How to Import Products into the United States
A step-by-step guide for small businesses researching suppliers, shipping, customs, tariffs, documentation, compliance, and landed cost.
Importing is not one transaction. It is a chain of decisions: product compliance, supplier verification, commercial terms, transportation, classification, customs entry, fees, and final delivery. Dragon is designed to help you research each decision without hiding the official source.
Work through it in this order
Each step is a research checkpoint. The exact requirements depend on your product, countries, business structure, and transaction.
Choose the product
Write down the product, material, use, quantity, and expected value.
Check regulation
Identify whether FDA, USDA, CPSC, EPA, FCC or another agency regulates it.
Find suppliers
Use established manufacturer directories and independent verification.
Request samples
Confirm specifications, packaging, quality, and labeling before a large order.
Confirm the commercial terms
Document price, quantity, specifications, payment terms, and Incoterms.
Classify the product
Research the HS/HTS classification and applicable duty treatment.
Plan freight
Compare parcel, air, LCL, or FCL based on size, urgency, and cost.
Prepare entry documents
Commercial invoice, packing list, transport documents, and product-specific records may be needed.
Clear customs
Work with a broker when appropriate and resolve duties/fees before release.
Calculate true landed cost
Include product, freight, insurance, duty, customs fees, handling, broker, and domestic delivery.
Questions to answer before spending money
- Is the product regulated by an agency besides CBP?
- What is the correct HTS classification?
- Who is the importer of record?
- Which Incoterm is on the supplier quote?
- What are the shipping and customs-broker costs?
- What is the cost per unit after all landed costs?
Common questions
Do I need a general U.S. import license?
CBP does not issue one universal license for all imports, but specific products can require permits, approvals, registrations, or licenses from other federal or state agencies.
Who determines the tariff classification?
The importer is responsible for reasonable care in classification. The USITC HTS and CBP rulings are key research sources; complex classifications may require a customs professional or binding ruling.
Should I use a customs broker?
Many small importers use a licensed broker because customs entry, classification, bonds, and agency requirements can become complex. The legal responsibility for the entry does not simply disappear because a broker is used.
Next practical step
Use the tools and directories that match the part of the process you are working on now.