The following information is being offered as a guideline for general reference and may not include all of the requirements needed for clearance of your specific shipment and goods.

If you qualify as “U.S. Personnel” or have “Evacuee” status please call for specific instructions…

An import service representative is available for any questions or clarification. Feel free to give us a call.

What Emmanuel Customs Brokers does for You as your Customs Broker:

  • Provide guidance regarding the proper documentation required to clear your goods.
  • Assist you in completing your Customs Form 3299.
  • Liaise with Customs and Border Protection, carriers, forwarders, moving companies, ports, terminals, other Government Agencies and others involved in the release of your goods.
  • Make sure you are compliant with the laws and regulations governing the import of your Personal and Household Effects.
  • Follow the status of your shipment through exams and holds when required by CBP, USDA, FDA and other government agencies.
  • Arrange for delivery, once cleared of Customs, to your door or warehouse.

What you need to know

  • “Household Moves” are ideally handled by a Moving/Relocation company. They will ensure that the goods are properly packaged and loaded for sea or air transport and will ensure that you do not ship anything that is prohibited or restricted by CBP or other Government agencies. Moving/Relocation companies also handle the transportation details, know the documentation requirements and act as an intermediary between the Customs Broker and you. They also facilitate delivery of your household articles once they are cleared through Customs.
  • Commercial Goods (including samples, goods for resale, or goods purchased abroad within the past calendar year) do not qualify as personal effects for Customs purposes. In short, you will still need a broker but there are different requirements and costs. The bottom line is that if you purchased goods while out of the country and ship them into the United States, these goods are probably subject to duty and taxes. And will require that a “formal entry” be filed with Customs. Check out the Customs brochure below for further clarification.

Exceptions

  • Firearms (including Fireworks)
  • Vehicles
  • Wildlife Articles
  • Live Animals
  • Perishables
  • Wine or Alcohol
  • Items Imported for Non Personal use (or Resale)
  • Any other restricted items

These items are regulated by other government agencies as well as by Customs. If any of these articles are included in your shipment of personal effects, please contact us and/or Customs regarding the import requirements.