Shipping to USA – Prohibited and Restricted Goods

The importation of firearms is highly restricted in the U.S along with meat, fruit, vegetables, plants, soil and products made from plant and animal material. Products of endangered species (i.e. ivory, animal hides, etc) as well as narcotics, drugs without prescriptions, automobiles that do not meet US safety and emission standards, and flammable materials are all restricted from being shipped into the USA.

The reason as to why plants, soil and animals are restricted from being imported into the USA is because agricultural pests and diseases are a threat to the food stocks and livestock of the USA. Some of these organisms are highly contagious animal diseases that could cause severe economic damage to the livestock industry and losses in production, which would mean increased costs for meat and dairy products. Other pests can affect property values by damaging lawns, ornamental plants, trees, and even homes.

To stop such aspects being brought into the USA the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) protect USA agriculture against the introduction of foreign animal and plant diseases at all ports of entry. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) develops the policies that determine what agricultural products can come into the country and what products pose a risk and should be kept out. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at ports of entry enforce these agricultural policies. Confiscated items are carefully destroyed in special CBP facilities.

The shipping of alcoholic beverages and food is highly discouraged because of the Bioterrorism Act of 2002. When either is included in a household goods shipment the transferee must provide authorities (Food and Drug Administration) advance notice by completing a Prior Notice. For additional information go to the following website: http://www.fda.gov/oc/bioterrorism/bioact.html

When it comes to household goods and personal effects, used household goods are admitted duty free if they have been in the owner's possession for 12 months prior to importation to the U.S.A. Items purchased abroad within the last twelve months are considered dutiable. U.S. Customs will not allow clearance of household goods prior to owner's arrival date.

Some of the documents that are required when it comes to shipping to the USA include:

• Completed and signed US Customs and Border Protection Form CBP 3299 (10/95) and Supplemental.
• Signed U.S. Customs Power of Attorney.
• Inventory in English.
• Photocopies of passport photo page.

·        Copies of original ocean bill of lading or air waybill.