responsible for default of further obligations to CBP.

It is essential that the following guidelines be followed in order to limit the potential liability of UPS SCS when it otherwise may qualify as an Importer of Record (IOR) for all service levels associated with the small package operations.

These guidelines are not intended to cover all possible scenarios that might require UPS SCS to obtain a POA from a customer. Some examples that might change the decision as to whether to obtain a POA include:

When customer is the subject of a CBP penalty or another government agency investigation

If UPS SCS has been penalized by CBP or another government agency for inaccurate information furnished by customer

When customers credit history is poor

When the customers shipment values fluctuate without adequate explanation

POA Requirements for all service levels

POA is required from the customer when the entered value of a single shipment exceeds $50,000 USD.

In the following cases a POA is required regardless of shipments entered values:

All Temporary Import Bonds (TIB)

Any shipment that is similar to a shipment that Customs has found not to be legally marked under the country or territory of origin marking laws (i.e. Not Legally Marked (NLMs)).

Shipments requiring a conditional release from Participating Government Agencies (PGA) such as Food & Drug Administration and Fish & Wildlife Service

Formal commercial shipments containing finished tobacco products, alcoholic beverages

Products subject to antidumping or countervailing duty orders

Shipments subject to the Lacey Act where UPS files the declaration

Shipments subject to Free Trade Agreements containing textiles

Steel License

A steel licensing system has been instituted to facilitate the monitoring of certain steel imports. Under the "reasonable care" guidelines, it is the responsibility of the Importer or the Importer's Broker to obtain a steel license on all entries for consumption of covered steel products.

You can apply for a license up to 60 days prior to the expected date of importation.

For more information, contact the Import Administration or see http://www.ia.ita.doc.gov/steel/license

The filer must print the license at the time of filing. The Department of Commerce will e-mail confirmation of the application and license number.

The fee for an application or an Import License is US$21.75.

The license is valid for 75 days and cannot be reused.

A single license can only be presented with one Entry Summary (CBP 7501) and may cover multiple products if the Importer/Exporter, Manufacturer, and Country or Territory of Origin remain the same. A separate license will be required if the information differs.

The one exception to the Steel License and Surge Monitoring Program will be "informal" entries. Informal entries are shipments valued at between US$200.00 and US$2,500.00.

For licensing purposes, an informal entry is defined as:

A value not exceeding US$2,500.00 when using a Chapter 72 or 73 HTSUS#

Note: Informal entries included in a formal entry will require a license.

Permit and License

U.S Destinations (includes Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands)

Shipments of controlled goods exporting from Canada, regardless of the value, will require the following:

Permit, certificate, or license

Documents required by other government departments (if applicable)

Note: An Export declaration is not required for non-controlled goods to U.S. destinations.

All Other Destinations (includes goods moving through the U.S. to foreign destinations)

Shipments of controlled goods exporting from Canada, regardless of the value, will require the following:

Permit, certificate, or license

Documents required by other government departments (if applicable)

Form B13A, Export Declaration

Note: An Export Declaration is required for non-controlled goods valued at 2,000 CAD or more.

Ban of Imports

Customs prohibits the direct or indirect importation to the U.S. of any article that is a product of Myanmar.

The ban applies to:

Merchandise intended for commercial and personal use, including gifts or informational materials

Merchandise landed, but not entered for consumption, in the U.S. (for example, Free Trade Zone)

Imports for transshipment or in-transit movements of products of Myanmar intended or destined for a third country or territory

The ban does not apply to:

Merchandise for which the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued an Import License, which may be entered for consumption or in-transit movement through the U.S.

Importations for U.S. or foreign diplomatic and consular officials

Customs Clearance Process

For shipments of repaired goods (this encompasses foreign made goods once imported into the U.S., sent abroad for repair and then returned to the U.S.) the invoice must state:

Country or Territory of Origin

Original cost of the item

Repair cost (the fair market value price of the price of repair)

Duties and taxes will only apply to the repair cost. All other invoice requirements still apply.

General Order

Per U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, as stated in 19CFR127.1, General Order (G.O.) merchandise applies to goods taken into CBP custody and deposited in a general order warehouse. This occurs when, after prescribed time limits expire, goods remain unentered into the commerce of the U.S. After time limits expire, goods may be moved into a general order storage facility under Customs custody.

Critical Time Limits

• 15 calendar days from the date of arrival imported goods are deemed G.O. eligible by CBP. UPS Operations/Carrier will notify CBP on the 15th calendar day after the date of arrival of any shipment that has not been presented for entry. CBP will then make the determination to move the freight to the G.O. warehouse.
• G.O. goods stay in CBP custody in a bonded warehouse for six months from the date of arrival before they are considered unclaimed or abandoned. At that time, CBP may auction the product to recover expenses associated with the G.O.

Withdrawing Goods from a G.O. Warehouse

• Importers have six months from the date of importation to export general order merchandise. Storage and handling fees apply.
• Importers may also enter the goods under a consumption entry or any other type entry. Storage and other fees including applicable fines, taxes, and duties apply.

Penalties
Failure to provide Customs with timely notification of G.O. bound merchandise will result in a fine up to US$1,000.00 per air waybill or bill of lading.

Imports from Iran

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) prohibits the direct or indirect importation into the U.S. any article that is the product of Islamic Republic of Iran.

U.S. persons and companies that currently import food and carpets from Iran should be aware of the guidance issued July 1, 2010, by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) concerning a change in U.S. law made by the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010 ("CISADA").

OFAC's Iranian Transactions Regulations currently contain a general license authorizing the importation into the U.S. of foodstuffs from Iran that are classified under chapters 2-23 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) (such as pistachios and non-beluga caviar (which is prohibited by other aspects of law). In addition, the importation of carpets and other textile floor coverings of Iranian origin that are classified under chapter 57 or heading 9706.00.0060 of the HTS are also authorized.

However, due to the additional Iran sanctions recently passed by Congress, OFAC will soon issue a regulation amending the Iranian Transaction Regulations to eliminate the general license and such imports will be no longer permitted starting on September 29, 2010. OFAC has also indicated that any authorized Iranian products must be imported by September 28, 2010 and it will not issue any specific licenses authorizing any imports after that date. As a result, importers must move quickly to ensure that any pending orders are entered for consumption by their customs brokers by September 28, 2010.

Payment by Credit Card

Credit card payments are accepted upon delivery for freight and import charges by this destination. Contact UPS or the UPS service partner in the destination country or territory to determine which credit cards are accepted.

Restrictions may apply for freight collect shipments from the origin country or territory. Contact UPS or the UPS service partner in the origin country or territory prior to shipping.

Post Office Boxes

UPS cannot deliver to a P.O. Box address. All packages require a consignee's contact name and complete street address including apartment, suite or unit number if applicable. The consignee's telephone number should be provided if known.

Restricted Articles

U.S. Customs & Border Protection enforces laws relating to the protection of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Included in the IPR are trademarks, trade names, copyrights, and patents. Examples of products for import that would qualify under the IPR restrictions are: NFL, NBA, NCAA, MLB jerseys, shirts, caps, memorabilia, or any products with the registered trade name of Coca Cola, Disney, Rolex, Nike, etc. Such products may be refused entry into the U.S. if Customs believes the goods are counterfeit or for resale in the U.S. without approval from the IPR owner. Any article(s) found to infringe upon the registered trademarks; trade names, copyrights or patents will be subject to immediate seizure and forfeiture.

Service is provided to and from every address in the country or territory.

UPS cannot deliver to a P.O. Box address. All packages require a consignee's contact name and complete street address including apartment, suite or unit number if applicable. The consignee's telephone number should be provided if known.

Rest Days:

Saturday, Sunday, and official holidays.

GMT:

Spring -0400/ Fall -0500

Language:

English

Currency:

US Dollar(USD)

Shipping Charges

• Shipping charges can be billed to the shipper, receiver or a third party.
• When billing the receiver, either the shipper or receiver's account number is required.
• When billing to a third party, the third party's name, country or territory and account number are required.

Duties and Taxes

• Duties and taxes can be billed to the shipper, receiver or a third party.
• When billing a third party, the third party's name, country or territory and account number are required.
• If the duties and taxes are billed to an account outside of the destination country or territory, a "Duty and Tax Forwarding" surcharge will be applied.

Third-Party Billing

• Please note the following third party billing exceptions:
  • Shipments to and from the same country or territory (domestic shipments) cannot be billed to third party payors in other countries or territories. For example, shipments from Mexico to Mexico or Canada to Canada cannot be billed to a third party payor in the U.S. This rule does not apply to UPS domestic services in European Union countries or territories. For example, shipments from Germany to Germany can be billed to a third party payor in the U.S. (as long as the payor is a business and has a VAT or Tax/EIN ID on file with UPS).

Payment Methods

• When paying by credit card, check, or cash, only the shipper can be billed the shipping charges

Split Duty And VAT (SDV)

• The freight and duties can be billed to the shipper or a third party
• The taxes can be billed to the receiver or a third party
• A surcharge will be applied for the SDV billing option

There are special stipulations on the following commodities when shipping to United States. If you plan to ship one of the commodities listed below, be sure to adhere to the following stipulations in order to avoid delays and holds at customs.

Agriculture

Lacey Act Amendments

• Passed May 22, 2008 and effective immediately.
• Illegal to import, export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase in interstate or foreign commerce, any plant to be taken or traded in violation of domestic or international laws.
• Expand Lacey protection to include a broader range of plants and plant products, including timber deriving from illegally harvested plants.

Beginning on December 15, 2008, a new import declaration will be required for plants and plant products.

• Declaration must be made at time of importation.
• Declaration must contain:
  • Scientific name of the plant (including genus & species)
  • Value of importation
  • Quantity of the plant
  • Name of the country or territory in which the plant was harvested
• For paper and paperboard products with recycled content, state the average % recycled content without regard for species or country or territory of harvest.

Declaration requirement does not apply to packaging material used to support, protect or carry another item (unless the packaging itself is the item being imported).

USDA and CBP have informally indicated that they may implement a phased enforcement schedule. However, such schedules are only speculative at this time and there has been no official guidance yet from the agencies.

Below are only a few potential examples of affected products:

• any item accompanied by a paper manual or instruction booklet
• furniture, toys
• rayon fabric (made from wood pulp)
• chewing gum (may contain gum arabic)
• picture frames and mirrors
• books and magazines
• any garment with wooden buttons or paper hangtags
• any machine or electronic device with a rubber hose or gasket
• maple syrup

Note: USDA has the right to inspect any transit shipment and additional permits or certifications may be required.

Animals and Animal Products

Cows, goats, sheep, and pigs are considered domesticated animals. All other animals are considered non-domesticated animals. Items or products made from non-domesticated animals are restricted in the UPS system and only allowed with a UPS ISC contract. CITES permit and additional restrictions may apply, please check with your local ISC Coordinator.

The U.S. currently bans the importation of ruminant meat products including those for edible use, other than gelatin, milk, and milk products, from animals such as cows, deer, goats, sheep, and other cloven-hoofed animals because Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE)from regions such as Europe, Oman and Israel. Under certain restrictions these products may enter from Japan and Canada.

Beef, pork, and poultry are also prohibited or restricted entry from other regions as well due to being recognized by USDA has having animal diseases that are exotic to the United States. Examples would be certain beef and milk products from South America because of Foot-and-Mouth disease, poultry products from Asia because of the bird flu H5N1 or pork products from other regions because of swine diseases like Classical Swine Fever.

One may be able to import certain animal products and animal-by-products. These products may require a Veterinary Services Import Permit or other government certification. Prohibited products can include apparel, jewelry, shoes, or belts. Some examples would be jewelry made from seashells, knife handles made of bone, or any article made of ivory.

Contact the USDA Veterinary Services at www.aphis.usda.gov or 1-301-734-3277 for more information on how to import animal and animal by-products into the United States.

Books

For shipments of books, UPS always requires a commercial invoice. The importer is responsible for supplying a commercial invoice upon request from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Book shipments cannot be shipped in an Express envelope. They must be shipped in a UPS PAK or other shipping container.

Please note that from origin country or territory must be key-entered with the description of "Books" along with code 03/01 and must be keyed with correct declared value.

Chemicals

The Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) regulates the manufacturing, processing, distribution in commerce, use, or disposal of any chemical substance or mixture that may present an unreasonable risk of injury to health and the environment as required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Importation of chemical substance in bulk or as part of a mixture or article containing a chemical substance or mixture will not be released by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) unless proper certification of compliance or exemption form requirements is present.

A TSCA Declaration is required at the time of entry on all articles in Chapter 28 and 29 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). Some examples include:

chemical elements such as fluorine, chlorine, iodine, sulfur

inorganic acids,

halogen and sulfur compounds of nonmetals

hydrocarbons

ethers

Also included under TSCA regulations are ammonia, ball point pens, cartridges, and zinc.

Types of Declarations

• Negative Declaration - certification that the shipment is not subject or is exempt from TSCA regulations
• Positive Declaration - certification that the shipment complies with TSCA regulations.

A signed declaration must be received from the importer prior to releasing the shipment. Importers with questions should contact that TSCA Hotline at 1-202-554-1404.

Cigarettes

Shipments of cigarettes to consumers are not accepted due to a growing number of states that have enacted restrictions on tobacco deliveries. These shipments will be returned to the shipper or abandoned. For further restrictions or prohibitions regarding tobacco products, please visit www.ups.com/tobacco

UPS only accepts shipments of cigarettes to recipients who are licensed or otherwise authorized by applicable federal, state, provincial, or local law or regulation to receive deliveries of cigarettes.

Clothing

The following items are required on a commercial invoice for importing clothing into the US:

• Fabric content
• Manufacturer of each article
• Complete address of each Manufacturer
• Knit or Woven
• Gender
• Weight and Dimensions of Fabric

Computers

Notebook and Laptop Computers containing CD/DVD drives as components require clearance from the Food and Drug Administration.

Contact Lenses

All contact lenses regardless of value must clear through FDA.

Cosmetics

Cosmetics, including bath (essential) oils, require FDA clearance.

CD Roms

A CD Rom and other portable storage media shipped commercially containing software, music, video or pictures are subject to duty and require a commercial invoice.

Dental Instruments

Dental devices, including toothbrushes, require FDA clearance.

Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements, vitamins and herbal supplements may be regulated in the destination country or territory. Therefore, U.S. shippers should contact the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to inquire about the various document requirements prior to exporting their products.

The importer in the destination country or territory should verify importing regulations with the appropriate government agency that regulates these commodities. U.S. and international shippers must include the Lot Numbers of the vitamins and dietary and herbal supplements on the export shipping invoice.

NOTE: U.S. origin dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbal supplements containing animal products and/or animal by-products that are being returned to the U.S. are still regulated by USDA/APHIS and FDA. The U.S. exporting invoice must accompany the returning shipment.

Additional information can be found in the Animal Product Manual under Special Procedures Table 2-4-21. The Animal Product Manual is located at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/plants/manuals/ports/downloads/apm_pdf/02_04specproc.pdf

Drugs (also see Medicine)

It is illegal to import medicine without FDA approval. Shipments of medicine without FDA approval will be refused entry and will be returned to the export location or destroyed.

Allow one extra day for inspection by the FDA.

Note: The FDA can decide not to take action against the illegal importation.

U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens may be allowed to import unapproved medicine for personal use if these factors apply:

• The medicine is intended for a serious condition for which treatment may not be available in the U.S.
• The FDA does not consider the product a risk.
• The individual seeking to import the drug affirms in writing that it is for the patient's own use and provides the name and address of the U.S. doctor responsible for treatment.

Non-U.S. Citizens

Non-U.S. citizens may be allowed to import unapproved medicine from their country or territory of birth for personal use if these factors apply:

• The FDA does not consider the product a risk.
• The individual can provide the generic or common name of the medicine, the scientific name of the medicine, the name and address of the manufacturer, and the intended use of the medicine.
• The product is for personal use, not for resale, and is a three-month supply or less.
• The individual can provide Customs with proof of foreign citizenship at time of entry.

Commercial Shipments

Commercial shipments of medicine pre-approved by the FDA require the following on the invoice:

• Generic or common name of product Scientific name of product
• Name and address of manufacturer
• Intended use of product

Commercial shipments of medicine not pre-approved by the FDA require the following on the invoice:

• Generic or common name of product
• Scientific name of product
• Name and address of manufacturer
• Investigations New Drug Number or New Drug Application Number

Electrical Items

Compact-disc players and microwave ovens require FDA clearance.

Eye Wear

Eyeglass lenses and frames must comply with FDA requirements.

Eyeglass frames with demonstration lenses must be registered with the FDA.

Prescription lenses require a separate medical device listing number.

Further information pertaining to the registration of products or establishments regulated by the FDA can be located at http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/reglistpage.html.

Prescription lenses for "demonstration use only" require one of the following:

A drop ball test certificate from the shipper or manufacturer

A statement showing the lenses have been de-characterized (cannot be sold)

The words "demo lenses" stamped across the lenses

Fish and Wildlife

On April 18, 2005 UPS Customs Brokerage redrafted its policy on Fish and Wildlife commodities entering the United States. With its designation of Louisville, Kentucky as a Fish and Wildlife port, UPS has decided to offer Fish and Wildlife clearance through the UPS Small Package system.

Fish and Wildlife clearance encompasses all wildlife, whether animal or animal byproduct.

In order to clear through this government agency, the customer must state the exact item description (including the genus and species of the animal) on the invoice. The country or territory of origin must be properly marked and have listed a fair market cost of the goods.

A Fish and Wildlife Declaration (Form 3177) must be completed either by the customer or broker. The customer will also need to apply for a CITES or BFAR Permit (if applicable).

The package must be marked with the names and address of the consignee and shipper. It must also contain a list of the wildlife with its scientific name. Packages MUST be marked as containing Fish and Wildlife regulated commodities. If the packages are not properly marked, The Fish and Wildlife Service could assess a fine of up to US$350.00.

Please access the following link to view charges incurred for Fish and Wildlife clearance:

http://www.fws.gov/le/pdffiles/InspectionFeeIncreases-ProposedFeeSchedule.pdf

UPS Special Handling charge: US$25.00 per shipment.

Please be aware, the Fish and Wildlife Service prohibits the importation of certain animals and animal products. This list includes but is not limited to: Sea turtles, Ivory, Furs (wild cats, seals, sea otter, etc.), Birds, Primates, Reptiles and reptilian leathers. Each of these items has its own exceptions, please visit www.fws.gov for more information. Tuesday, May 28, 2013 The Fish and Wildlife Service announced May 22 that until further notice it will prohibit the following with respect to trade in protected species of wild animals and plants. - Commercial import or introduction from the sea from, and the commercial export or reexport to, Guinea of specimens listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora - All imports and introduction from the sea from, and all exports or reexports to, Afghanistan, Djibouti and Lesotho of CITES-listed specimens The FWS states that all such prohibited shipments or specimens are subject to refusal of import/export or seizure and forfeiture. These prohibitions are being imposed because the countries or territories listed have failed to implement the required CITES legislation or file the required annual reports on their implementation of CITES. The U.S. therefore cannot establish the legal origin of wildlife that is exported or reexported from these countries or territories and also cannot allow trade to these countries or territories since the necessary enforcement provisions are not in place to ensure the CITES treaty is being implemented.

Food

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made some changes to its regulations on the submission of prior notice for imported food. Changes to the prior notice regulations:

• Removes the requirement that the identity of the anticipated border crossing within the port of arrival be provided in the prior notice
• Removes the requirement to provide the 6 digit Harmonized Tariff Schedule number in the prior notice
• Requires the registration number of the manufacturer (or the full address of the manufacturer and a reason) in all circumstances
• The final rule will require the PN (prior notice) to include the name and full address of the shipper, if the shipper is different from the manufacturer (in order to eliminate duplicative requirements)

Identity of the manufacturer, for food no longer in its natural state (for commercial shipments):

• The final rule will revise the PN information requirements in 21 CFR 1.281(a)(6) for an article of food that is no longer in its natural state, to require the name of the manufacturer and either:
  • The registration number, city and country or territory of the manufacturer or
  • Both the full address of the manufacturer and the reason the registration number is not provided

Identity of manufacturer if such food sent as a personal gift:

• The final rule will revise the PN information requirements for an article of food that is no longer in its natural state to remove the current option that allows the name and address that appears on the label under 21 CFR 101.5 to be submitted instead of the name, address, and registration number of the manufacturer for food sent by an individual as a personal gift (i.e., for non-business reasons) to an individual in the U.S. Prior Notice is not required for home-made non-commercial food shipments shipped by an individual, to an individual, as gifts for personal use. Furthermore, current FDA policy is not to require Prior Notice when food purchased at a commercial establishment is exported or offered for export by a non-commercial shipper for a non-commercial purpose (i.e., from an individual, to an individual, as a gift or as a household good for personal use). Additional exclusion criteria can be found at the FDA web site.

Requirements to Submit Prior Notice of Imported Food:

• Submitter and transmitter
• Deadlines for Prior Notice Submitting
• Prior Notice General Information Requirements
• Registration Numbers
• Grower Identity
• Product Identity
• Changes to Prior Notice Submissions
• Changes to Shipments
• PNSI and ACS/ABI Features Confirmation

Gift Cards

Plastic Gift Cards 4911.99.8000 per Customs Ruling W968266

Hazardous Materials

UPS provides International Dangerous Goods service for shipments between the U.S. and certain countries or territories by contract only.

Accessorial charges of US$40.00 apply as follows:

Hazardous Materials Class 9 (HAZ)

Hazardous Materials All Other Classes (HAN)

Helical Spring Lock Washers

Anti-dumping duties apply to helical spring lock washers manufactured in China and Taiwan.

Infrared Products

These items require FDA clearance.

Integrated Circuits

On October 1, 2008, the Department of Commerce published in the Federal Register notice of revocation of the countervailing duty order (C-580-851) on DRAMS from Korea.

The order covered DRAMS from Korea, whether assembled or unassembled, and memory modules containing DRAMS made in Korea. Only those modules that contained additional items that altered the function of the module to something other than memory (e.g. video graphics adapter boards), or were returned in products for repair and destruction were excluded from the scope.

The effective date of revocation is August 11, 2008. Imports of DRAM products entered on or after this date will no longer be required to be accompanied by the following DRAM Certifications:

• DRAM Integrated Circuit/Module Certification
• DRAM/Memory Module Reimportation Certification
• KR DRAM Memory Module Destruction Certification
• DRAM Countervailing Duty Certification for Republic of Korea (ROK)-South Korea Integrated Circuits (19 CFR 353.26).

KRATOM/MILTRAGYNA SPOCIOSA

FDA

Laser Products

These items require FDA clearance.

Meat

Due to the possibility of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE or Mad Cow Disease), the U.S. currently bans the importation of all edible products (excluding gelatin, milk and milk products) of all cloven-hoofed animals. For more information, please contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plan Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Veterinary Medical office at 1-301-734-7633 or visit http://www.aphis.usda.gov

Medical Items

Surgical and hospital instruments for humans or animals require FDA clearance.

Medicine (also see Drugs)

It is illegal to import medicine without FDA approval. Shipments of medicine without FDA approval will be refused entry and will be returned to the export location or destroyed.

Allow one extra day for inspection by the FDA.

Note: The FDA can decide not to take action against the illegal importation.

U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens may be allowed to import unapproved medicine for personal use if these factors apply:

The medicine is intended for a serious condition for which treatment may not be available in the U.S.

The FDA does not consider the product a risk.

The individual seeking to import the drug affirms in writing that it is for the patient's own use and provides the name and address of the U.S. doctor responsible for treatment.

Non-U.S. Citizens

Non-U.S. citizens may be allowed to import unapproved medicine from their country or territory of birth for personal use if these factors apply:

The FDA does not consider the product a risk.

The individual can provide the generic or common name of the medicine, the scientific name of the medicine, the name and address of the manufacturer, and the intended use of the medicine.

The product is for personal use, not for resale, and is a three-month supply or less.

The individual can provide Customs with proof of foreign citizenship at time of entry.

Commercial Shipments

Commercial shipments of medicine pre-approved by the FDA require the following on the invoice:

Generic or common name of product

Scientific name of product

Name and address of manufacturer

Intended use of product

Commercial shipments of medicine not pre-approved by the FDA require the following on the invoice:

Generic or common name of product

Scientific name of product

Name and address of manufacturer

Investigations New Drug Number or New Drug Application Number

Nutritional Supplements

Shipments of nutritional supplements or vitamins must contain the following information on the invoice:

Clearly write the type of supplement or vitamin.

Describe the purpose of the supplement or vitamin.

State the recommended dosage.

The following may also be required:

A copy of the prescription if the product is prescribed

A copy of the individual's passport if the consignee is not a U.S. citizen

Nutritional supplements that contain animal products or animal by-products may require a Veterinary Services Import Permit. Contact the USDA Veterinary Services at www.aphis.usda.gov or 1-301-304-3277.

Paper Clips

Anti-dumping duties apply to paper clips manufactured in China.

Pencils

Anti-dumping duties apply to pencils manufactured in China.

Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals, including reagents, peptides, and serums, require FDA clearance.

Plants

Living plant material requirements depend on the product, country or territory of origin, and may require a permit, license or Phytosanitary Certificate. For more information, please visit www.usda.gov or www.aphis.usda.gov

Phytosanitary Certificate:

• APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) requires a phytosanitary certificate in order to import certain plant products
• A phytosanitary (plant health) certificate is an official document issued by an exporting country or territory, which certifies that the phytosanitary status of a shipment meets the phytosanitary regulations of the importing country or territory
• The intended purpose of a phytosanitary certificate is to expedite the entry of plants or plant products into the United States while protecting American agriculture. In addition, the phytosanitary certificate indicates that the shipment is free of pests and diseases that do not exist in the United States
• A phytosanitary certificate may be obtained at the national plant protection organization of the exporting country or territory. Source: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/publications/plant_health/content/printable_version/faq_phphto.pdf

Radio Frequency Devices

Anything that is electronic, battery-operated, or capable of sending, receiving, or interfering with radio signals may be considered a radio-frequency device. Examples of such devices include radio and TV receivers, converters, transmitters, transmitting devices, radio frequency amplifiers, microwave ovens, industrial heaters, ultrasonic transceivers, and computers.

Prior to July 1, 2016, importers were required to file FCC Form 740, Section 2.1203 General Requirement for Entry, and Section 2.1205 Filing of Required Declaration, along with their customs entry documentation.

As of July 1, 2016, the preceding requirement has been temporarily suspended, (see FCC-15-135A1). A proposal is being considered to permanently discontinue the requirement to file an FCC Form 740. (see (FCC 15-92).The suspension of FCC Form 740 only eliminates the requirement to file the form.

Importation of radio frequency equipment still requires that the product:
(1) Has the required FCC equipment authorization;
(2) Is only being imported for evaluation;
(3) Is only being imported for demonstration at a trade show; or
(4) Meets one of the conditions as permitted in Section 2.1204 (see Question 3 of the Equipment Authorization Importation website).

For more information, see the Equipment Authorization - Importation

Shipment value amount:

100.00 US Dollar USD

Shipment type:

company-to-individual

Exemption rule:

per person

Shipment value amount:

100.00 US Dollar USD

Shipment type:

individual-to-individual

Exemption rule:

per person

Invoice

Non-document shipments to the U.S. must include one original and two copies of an invoice.

Shipments of documents do not require an invoice.

Write or type the invoice in English to expedite Customs clearance.

Include the following information on the invoice:

Shipper's name, contact name, address, and telephone number

Consignee's name, contact name, address, and telephone number

Federal Tax Identification Number (EIN) for a company.

Complete description of goods

Intended use of commodity

Country or Territory of origin for all commodities

Unit values (if the item was sent for repairs, list the original value plus the cost of the repair)

Extended values

Currency in U.S. dollars

Terms of sale

Weight of shipment

Any commodity-specific information

Note: For products classified under Chapter 72 or headings 7301 to 7307 in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), a statement of the percentages by weight or carbon, and any metallic elements contained in the articles, must be presented in the form of a Mill Analysis or Mill Test Certificate.

Express Shipments
An invoice is required for Express shipments meeting the following stipulations:

• any shipment valued over US$2,000.00
• any shipment which contains textiles, bearings, shoes and integrated circuit products valued over US$5.00
• any shipment containing finished tobacco products

Paperless Invoice - Exports

UPS Paperless Invoice is available for small package exports from this country or territory.

Paperless Invoice - Imports

UPS Paperless Invoice is accepted by Customs for small package imports into this country or territory.

The destination country or territory considers the following items document shipments. If criteria are listed, the shipment must meet the criteria to be considered a document shipment.

Airline Tickets

Airline tickets not for resale.

Annual Reports

Bids

Blueprints

Cash Letters

Charts

Intercompany only

Checks

Only blank checks not for resale, company-to-company checks, or payroll/personal checks

Computer Print-Outs

Documents

Documents shipped in letter envelopes, Paks, or boxes do not require an invoice for Customs.

Mark an "X" in the Documents Only box on the waybill.

Drawings

Drivers License

Examination Papers

Graphs

Intercompany Mail

Microfilm, Microfiche

Must contain company information only

Mylars

Intercompany only

Negatives

Intercompany only

Newsletters (Company)

Passports

Passports will require proof of immigration and/or birth certificate.

Price Lists

Proposals

Seismic Data

Sepia Drawings

Slides

Must contain company information only

Specifications Sheets

Transparencies

Must contain company information only

Traveler's Checks

USB Sticks

USB Sticks / SD Cards being imported with intercompany data can be entered in as an intangible entry. Intangible is a U.S. shipment entry type that will allow the shipments to release at the border regardless of value if the following items are identified as intercompany data: Records, diagrams and other data with regard to any business, engineering or exploration operation whether on paper, cards, photographs, blueprints, tapes or other media

Visa Applications

UPS can recommend which forms you need based on a few simple criteria. Forms can be completed online or printed. See which forms you need.

In addition to the prohibited commodities listed here, it is prohibited to ship the following commodities to The United States.

Agricultural Materials

Because burlap or jute bagging may harbor the Khapra Beetle, such articles are regulated when arriving from countries or territories where this pest is endemic.

If the burlap or jute is arriving from, transited, or originated in:

Afghanistan

Algeria

Bangladesh

Burkina Faso

Cyprus

Egypt

India

Iran

Iraq

Israel

Libya

Mali

Mauritania

Morocco

Myanmar

Niger

Nigeria

Pakistan

Saudi Arabia

Senegal

Sri Lanka

Sudan

Syria

Tunisia

Turkey

then the shipment will require a WRITTEN PERMIT and T306-c-1 or T306-c-2 (as per 7 CFR 319.75).

Alcoholic Beverages

Unaccompanied Personal Wine Imports

• For all commercial (non-personal) US inbound shipments containing alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, and hard spirits), the importer must be licensed by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). In addition, a Certificate of Label Approval (COLA) and other potential certificates may be required depending on the type of alcohol being imported. Please review the guidelines provided by TTB for additional details. TTB
• UPS does not accept packages containing beer or spirits for delivery to a consumer.
• UPS does allow personal wine purchased onsite while traveling abroad. Certain restrictions apply: Small Package Personal Wine Shipments
• It is the responsibility of the Shipper to ensure that a Package tendered to UPS does not violate any federal, state, or local laws or regulations applicable to the shipment.

Batteries

In all cases, batteries must be shipped with positive short-circuit protection, such as insulating caps on the terminals.

Lead-acid batteries

• UPS Small Package service does not handle spillable lead-acid batteries. The only lead-acid batteries handled within the UPS Small Package service are the non-spillable variety:
  • Regulated non-spillable batteries, which must be shipped as dangerous goods, "Batteries wet, non-spillable, 8, UN2800." In our small package service, we accept these batteries only from contract dangerous goods customers and only within our International Dangerous Goods service. The territory for IDG service includes the countries or territories shown at this link: http://www.ups.com/content/us/en/resources/prepare/idg/information/acl.html
  • Exempt non-spillable batteries, which must be capable of complying with Special Provision A67 in the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. The Special Provision states that non-spillable batteries are not regulated at all IF they meet the following conditions:
    • At a temperature of 55 degrees C (131 degrees F), the electrolyte will not flow from a ruptured case.
    • The battery must not contain any free or unabsorbed liquid.
    • The terminals must be protected against short circuit or, if installed in a device, the device must not be capable of accidental activation.

Lithium and lithium ion batteries

• Both rechargeable & non-rechargeable power sources, common in computers, cell phones, cameras & other small electronic devices. If dropped, crushed or short-circuited, these batteries can release dangerous amounts of heat & may ignite, & are dangerous in fires.
• Special regulations apply to shipping these batteries.Shipments requiring hazardous materials shipping papers are accepted from contract hazmat shippers only & certain lithium batteries may not qualify for UPS service.

Dry cell batteries

• These batteries are not subject to the Dangerous Goods Regulations, provided they are positively protected against short circuit, such as being contained in a retail blister pack to prevent contact with the terminals, or singly packaging each battery in a small plastic bag, or taping the terminals, etc.

Beer

Personal shipments of wine, beer and alcohol are strictly prohibited within the UPS system.

Electronic Cigarette

Electronic cigarettes and the flavor for the electronic cigarettes can only be shipped with an International Special Commodities (ISC) contract.

Please refer to the US FDA website for additional information on E-Cigarettes and Products- http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/PublicHealthFocus/ucm172906.htm

High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lights

Certain HID conversion kits of vehicle headlights and taillights are prohibited from importation into the U.S.

If the headlamps are capable of being installed and used in motor vehicles subject to the Federal Motor Vehicle Standards (i.e., "conventional 'on-road' or 'off-road' vehicles), they must comply with Standard No.108 in order to be imported. More information regarding the requirements described in Standard No.108 can be found in the Federal Regulation 49CFR571.108.

Also, more information can be found on the website for the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration at http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/

High Powered Lasers

(1,000 milli watts or greater) Imported laser pointes may not emit a Class lll b or class IV visible beam. Pointers are limited to Class llla or below (class lla, ll, or l ). The upper power limit for Class lll a is 5 millliwatts (mW), the legal limit (21 CFR 1040.11(b)

Kinder Chocolate Eggs

Kinder Chocolate Eggs are banned for sale and import into the United States. The toy hidden in the Kinder Egg poses a choking and aspiration hazard in children under the age of three. The Kinder Eggs are hollow milk chocolate eggs about the size of a large hen's egg packaged in a colorful foil paper. The toy within the egg is contained in an oval-shaped plastic capsule. The toy requires assembly and each egg contains a different toy.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission determined that the product failed to meet small parts requirements with respect to children less than three years of age.

Lottery Tickets

United States Customs & Border Protection prohibits the importation of any lottery ticket and has the right to destroy material, including printed material, for use in a lottery.

Negotiable Bonds, Drafts

You may not import negotiable bonds or drafts.

Personal Effects

Customers must use an authorized UPS Store, UPS Customer Center or an ISC approved shipper to ship personal effects. The UPS Store,UPS Customer Center and ISC approved shipper will be required to identify personal effect shipments on the shipping label by placing "ISC-Personal Effects" in the Reference Field of a UPS "smart" label or in the Special Instructions Field of a UPS waybill. They must also clearly indicate 'Personal Effects' shipment on the Commercial Invoice.

Personal Effects are classified as used items (owned for a minimum of 6 months) intended for the consignee's personal use. Any items intended for any other use, such as wholesale or retail sales, business purposes, or for distribution are not considered personal effects and cannot be shipped on this basis. "Personal Effects" must be clearly stated on the invoice and goods description. Note: Personal effects include Items that an individual has owned prior to a foreign travel/trip.

The description on the invoice should include the purchase date (month/year). For properly declared personal effects, no duties or taxes will be assessed by the U.S. government, but a Brokerage surcharge may apply.

Personal effects shipments may experience a delay for additional Customs processing.

Prohibited articles listed in the UPS service guide cannot be accepted as personal effects.

To import personal effects, including unaccompanied baggage, the shipper will need to complete a Customs Form 3299. This form can be obtained at www.cbp.gov. In addition to the Customs Form 3299, certain additional information and documentation may be required to accompany the shipment depending on the importing scenario:

• Entering the US for Vacation: Photocopy of Passport or Birth Certificate with document identification numbers annotated on the CF3299.
• Working temporarily in the US: A work VISA number annotated on the CF3299 along with a photocopy of the VISA and stamped I-94 Arrival Form.
• Studying in the US: A student VISA number annotated on the CF3299 along with a photocopy of the VISA and stamped I-94 Arrival Form.
• Immigrating to the US: Photocopy of the Green Card, Alien Card, stamped I-94 and the current passport number must be provided.
• US Citizen Returning: Passport number, VISA, or Birth Certificate must be provided along with a photocopy of the document. All IDs must be issued by the US Government.

Personal Effects items normally should not be shipped to the US prior to admittance of the sender. Shipments received before the sender enters the country or territory may be denied entry by Customs and returned by UPS.

Personal effects shipments are not allowed in combination with Return Services.

Products Made in Iran

Imports from Iran Customs and Border Protection (CBP) prohibits the direct or indirect importation into the U.S. any article that is the product of Islamic Republic of Iran.

U.S. persons and companies that currently import food and carpets from Iran should be aware of the guidance issued July 1, 2010, by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) concerning a change in U.S. law made by the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010 ("CISADA"). OFAC's Iranian Transactions Regulations currently contain a general license authorizing the importation into the U.S. of foodstuffs from Iran that are classified under chapters 2-23 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) (such as pistachios and non-beluga caviar (which is prohibited by other aspects of law).

In addition, the importation of carpets and other textile floor coverings of Iranian origin that are classified under chapter 57 or heading 9706.00.0060 of the HTS are also authorized.

However, due to the additional Iran sanctions recently passed by Congress, OFAC will soon issue a regulation amending the Iranian Transaction Regulations to eliminate the general license and such imports will be no longer permitted starting on September 29, 2010. OFAC has also indicated that any authorized Iranian products must be imported by September 28, 2010 and it will not issue any specific licenses authorizing any imports after that date. As a result, importers must move quickly to ensure that any pending orders are entered for consumption by their customs brokers by September 28, 2010.

Seeds

Shipments of seeds may require a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Permit or Phytosanitary Certificate. Inspection by the USDA is required.

Swords

Note: It is the shippers responsibility to comply with government regulations or laws in each country or territory. Shipments are subject to inspection and possible delays.

If a customer would like to import a sword for recreational use or as a collector, they must be approved by the International Special Commodities (ISC) prior to shipping the sword.

Saturday Delivery Available: Yes

Not available in all areas. Always check the international time in transit system for details of service availability within a country or territory.

UPS offers Saturday delivery to selected postal codes in the United States. The package must be shipped Express and the shipper at the origin country or territory must place a "Saturday Delivery" sticker on the package.

In order to upgrade an Express shipment to Saturday Delivery the following criteria must be met:

• The shipment has not been released from Customs
• The shipment must import Friday night
• Saturday Delivery must be available to the destination postal code

Always check Calculate Time and Cost for details of service availability and guarantee information within a country or territory. All Service Levels may not be available to or from every address within a country or territory.

Canada to United States

• UPS Standard

• UPS Worldwide Expedited

• UPS Worldwide Express

• UPS Worldwide Express Plus

• UPS Worldwide Express Saver

• UPS WorldWide Express Freight

Repaired Goods

For shipments of repaired goods (this encompasses foreign made goods once imported into the U.S., sent abroad for repair and then returned to the U.S.) the invoice must state:

Country or Territory of Origin

Original cost of the item

Repair cost (the fair market value price of the price of repair)

Duties and taxes will only apply to the repair cost. All other invoice requirements still apply.

Returned Goods

US Goods are defined in 19 CFR 10.12(e) http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/19cfrv1_03.html

There are very specific conditions that must be met in order to use the 9801 tariff numbers. To be eligible to receive duty free treatment the shippers invoice must clearly identify the goods, and must meet the following specifications:

Articles are the growth, product or manufacture of the United States

Products of the United States when returned after having been exported without having been advanced in value or improved in condition by other means while abroad

No drawback has been or will be claimed on such articles

General invoice requirements are available in 19 CFR 141.86 & 142.6 at http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/19cfrv2_03.html

An RMA number on the invoice is not sufficient to identify goods as US origin goods.

Articles such as Toshiba Laptops and Hitachi Digital Cameras, while they may have been purchased from a company in the US, would likely not qualify for classification in 9801.00.10xx if they are returned.

Additional invoice information that may be required based on tariff classification in chapter 9801:

Reason goods were exported, e.g. with intent to re-import after temporary use abroad

Reason for return, e.g. for repair, alteration, processing or the like and re-exportation; for credit, not to specifications

Have the goods been advanced in value or improved in condition by other means while abroad

Who goods are being returned to, e.g. original manufacture, original exporter

Were the goods sold for exportation and exported to individuals for personal use

Date goods were originally imported (if applicable) and exported

Solid Wood Packing Material

New requirements have been implemented for both small package and WWEF shipments and are based on the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM) 15, which is entitled "Guidelines for Regulating Wood Packaging Material in International Trade". ISPM 15 was adopted internationally in 2002, and is gradually being introduced by countries or territories worldwide. Wood or wood products covered by ISPM 15 include items such as packing cases, boxes, crates, drums or similar packing, pallets, box pallets and other load boards, pallet collars and skids, but exclude such processed woods as orientated strand board, particle board, plywood or veneer, created using glue, heat and pressure or a combinations thereof, and, raw wood which is 6mm or less thick. It is recommended that if a question arises on this issue, please check with the authority that issues the Phytosanitary certificates in your country or territory.

Import value limits to United States

Deminimis Value

Private Shipments

When the value of the shipment is equal to or less than the De minimis value ($800 US Dollar), the shipment may enter the country or territory duty and tax free, with the exception of shipments containing certain PGA regulated commodities, those subject to anti-dumping/countervailing, and Tariff Rate Quota.

When the value of the shipment is equal to or less than the De minimis value ($800 US Dollar), the shipment may enter the country or territory duty and tax free, with the exception of shipments containing certain PGA regulated commodities, those subject to anti-dumping/countervailing, and Tariff Rate Quota.

Maximum weight:

70 kg (150 lbs.) per package

Maximum length:

274.00 cm (107.9 in.)  per package

Maximum dimensions:

419 cm (165 in. ) per package

Length and girth combined

Convert metric quantity for weight, length, and area.