How to Import Speakers and Headphones Into the U.S.

If you are looking to import speakers and headphones into the U.S., then there are a few things you’re going to need to be aware of. Electronics are heavily regulated commodities, and if your speakers and headphones have Bluetooth capabilities, then they are going to have even more strict regulations applied to them. However, with that said, importing speakers to the U.S. is not as difficult as you might think. Once you understand the regulations that apply to them, getting your shipment through customs is a breeze!

Importing speakers into the U.S. requires complying with the federal guidelines for imported electronics. If the devices being imported have Bluetooth elements, then they will need to be in compliance with the FCC regulations. There are also standard customs clearance requirements and voluntary quality guidelines that you need to be aware of. 

Due to the regulations and requirements, many businesses choose to work with a Licensed Customs Broker when importing headphones and speakers. USA Customs Clearance, powered by AFC International offers customs consulting sessions with Licensed Customs Brokers. Our team of experts can answer all of your questions and make sure everything is in place to securely import your products. 

To learn more about the specific rules and guidelines, read our comprehensive guide below.

What are FCC Requirements?

The first thing you need to think about when importing speakers and headphones is if they qualify as radiofrequency devices. Any device that can connect to other devices with Bluetooth is considered a radiofrequency device, and as such, is regulated more carefully.

The agency in charge of issuing regulations applying to radiofrequency devices is the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). You will need to get your devices certified by the FCC in order for them to be allowed into the U.S. This involves having the products tested by an FCC-recognized company, and after passing their inspections, the devices will be certified. 

Once the devices have been certified, then you need to issue a document known as the FCC SDoC, which contains:

• Your company information
• Your company contacts
• An identification of the product
• The applicable standard that the devices conform to
• The name and signature of a signee (you or your representative, in this case)
• Relevant test reports

Electrical Product Safety Standards

The Electrical Product Safety Standards are voluntary guidelines to determine how safe your products are to use. These product safety standards are evaluated by independent companies, with the most well-known one being Underwriters Laboratories (UL) LLC. 

Although it is not legally required for importing, you should consider pursuing certification for your products regardless. In order for your products to become UL certified, you will be expected to demonstrate proper safety protocols, be transparent with expenses, utilize sustainable practices in manufacturing, and demonstrate reliability and quality performance with the products. 

Different elements of the product can be evaluated using different standards. For example, a Bluetooth speaker would require certification for its batteries, its audio-video components, and any other features it may have. 

Many imported speakers and headphones comes from Mexico. Due to the proximity of the U.S. and Mexico and general positive trade relations, importing products from Mexico to the U.S. is typically a smooth transaction. Consider this when deciding where to source your products from.

How to Clear U.S. Customs with Speaker Imports

In order to import anything into the United States, you need to comply with the rules set forth by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These rules are fairly straightforward, and your customs broker with USA Customs Clearance can help you understand the specifics of the individual requirements. 

To import speakers and headphones into the U.S., you need to make sure that the country of origin is labeled on the device itself. It should be permanently attached to each product, not just the packaging. In addition to that, you will also need to provide:

• A packing list
• A commercial invoice
• A Bill of Lading (BOL)
• And an arrival notice

You will need to acquire something called a “customs bond.” Customs bonds are an important part of importing into the U.S., because they protect CBP and ensure that the customs duty and taxes get paid on your shipment. They are required for all shipments of speakers and headphones, regardless of their value or purpose. Think of a customs bond like an insurance policy between you the shipper, CBP, and a third-party surety company.

With USA Customs Clearance, powered by AFC International, you can apply for a continuous customs bond and get approval the same day. You can even get assistance with filing your bond application, so you can save time and get your shipment moving as soon as possible. 

Import Speakers and Headphones Into the U.S. with USA Customs Clearance

Importing speakers to the U.S. is a big job, but with USA Customs Clearance on your side, the process is easier than ever! Our service to you goes “beyond the bond,” meaning we continue to serve you even after you’ve purchased a bond with us. USA Customs Clearance, powered by AFC International is an active member of Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), which gives you added benefits of working with us. Not only will you have access to a team of highly knowledgeable licensed customs brokers, but thanks to our C-TPAT partnership, you will also experience shorter wait times and a reduced likelihood of inspections at the border.

If you’re not ready to commit to buying a bond for importing speakers to the U.S., then there’s another option for you. We also offer customized import consulting services to answer all of your questions and walk you through the entire import process. 

If you have additional questions, give us a call at (855)912-0406. Our team is ready to assist you.