As a starting point, here are a few things to bear in mind before you ship:

• Providing the correct details and documents is key
• Information should be provided in English
• Regulated goods (such as drugs, food, biological substances and medical devices) are subject to additional governmental control
• Adding the recipient’s phone number and email to the invoice and packing list will avoid clearance delays if your carrier has any questions
• Keep an eye on U.S. regulations and check them before shipping to ensure you’re up to date.

Before shipping to the U.S., you need to complete a commercial invoice and an air waybill. If you’re sending regulated goods (e.g., alcohol, medical devices or electronics) then you and the recipient may need to provide extra documents.

Each shipment’s required customs documents differ based on where the shipment is from, where it’s going, and the commodity being shipped. Certain export shipments from the U.S. also require an Electronic Export Information (EEI) filing.

If you’re importing goods from the USA, download our checklist.

1. A precise goods description
   Providing a full and accurate description of your goods is crucial. Remember to include any specific details and avoid generic descriptions.
   
   
2. An accurate Harmonized System (HS) code
   You can find an item’s Harmonized System code online using an HS code search tool or on your country’s government website.
   
   
3. Country of origin
   List the country of origin of your goods. This is where the goods were manufactured, not where you’re sending the goods from.
   
   
4. The recipient’s contact details
   In case the U.S. customs authorities need to contact the receiver with questions, you need to provide your receiver’s details.

Here are a few links mentioned in our video to help you out:

EU Customs websites

U.S. Customs & Border Protection website

National Institute of Standards and Technology

Incoterms^©

FedEx International Shipping Assist

European Commission’s Access to Markets

Exporting to the U.S.

When it comes to shipping to the USA, it’s all about getting your customs paperwork in order. That way your goods breeze through customs and you avoid delays.

Below are a few links to get you started and make sure you’re up to speed on all the regulations before shipping.

1. How to prepare an FDA prior notice
2. Preparing the paperwork
3. Submitting the paperwork electronically
4. Understanding shipping to the US.
5. Creating a shipment