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First time importers often wonder if they need an import license in order to start importing into the U.S. Fortunately, the answer is that in most cases, you do not need an import license.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) does not require that an importer obtain an import permit or license in order to enter goods into the U.S.; however, other Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) do.
We’ll break down some common commodities below, including the agencies that oversee said products.
Notably, petroleum and petroleum products no longer require an import license; however, authorization is required from the DOE and may still be subject to an oil-import license fee.
While the list above is not exhaustive, it should give you a good idea of the types of commodities that require an import license.
If you plan on importing any of these goods, ensure that you speak with the regulatory agency overseeing your product, or consult with a Licensed Customs Broker. Failure to comply with import licensing requirements can result in seizure or forfeiture of your shipment.
Need an import license? Check out our guide on how to get one.
An import license is a document issued by a U.S. government agency, allowing the entry of a specific commodity into the U.S. An import license may be required due to health and safety reasons, for government oversight, or to protect market conditions.
Additionally, the World Trade Organization’s Committee on Import Licensing creates guidelines that say that import rules should be easy to follow, clear and predictable. WTO members are required to follow trade rules and guidelines in order to protect the global market and keep importers safe.
A Licensed Customs Broker can help you navigate the laws and regulations involved in any import into the U.S. Commodities that require some form of import license tend to be items that will attract the most scrutiny from CBP officials. Consulting with a customs broker prior to your shipment is the best way to ensure compliance.
You can learn more about working with a Licensed Customs Broker from the experts at USA Customs Clearance. Get the help you need and call us at (855) 912-0406 or by scheduling a personalized, 1-on-1 consultation. A customs specialist can help you start the import process today!
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Hello, do I need to have a license to import Kava to USA ?
How can I get a import license or permit for Kava from Tonga Island to USA for my business.
Thank you
Hello, I am planning to start jewelry business and I am thinking to import stuff from India, the value of jewelry will be less that $2500, do i need to import license in USA? and how many times or the amount i am allowed to import from India without needing the import license.
Hi Shaivy, did you get any information regarding the import license?
Can you please share any details?
Thank you!
Our company is planning to import cement from Algeria to USA for distribution. Could you please advise us what are the rules that need to be followed for the proper clearance. As we understand the importer must provide at loading all authorizations and laboratory test and all documents needed to have import pre-approval from the USA. Can we get the list of what is needed according to US custom clearance?
We are a small business that would like to import cabinet and bath hardware from factories in China and Vietnam for resale in the US (consumer goods). Do we need an import license? If so, where do we submit the application?
I am trying to import Kava into California. What licenses would I need?
Hello what documents we need for import license or we need permanent US documents or we start with social security number
I wanna some products from Cambodia and India
I’m researching how to import refrigerant from China. In addition to the Customs Bond what other clearances would I need?
Hello, I want to import computer accessories like USB drives, SD cards, USB cables to USA from India to start online business. Could you help me know process and any license requirements. Second question is do I need to find my own supplier or there is list of exporters with competitive pricing
HI I want to import Pinatasfrom Mexico whatI need to export?
Hi I want to export powdered kava from Fiji. What paper works do I need to do. Thanks.
Dear Sir/Madam,
Hope you are doing well.
We want to import to USA from Georgio, whic documents, certificates do we need? (for example: CO, Invoice, packaging list etc.)
Looking forward to your quick reply.
Best Regards,
Enesh Arazklycheva.
I am Trying to do the same. Did you ever find out?
I am US citizen, my wife is a Philippine citizen, and we are researching how to import bamboo furniture, rattan, and other hand made or carved wood products to the US from the local crafts makers in our province in the Philippines.
I am looking to import from Australia to Florida in the United States. The products are non flammable, non toxic and do not require any special handling. The product is used to prevent fires.
Note: No compressed gas or dangerous elements.
Please get back to me.
Thank you
I am interested in starting an online selling business of woven felt and other home decor items imported from India. Can you please guide me about the requirements to be an importer for the same?
Hello, I plan to import new tires from Thailand to the U.S. I am sure that I will need the bond since it will exceed 2,500. Will I also need the import license or anything else. I will gladly appreciate your advise. Thank you for your time.
Hello. I have plans to import men's clothes from India and Pakistan. Currently I have LLC certificate from State of Texas but do I need importer license? Or any permit? Thank you for your help.
Hi I'm in a similar boat did anyone respond as yet? To your question about importing from India pakistan
I need your help. I want to import Car wash detergents from Japan to the USA to use at a car wash and for resale here in California. What steps do I need to take? Do I need a license? Please let me know.
How can I know the value of customs and taxes for importing
( Coconut Charcoal ) into USA and do I need license?
We would like to import coconut water to Texas. Please help advise the procedure. Many thanks.
Hi-
We are planning on importing packaged food products from Pakistan to USA. We have setup a company and are finalizing the products list. Would we need Import Licenses? Could you please help explain what setup besides Customs Bonds would we need? Also, if we want to hire a Licensed Customs Agent for the company, could you help point us to the right direction?
Best-
Syed.
I purchased two chairs for my business from China through Alibaba - total value with shipping cost is under $1,000. Now that they are ready to be shipped the seller is telling me I need to apply for ISF. Is that correct? Is applying for ISF my responsibility?
Hi Yana,
Filing the ISF can be the responsibility of the shipper or the receiver. This depends on the Incoterms used for the shipment. Our import experts can review your shipment details to determine what your responsibilities are. One of our team members will reach out to you shortly to provide further assistance.
How can I export used tires to India from the US?
Hi George,
In addition to adhering to standard import requirements, your used tires will also need to comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) import requirements. These regulations can be complex and we strongly suggest consulting with a Licensed Customs Broker prior to making your arrangements to import tires into the U.S.
You can setup a consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers at the link below:
Customs Broker Consulting
I want to import plain silver jewelry / gemstone studded silver jewelry from china and India. The total value will be less than $2500. Do I need an import licence ?
Hi Habiba,
You won't need an import license to bring jewelry into the U.S. However, if the jewelrey is being imported for commercial use, you will need a customs bond. You can purchase a continuous customs bond at the link below:
Continuous Customs Bond
Hi, I’d like to import tiles & granites from India to Florida. Am I supposed to have an import license?
Hi Jithesh,
You won't need a special import license to bring these into the U.S. However, if these are being imported for commercial purposes and the value is over $2,500, you'll need to purchase a customs bond. You can use the link below to purchase a continuous customs bond from us for only $245. We look forward to helping you!
Continuous Customs Bond
Hi,
Do I need to provide import permit to release my preowned luxury bags bought from Philippines. Thanks
Hi Bernard,
We need to obtain some additional information from you to best respond to your question. One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly!
Hi, I’d like to import candle jars to Los Angeles from China, will I need an import license?
Hi Cathy,
You won't need a special import licensed. However, if the value of your shipment is $2,500 or more, you'll need to secure your shipment with a customs bond. You can purchase a continuous customs bond on our site for just $245 at the link below.
Continuous Customs Bond
do i need a permit to import furniture?
Hi Daniel,
The specific type of furniture that you're importing will determine the exact requirements.s For example, wood furniture will require you to obtain an import license, while metal furniture most likely will not. To best advise you, we suggest consulting with our Licensed Customs Brokers. They're available to speak 1-on-1 with you about your specific importing situation and guide you on exactly what will be needed. You purchase and sign up for a consulting session at the link below.
Customs Consulting Services
I have registered LLC in USA so I wanted to know regarding import of pesticides from India to USA.
Do i need an import license for this?
Hi Hardil,
A specific import license isn't required in your situation. However, a number of additional requirements do apply. We advise consulting with a Licensed Customs Broker to ensure your import satisfies the requirements set forth by CBP and EPA. You can use the link below to sign up for a 1-on-1 consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers. They'll provide you with everything you need to legally import your pesticides.
Customs Broker Consulting Session
I am trying to start a business importing vehicles from Japan, do I need an import license to import a vehicle from Japan.
Hi Sean,
You won't need an import license. However, since vehicles are regulated by the EPA and DOT, you will need a customs bond. We also advise consulting with a Customs Broker before you complete your first import since vehciles are so heavilyt regulated. You can sign up for a consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers at the link below.
Licensed Customs Broker Consulting
Hi, I am planning to ship some investigational drug for human clinical trial to US, the FDA proceed letter is available, May I check if the import license needed? thanks
Hi Alice,
One of our customs experts will be reaching out to you shortly. We look forward to helping you!
So I'm trying to import some basketball cards from Germany and the amount doesn't exceed 2,500$ do I need to get a importation license for the USA to release the shipment?
Hi Cameron,
You more than likely won't need an import license since this type of good isn't regulated by any government agency. However, you'll still need to provide standard import documentation (commercial invoice, entry summary, etc.). Our Licensed Customs Brokers can assist you with all of this. One of our team members will reach out to you shortly to provude further assistance.
I am looking to import gauzes, cotton balls, table paper, drape sheets from India for our company in GA for reselling. Do I need Import license for it.
Hi Priya,
One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to assist you. We look forward to helping you!
Do I need to get USA import license
to import groceries and spices from India ?
Hi Raj,
You won't need an import license, but you will need to ensure a few important details in addition to standard import requirements. Filing prior notice with the FDA and providing proof of foreign facility registration are just a couple of the details you'll need to take care of.
Our Licensed Customs Brokers can assist you with all of these details and more! When you're ready, schedule a consulting session using the link below. They'll provide you with everything you need to be prepared to import your food items. We look forward to helping you!
Customs consulting services
I would like to know if we can send 5 pallets of bottled water to a customer in Virginia USA. Does the consignee require import license to import the bottled water? Or what are the mandatory requirements to import bottled water from Malaysia?
Hello,
The Incoterms of your shipment will dictate whether you or your consignee are responsible for the customs clearance of the goods. If you don't want your consignee to have to deal with customs clearance, you can choose terms that will have you handling all of that for them.
One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to confirm some details with you and provide further assistance if you need it. We look forward to helping you!
Hi, im importing used authentic branded purses. What papers do i need ?
Hi Cherry,
The documentation that you'll need will depend on whether these are being imported for personal or commercial use. If they're being imported for commercial use, the biggest concern will be ensuring you're compliant with Intellectual Property Rules. Many purses are seized by CBP due to IPR violations. We have an article that specifically discusses IPR and purse imports- Replice Purse Imports and IPR.
One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to obtain additional information so that we can assist you.
Hi I have a plan to import teff flour for food from Ethiopia would I have to have a license for that
And how can I meet with customs broker?
Hi Haimanot,
Any food products will require numerous steps to be completed before you can legally import. A customs bond serves as an import license. We offer a continuous customs bond for only $245. You can purchase the bond at the link below:
Customs Bond
Additionally, one of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to schedule a consultation with our Licensed Customs Brokers. We look forward to helping you!
Hi, What license do I need to import green bean, roasted, powder coffee to USA?
Hi Friberg,
You'll need to obtain a customs bond which will serve as your import license. We offer continuous customs bonds for only $245. You can purchase the bond at link below.
Continuous Customs Bond
Hi,
I am interested in buying succulents from Korea through Alibaba worth approximately $1,500 for my garden but the seller told me that I will need an import permit and will need to facilitate customs clearance. I need help in facilitating door-to-door delivery. Any advice?
Hi Sheree,
You can proceed with this seller and work with a customs broker to help clear your shipment. You can also look for other sellers that handle the customs clearance and shipping of your goods. The shipping terms, or Incoterms, are what determine which aspects of shipping and customs clearance the seller and buyer are responsible for.
One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to discuss your options further.
Hi, I Wanted to know if I require an import license to import drinking water filters systems from Israel to the United States. The value will exceed $2500 and its intended for resale online
Hi Elihana,
You won't need a specific import license from any government agency. However, you will need a customs bond and you'll also have some EPA regulations to comply with since they're the agency that oversees importation of these devices.
Our team can provide you with the customs bond that you need, as well as consult with you on exactly how to comply with EPA's import requirements. One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to provide you with additional information.
Hello , i am interested in selling organic castor oil in US from India.
i want to know What are the requirements , licences etc i need to comply to be registered/eligible to sell online in US?
let me know what documents we need to prepare?
Hi Gunjeet,
There are going to be quite a few provisions you'll need to have in place. This includes working with an FDA registered facility and obtaining a USDA import permit. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to schedule a 1-on-1 consultation with our Licensed Customs Brokers. We look forward to helping you!
Hello. Do I need a permit to import succulents from Korea; although the seller provides a phytosanitary certificate for each plant.
Hi Maria,
Whether or not you will need a permit will depend on a few factors including the shipping terms that the seller is using and whether these are being import for personal or commercial use. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to obtain additional information so that we can assist you.
Hello
I would like to import some "Indoor and outdoor battery powered train rides for kids" what are the requirements to get the Import License. It will be mine first import.
Regards
Hi Sohail,
One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to assist you. We look forward to helping you!
Hi I want to import fiji groceries like canned food, candies, kava bilos, tania bowl , dried spices for food, dried kava roots, powered milk , bottle sauces, bottle juices etc
Where can I apply and how can I find a broker?
How much do I have to pay ?
Hi Shivangani,
You've already found a broker! We can serve as your Licensed Customs Broker for importing the products that you mentioned. When it comes to the costs, this will depend on the total value of the goods that you're importing, as well as the specific import duty amounts. One of our customs experts will be reaching out to you shortly via e-mail!
Good afternoon.
Would like to know if I need a lisence to import paper towel. Thank you for your attention.
Hi Manuel,
You won't need a special license from any government agency. However, if the imported paper towels will be resold in the U.S., you will need a customs bond for your shipment. We offer continuous customs bonds for only $245.
I would like to import scented candle from china. The first order will be more then $10000. Do I need an import permit?
Hi Lizzy,
You won't need an import permit as candles aren't regulated by other government agencies. However, based on the value of your shipment, you will need to secure your shipment with a customs bond. We can provide you with a continuous customs bond which covers all of your shipments for one full year.
You can purchase the continuous customs bond from us at the link below:
Continuous Customs Bond
Hello! I am looking to import Sport Apparel for a business and will be importing regularly. Would I need a license for this?
Hi Joseph,
You won't need an import license for this. However, depending on the value of the shipment (if $2,500 or more) you'll need to obtain a customs bond. You'll also need to ensure your clothing complies with labeling rules, flammability requirements, and more. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to provide you with an overview and schedule a consultation.We look forward to helping you!
hi , if I need to import cement from another country for distribution , what are the rules that need to be followed for the proper clearance? Is it different import tax for different countries?
Hi Julias,
The rules and fees will vary in some cases based on where you're importing your cement from. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to obtain additonal information so that we can further assist you. We look forward to helping you!
Hi
I would like to import infant clothes 100% Pima from Peru to USA. The amount is approx. $20,000. What would I need? Do you provide in your consultation the specifics for labeling?
Hi Nadja,
At the bare minimum, you'll need to register with CBP if you aren't already, obtain a customs bond, and ensure your shipment is compliant with clothing importing regulations. We can help you with all of this and review the complete process during an import consultation. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you!
Hello! I am looking to import biodegradable products for a business and will be importing regularly. Would I need a license for this?
Hi Triya,
We need to know some additional information about the products you're importing to determine if you'll need an import license. We've replied to you privately to gather this additional information. We look forward to helping you!
Hi, I Wanted to know if I require an import license to import floor and wall tiles from India to the United States. The value will exceed $2500.
Hi Sajid,
A special import license is not required for this commodity. However, you will need to cover your import with a customs bond since the value exceeds $2,500. We offer continuous customs bonds for just $245.