Understanding the customs clearance process is extremely important if you want to import goods into the USA. The last thing you want is to have your goods impounded at the border.
Clearing customs involves strict regulations. If you don’t comply, you could face delays, penalties, and extra costs. But once you know the rules, importing can be smooth, efficient, and a real advantage for your business. This is especially true given the recent changes to U.S. tariff policy.
Most significantly, the $800 de minimis exemption ended on August 29, 2025. This means ALMOST ALL commercial shipments—even those valued under $800—now require formal customs processing and payment of duties. What used to be a simple process for small packages has become much more complex, making proper customs compliance more critical than ever.
In this guide, we’ll break down the U.S. import process step-by-step so you can avoid costly mistakes.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Import Process
Importers must meet basic requirements set by Customs & Border Protection (CBP). That includes proper documentation, accurate classification of goods, and adherence to import regulations. Here is what you need to know in order to import goods.
Step 1: Obtain a Customs Bond
A customs bond is a financial guarantee to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that you’ll follow regulations and pay duties, taxes, and fees. Without one, your goods can’t legally clear customs.
There are two types of bonds:
- Single-entry bond: Covers one shipment—ideal for occasional importers.
- Continuous bond: Covers all shipments over a year—better for frequent importers.
You can get a bond through a customs broker or surety company.
Step 2: Properly Classify Your Goods
Using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), classify each product accurately. Your classification determines the tariff rate and regulatory requirements.
For instance, if you are importing electronic gadgets, you need to find the specific HS Code that matches each item to determine the exact duty rate. Misclassifying items could result in paying higher tariffs or facing penalties. This can disrupt your business operations and increase costs.
Misclassification can lead to higher duties or penalties. If in doubt, work with a customs broker to verify codes before shipping.
As Chris Rivera, CPA and founder of The Ecommerce Accountants, warns: “Don’t just think in terms of product cost—think in terms of landed cost. Factor in duties, freight, customs fees, and delays.”
Accurate classification now avoids expensive mistakes later.
Step 3: Prepare and Submit Required Documentation
Essential documents for importing include the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Packing List. These documents must be completed accurately and submitted to the CBP.
Double check to be sure all details are correct and consistent across documents to avoid processing delays. Submissions can be made electronically via the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) or manually, depending on the requirements.
Your documents have to be done right. Rushing through documentation is asking for a rough import process. As an example, if the Commercial Invoice lists 500 units of a product, the Packing List should also reflect this exact quantity. Any discrepancy can trigger delays and additional inspections, complicating the import process.
Using ACE for electronic submissions not only speeds up the process but also provides real-time tracking of your submission status. That makes it easier to manage.
Step 4: Determine Entry Type
There are different types of entry for imported goods: Formal Entry and Informal Entry.
Formal Entry is required for goods valued over $2,500 or items subject to regulations and quotas. Informal Entry applies to goods valued between $250 and $2,500 for most products (though textiles and certain regulated items may require formal entry regardless of value).\
For example, if you’re importing high-value electronics worth $10,000, you’ll need to file a Formal Entry with extensive documentation. A small batch of handcrafted goods worth $1,500 would qualify for Informal Entry, but even a $200 shipment now requires customs processing and duty payment—something that wasn’t required before August 2025.
Important: The de minimis exemption that previously allowed packages under $800 to enter duty-free no longer exists as of August 29, 2025. Even small shipments now require customs entries and duty payment. At time of writing, this has dramatically increased the workload for CBP and may cause processing delays.
Step 5: Calculate and Pay Duties and Taxes
Duties and taxes are calculated based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification of your goods. Each classification has a corresponding duty rate. To calculate the duties, multiply the value of your goods by the applicable duty rate.
Let’s run through an example. If the duty rate for your imported textiles is 5% and the total value is $20,000, you’ll owe $1,000 in duties. Paying this amount promptly helps ensure your goods clear customs without delays.
Payments to the CBP can be made electronically through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) or by other CBP-approved methods. If you use ACE, it will help you accurately calculate and pay duties and taxes. That way, your goods cruise across the border.
Important: As of 2025, U.S. tariffs on many Chinese goods have risen sharply, affecting electronics, textiles, and consumer goods. Double-check tariff rates when importing—especially for products from China and Southeast Asia.
Current tariff rates as of September 2025 are as follows:
- China: Approximately 40% effective rate (after negotiations and suspensions)
- Steel and aluminum products: 41.2%
- Automotive products: 22.3%
- Universal baseline: 10% on most imports
- Mexico and Canada: 25% (implemented March 2025)
These rates change frequently due to ongoing negotiations. Always verify current rates before calculating duties, as using outdated information can result in significant underpayment and penalties.
Step 6: Arrange for Inspection and Release of Goods
CBP may inspect your goods to ensure compliance with regulations. If your shipment is selected for inspection, the CBP will notify you. Prepare by having all necessary documents ready and ensuring your goods are correctly labeled and packaged.
Inspections can be random or based on risk assessments. Cooperating fully with the inspection process and addressing any issues promptly can help expedite the release of your goods.
For example, if you’re importing food products, make sure all items are labeled with ingredients and expiration dates as required. If the CBP decides to inspect your shipment, having everything in order can prevent long delays.
Should any issues arise, promptly provide additional information. If there are discrepancies, correct them. This can help speed up the release of your goods.
11 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Customs clearance can be complicated. There are some mistakes that happen again and again for new and experienced importers alike.
Here are some common ones along with tips on how to avoid them.
#1: Incorrect Classification
Always double-check HTS codes. Misclassification can lead to fines and delays. Use CBP resources or consult a customs broker for accurate classification. For example, if you misclassify electronics as toys, you could face hefty fines and long delays while the error is corrected. Make sure you use the right code by cross-referencing CBP’s guidelines or seeking help from a broker.
#2: Incomplete Documentation
Make sure all forms are filled out accurately and completely. Missing or incorrect information can cause delays. Double-check documents before submission.
For instance, if your Commercial Invoice is missing the total value of goods or has incorrect quantities listed, your shipment could be held up at customs. Take the extra time to verify every detail on your forms.
#3: Ignoring CBP Notices
Respond promptly to any CBP communication. Failure to address notices can result in penalties or shipment holds.
If you receive a notice regarding additional documentation or clarification, respond quickly. Ignoring such notices can lead to your goods being held indefinitely or even seized.
#4: Improper Packaging
Use compliant and secure packaging. Non-compliant packaging can lead to inspection delays or damage claims.
As an example, if you’re shipping fragile items like glassware, using inadequate packaging can result in breakage, leading to claims and delayed processing. Make sure your packaging meets CBP standards and is robust enough to protect your goods.
#5: Failure to Pay Duties
Pay all required fees on time. Late payments can incur fines and delay the release of your goods.
If you fail to pay the calculated duties by the deadline, your goods will not be released until the payment is made. This could cause significant delays in your supply chain.
#6: Neglecting Inspection Procedures
Be prepared for potential inspections. Have all necessary documents and be ready to cooperate with CBP officers.
If your shipment is selected for inspection, having everything in order, like proper labeling and documentation, can expedite the process. Cooperation and readiness can make the inspection smooth and swift.
#7: Overlooking Entry Types
Choose the correct entry type for your goods. Incorrect selection can lead to processing delays and additional scrutiny.
For instance, if you incorrectly file a high-value shipment as an Informal Entry, you could face extra scrutiny and processing time. Understand the distinctions and file appropriately to avoid complications.
#8: Lack of Insurance
Protect your shipment with appropriate insurance. Insurance can cover potential losses or damages during transit. If your goods are lost or damaged during shipping, having insurance means you won’t bear the full financial brunt of the loss. It’s a small investment for peace of mind.
#9: Ignoring Import Restrictions
Make sure your goods comply with all import restrictions and regulations. Restricted items can be seized or returned.
For example, certain chemicals and pharmaceuticals require specific permits and adherence to strict regulations. Ignoring these can result in your goods being confiscated and heavy fines imposed.
#10: Assuming De Minimis Still Applies
The $800 de minimis exemption ended August 29, 2025. All commercial shipments now require customs processing and duty payment, regardless of value. Many importers haven’t adjusted to this change and face unexpected duties and delays.
For example, if you’re importing $500 worth of samples that would have entered duty-free in early 2025, you now need proper documentation and must pay applicable duties. Plan accordingly and budget for these additional costs.
#11: Using Outdated Tariff Rates
Tariff rates have changed dramatically in 2025 and continue to fluctuate. Using rates from even a few months ago can result in significant underpayment.
Always check current rates through official CBP resources or your customs broker before calculating duties. What was a 10% rate in April might be 40% today.
Tips to Use Technology to Speed Up Customs Clearance
Smart use of technology can significantly streamline the customs clearance process. Various tools and software are available to simplify and automate different aspects of importing goods.
The Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) is an important platform provided by the CBP. It allows for electronic submission of documents, real-time tracking, and communication with customs officials.
Additionally, customs management software like Descartes and ONESOURCE Global Trade offer comprehensive solutions for managing compliance, documentation, and duty calculations.
Automated solutions provide lots of benefits, including reducing human error, speeding up document processing, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
These systems can alert you to missing or incorrect information, helping to avoid delays and penalties. For example, if you submit a document with an incorrect HTS code, the software can flag the error and prompt you to correct it before submission, preventing delays.
Real-time tracking allows you to monitor the status of your shipments and quickly address any issues that arise. Imagine being able to see exactly where your shipment is and knowing immediately if it’s stuck at a port, enabling you to take swift action to resolve any problems.
Where possible, avoid manual paperwork. Using the latest tech can keep your import processes efficient in terms of both time and money. Plus, you can cut down on the hassle. It’s worth the slight learning curve of using new software.
Final Thoughts
Understanding and following the customs clearance process is mission-critical for importing goods into the USA. Key steps include obtaining a customs bond, properly classifying goods, preparing documentation, determining entry types, calculating and paying duties, and arranging for inspections.
The elimination of the de minimis exemption and current tariff volatility have made customs clearance more complex than ever. What worked in early 2025 may not work today. Stay informed about current rates and requirements, as they continue to evolve.
Attention to detail counts for a lot here. As long as you are thorough and careful, you can see your products through the import process and clear customs without unnecessary trouble.
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