Importing for Distributors – B2B Wholesale

It is common for distribution companies to import products into the United States. Even with the cost of shipping internationally, buying in bulk and importing is still the most cost effective way to make a profit per item sold. Businesses that import containers every month should form a relationship with a licensed customs broker. A customs broker will help obtain a customs clearance at the port of entry, sometimes even before the freight has arrived. 

Importing containers of products into the United States to resell can range from small items such as sunglasses to large machinery such as a bulldozer. Cargo is packed into a container and loaded onto a boat. Once the freight arrives into the U.S. a customs clearance will need to be obtained in order for your freight to be released from customs. Using a customs broker that is also a freight forwarder can be easier because then one company is managing the shipment door to door. The most cost effective way to import products is to ship via sea freight. It may take anywhere one to four months to receive the freight, but it costs less than shipping it via air. It has become more common for retailers to import directly from overseas manufacturers skipping the middleman distribution company. International trade websites such as abibaba.com and aliexpress.com are connecting wholesalers to overseas manufacturers allowing new connections that were previously not possible.

Distribution companies that are thriving on the low cost of importing products from China and India form a relationship with a licensed customs broker that is able to obtain customs clearances at any port in the U.S. A customs clearance will be required for LTL and full containers coming into the United States. Regulations vary upon commodity, so consulting with a customs broker before scheduling your import shipment is a financially wise decision. 

Freight that has special shipping requirements can be imported with care. Perishable goods such as meat, poultry, dairy and vegetables may need refrigeration door to door along with an FDA clearance before it can be delivered. This can all be arranged ahead of time. Using an experienced freight forwarder will help cargo meet the specific shipping needs.

Importing and exporting heavy machinery to and from the U.S. is becoming more common. Overseas construction contracts often require machines such as helicopters, bulldozers, excavators, trucks, drilling rigs and cars to be imported to a job site. Each shipment will need to be managed by a customs broker that has experience shipping large equipment. Companies that specialize in importing and exporting heavy machinery will often provide the best sea freight rates because they deal with large volumes of equipment. 

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What is a Customs Broker?

A Customs Broker is an individual or a corporation regulated and licensed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, also known as CBP. A broker serves as the legal representative for the importer to the Customs Service They provide services that guide importers guidance and expertise in all aspects of importing merchandise to the USA. Customs broker help importers determine tax liability, ensuring proper classification, valuation, and other assistance in import matters.

Import shipments entering into the commerce of the U.S. requires a customs clearance by CBP. In order for freight to clear customs, the importer of their representative will need to file an entry. Most entries are filed by a customs broker, as the fees are low, and worth their expertise in avoiding problems in the importation process. When the proper information and documentation is provided to the applicable government agency, CBP releases the cargo, and the freight can be delivered to its final destination.

There are all different types of laws that govern freight being shipped internationally. It is always wise, especially when importing, to consult a customs broker to ensure that all government regulations are met. Failure to meet government regulations could result in penalties and additional fees.

All imported freight coming into the U.S. is subject to inspection by CBP. Inspections can incur additional charges. Many variables go into what would cause imported freight to be inspected. A customs broker also acts on behalf of the importer in the event of an inspection. This can help minimize additional time and cost of the freight inspection. They can also address and resolve problems that CBP discovers in the importing process.

In addition to customs clearances, some customs brokers act as freight forwarders. This allows them to arrange for the transportation of goods. It can be more convenient and cost effective for shippers to use a customs broker that acts as a freight forwarder to arrange for door to door delivery of imports and exports.

A Customs brokers experience and expertise can save time and money in the importation of your goods. Consult a customs broker now by visiting www.ServiceShipping.com

How to Import Heavy Machinery

Need to import heavy machinery? Any piece of heavy equipment will most likely need to be shipped with special requirements. Depending on the size of the machine it may need to be partially disassembled or shipped internationally using a larger container. Shipping oversized freight can become complicated if not done correctly.

Documents Required for Importing Heavy Machinery

1. Bill of Lading
2. Commercial Invoice (supplied by shipper)
3. Packing List

What type of duty or other taxes will I have to pay when I import heavy machinery? The amount of duty that will be owed to the government when you import heavy machinery will vary from case to case. The type of engine that the machine has, what the machinery is used for and how much it weighs are all factors that go in to how much duty will be assessed. Duty is required to be paid before a customs clearance is issued to the importer.

It is vital to have a customs broker classify and clear heavy machinery equipment through customs to ensure the easiest experience possible. A customs broker acts as an attorney on behalf of the importer and will file a customs clearance on your behalf. They are also experts on classifying heavy machinery or expensive equipment which ensures importers will pay the least amount of duty legally allowed. This could potentially save the importer thousands of dollars.

The role of a customs broker is important when importing heavy machinery especially if it is a sensitive shipment with special needs. Often times the equipment must be shipped in pieces or in larger containers. Shipping oversized freight requires vast attention to detail and close oversight of the shipment from start to finish. Door to door delivery of heavy machinery consists of getting several transportation companies working together to get your freight to its final destination. Since your heavy machinery freight cargo is a special needs shipment, it is important to work with a company that has experience shipping heavy machinery.

Most customs brokers also act as freight forwarders. This is an advantage for the importer because if a customs broker handles the shipment from origin to destination, they act as the middle man who will communicate with each transportation company from start to finish. It is much easier for the importer to track their shipment by making a phone call to one person, rather than several trying to figure out where their freight is. Using a customs broker when importing heavy machinery is highly recommended.

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