US Customs Clearance Requirements — Documents, Process, Timing

Core documents on every shipment

The basics apply whether you ship ocean or air, whether you use a broker or self-file.

• Commercial invoice — describes the goods, value, origin, HS code, Incoterms. Must match the purchase order and the packing list.
• Packing list — carton-level detail. What's in each carton, weight, dimensions.
• Bill of lading (ocean) or air waybill (air) — the transport contract + proof of ownership.
• Arrival notice — issued by the carrier when the shipment reaches port. Triggers the clearance clock.
• Entry summary (CBP Form 7501) — filed by your broker to declare the shipment. Most importers don't touch this directly.
• Importer of Record number — either your EIN (for US companies) or a CBP-issued number for non-resident importers.
• Customs bond — required for any shipment over $2,500. Single-entry or continuous (annual). Most sellers get continuous bonds through their broker for $250–500/year.

Agency-specific requirements

Beyond CBP, other agencies (PGAs — Partner Government Agencies) may need to clear your goods before CBP releases them. Which apply depends on the product.

• FCC — any device with a radio transmitter (Bluetooth, WiFi, cellular). Need the FCC ID on file and compliant labeling.
• FDA — food, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, some tools. Prior Notice required for food.
• CPSC — children's products (under 12), cribs, strollers, car seats. Requires a Children's Product Certificate (CPC) and third-party testing.
• USDA — anything with plant or animal materials, including wood packaging (ISPM-15 stamp required).
• EPA — pesticides, some chemicals, certain vehicles and engines.

De minimis — the $800 threshold

Under Section 321, individual shipments valued at $800 or less to a single consignee in one day can enter duty-free with minimal paperwork. DDP sellers ship in small consolidations to use this. In 2026, Section 321 is under active review — Chinese-origin goods may lose eligibility on a rolling basis.

Typical clearance timeline

For a cleanly-documented ocean FCL with no PGA issues: 1–3 business days after arrival. Add days for any hold: CBP exam (random, ~3%), PGA review, document discrepancy. Partial shipments or mis-manifested cargo can take weeks to resolve.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a customs broker?

Technically no — you can self-file. Practically, almost every importer uses one. A broker handles the HTS classification, files the entry summary, and deals with CBP questions. Fees are typically $50–150 per entry plus a continuous bond fee.

What happens if CBP finds a problem?

They issue a CF-28 (request for information) or CF-29 (proposed action, usually reclassification at higher duty). You have 30 days to respond. Ignoring these triggers penalties and potential seizure.