U.S. Customs Checks Amazon Products Product Cargo Rights Issues

FBA Outer Carton Labeling Recommendations:

Due to the recent increase in inspection rates in the U.S., customs has been strictly monitoring shipments with multiple consignees. On FBA labels for Amazon shipments, the “SHIP TO” (destination) sometimes displays a company name. If U.S. Customs detects this, they may require the corresponding company’s importer tax ID to complete customs clearance. Otherwise, there is a risk of rejection and return of the shipment.

To avoid this issue, we kindly remind all customers to take the following precautions:

1. Before printing the FBA label, delete the company name from the label, and then print it. Delete the company name before printing the label. Delete the company name before printing the label.
2. If the label has already been printed, use a marker to black out the company name.

Please pay close attention to this matter and actively cooperate to ensure smooth customs clearance and avoid rejection or return of the goods.

U.S. Customs to check the right of goods, how does this kind of operation?

U.S. Customs Product Ownership Inspection Process

1. Basic Inspection Authority
   U.S. Customs has the legal authority to inspect all imports and exports. This authority comes from the Tariff Act of 1930 and subsequent amendments. Regardless of the value, destination, or identity of the importer, CBP (Customs and Border Protection) has the right to inspect shipments. Inspections may include:

• Document inspection: Reviewing commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and other documents to verify the accuracy of declared information.
• Physical inspection: Inspecting the actual goods to check if they match the declared information and to ensure there are no illegal or prohibited items.
• Intellectual property inspection: Checking whether the goods infringe on intellectual property rights, especially when counterfeit goods are suspected.

2. Inspection Triggers
   U.S. Customs typically selects shipments for inspection based on a risk assessment system and other factors. These may include:

• Random inspections: Customs may randomly select shipments for examination.
• Risk assessment: CBP evaluates the risk level of goods based on factors like the importer’s history, type of goods, and country of origin. Higher-risk goods are more likely to be inspected.
• Targeted intelligence: If CBP receives specific intelligence about a shipment or suspects it is connected to illegal activities, they may conduct a targeted inspection.
• Abnormal declarations: If the customs declaration documents have inconsistencies, missing information, or suspected false reporting, further investigation and inspection may follow.

3. Main Steps of Customs Inspection

• Arrival at port or airport: Once the goods arrive at a U.S. entry port or airport, the freight forwarder or carrier submits the shipment’s entry information and customs documents (e.g., commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading) to CBP.
• Risk assessment and initial screening: CBP uses an automated system (like the Automated Commercial Environment, ACE) to conduct an initial risk assessment based on factors like the importer’s history, type of goods, and country of origin, to determine if further inspection is necessary.
• Inspection notice: If CBP decides to inspect the goods, the importer or their agent will receive an inspection notice. Inspections may involve document checks, physical inspections, or laboratory tests.
• Physical inspection: CBP officers may open and examine the contents of the shipment to ensure they match the declaration. They check for prohibited or counterfeit goods and ensure compliance with trade regulations. Specific tasks may include:
  • Verifying the quantity of goods against the packing list.
  • Checking if the declared products match the actual items, especially for high-value or sensitive products (e.g., luxury goods, electronics).
  • Examining labels to determine if the goods are counterfeit or violate intellectual property laws.
  • Conducting safety checks for contraband such as drugs, weapons, or illegal chemicals.
• Further testing (if necessary): For certain types of goods (e.g., food, drugs, chemicals), CBP may take samples for further laboratory testing to ensure compliance with U.S. safety and health standards. Agencies like the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) may also be involved in inspecting imported food and drugs.
• Outcome:
  • Release for clearance: If the goods comply with all laws, customs will approve clearance, allowing the shipment to enter the U.S. market.
  • Detention or seizure: If the goods violate U.S. laws, CBP has the authority to detain or seize the shipment, and in some cases, destroy the goods. Common reasons include counterfeit products, banned items, unpaid duties, or false customs declarations.
  • Fines or additional penalties: Besides detaining goods, CBP may impose fines on the importer or agent, or request additional documents for re-declaration.

4. Inspection Time and Costs

• Inspection time: The duration depends on the case, with physical inspections taking a few days to several weeks. If further laboratory tests are required, the time frame may extend.
• Costs: Inspection costs are typically borne by the owner of the goods, including fees for opening, repacking, storage, and transportation. Carriers and warehouse service providers may also charge additional fees, especially if the goods need to be re-routed or stored during inspection.

5. Common Risks and Precautions

• Delays: Inspections may delay customs clearance, impacting the delivery schedule, particularly for seasonal or time-sensitive goods.
• Declaration accuracy: Ensure customs declaration documents are accurate and complete, particularly regarding product descriptions, HS codes, quantities, origins, and values. Incorrect or missing information can trigger inspections.
• Importer compliance: Importers should maintain a good compliance record to avoid frequent inspections and delays.

The U.S. Customs inspection process is a strict and legally grounded procedure. Customs selects goods for inspection based on risk assessment, intelligence, and random checks. Inspections involve document reviews, physical examinations, and even laboratory tests to ensure that goods meet U.S. legal requirements. In cases of non-compliance, customs can detain, fine, or seize the goods.