If you’re a first-time importer or a startup company looking to import products from Spain, first of all, congratulations! Importing products from Spain to the United States can be a rewarding experience. Successfully importing requires a clear understanding of logistics, regulations, and documentation.
Summary Checklist
- Investigate import regulations for your product.
- Obtain an importer of record number with CBP.
- Air or ocean shipping methods to the U.S.
- Incoterms
- Clearing U.S. Customs and paying duties.
- Arrange for shipping and delivery with a U.S.-based freight forwarder.
- Pay duties, fees, and taxes upon arrival.
Import Regulations
Certain products from Spain can be imported into the U.S. with a packing list, commercial invoice, and bill of lading (BOL). Other products, such as olives, foodstuffs, and nearly anything intended for consumption, will require compliance with FDA and Food Safety (FMSA) regulations to enter the U.S.
Contact a licensed U.S. Customs broker who can help you get an idea of import requirements for your cargo before purchasing from your supplier. Your cargo won’t be allowed entry into the U.S. if it doesn’t meet import requirements. A customs broker will also get you an importer of record number with U.S. CBP.
Shipping Methods to the U.S.
You have two shipping methods to get your product to the U.S. The fastest option is airfreight, while ocean freight is slightly slower but can be more cost-effective, especially for high-volume shipments and cargo that isn’t time-critical.
You have two options when it comes to ocean freight. LCL, which stands for less-than-container loads, means you share space in a container with other importers. FCL is an entire container to yourself. Whether you pick FCL or LCL, you will need to file an ISF form before it leaves Italy to avoid penalties with CBP.
Incoterms
Incoterms are a set of standardized trade terms published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). They define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in international transactions regarding the delivery of goods.
Selecting the right incoterm for your shipment comes down to your tolerance for risk and your experience in logistics.
If you prefer to have control over every aspect of your shipment for cost control, select Ex Works (EXW). The seller’s responsibility is to make the goods available for pickup at the warehouse or factory, and your responsibility as the buyer is to arrange for pickup and delivery door-to-door with a freight forwarder. You assume the risk as soon as the goods leave your manufacturer’s facility.
Select DAP incoterm (delivered at place) if you only want to handle the logistics and risk once your cargo reaches the U.S. Your manufacturer is responsible for arranging the entire shipment to a named place, such as the Port of Los Angeles or LAX airport.
Discover more Incoterms by reading our handy article here.
Clearing U.S. Customs
Once your cargo arrives at the U.S. port of entry or airport, a customs broker will assist you in clearing your cargo for entry into the U.S. You’ll need to sign a power of attorney form for them to process entry, and provide them with the commercial invoice, packing list, and arrival notice. You will pay duties to U.S. Customs based on your products’ HTS code.
Delivery to Your Door
Airfreight arrives to the cargo section of the airport, and you can personally pick up the cargo or contract with a local trucking company for final delivery. LCL cargo arrives to a container freight station where it’s unloaded and made available for pickup. FCL shipments will require contracting with a drayage company for final delivery.
Work with a Freight Forwarder
A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor. Importing is challenging enough, and navigating the unexpected can be even more difficult without the right partner to guide you through the rough seas. For over 15 years, we have been helping individuals and businesses across the U.S. successfully import from Spain, door-to-door. We’re here to keep your cargo moving so you can focus on growing your business.
Ready to Ship?
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