Import costs · 3 min read
Documents and facts to gather before estimating a U.S. import
Before ordering, collect a detailed product description, quantities, supplier price and sale term, manufacturing origin, estimated entry date, transport mode and separate freight/insurance quotes. A pro forma can start the estimate, but entry documentation depends on the shipment and can require a commercial invoice or permitted substitute and other applicable records.
Ask the supplier for product and price facts
| Request | Why it matters | Evidence to keep |
|---|---|---|
| Full description and specifications | Classification and admissibility review | Datasheet, photos, model/part details |
| Quantities, units and packing | Price reconciliation and freight quote | Offer and packing details |
| Price, currency and sale term | Customs-value and logistics review | Pro forma, contract and later final invoice |
| Manufacturing origin and supplier identity | Origin and possible order-scope questions | Written origin statement and manufacturer details |
U.S. invoice-content rules call for detailed descriptions, quantities, value, charges and origin, among other facts. Asking for them early reduces gaps; it does not mean every pre-purchase quote is already a compliant entry invoice.
Complete the route and timing worksheet
- Record the expected U.S. entry date, transport mode, port and final delivery point.
- Ask a forwarder for freight, insurance and later delivery legs as separate amounts.
- Ask the customs broker to review classification, valuation, origin and product admissibility where uncertain.
- Keep manufacturer/exporter details if AD/CVD order scope may need checking.
A pro forma supports early discussion; the commercial invoice records the transaction. Transport documents such as a bill of lading or airway bill document movement, but the exact entry package depends on the shipment. The entry rule allows specific substitutes and calls for a packing list when appropriate, plus other documents if applicable.
Mark gaps before calculating
If the U.S. HTS code is unresolved, leave it blank until classification is supported. If freight or services are unquoted, keep them pending; if customs value is unclear, ask for a document-based broker review. A partial worksheet can still guide questions, but it is not a final purchase budget.
Assumptions and limits
Assumptions
- This is a pre-purchase estimation checklist for commercial goods entering the U.S.; not every document must exist before a quote.
Costs and duties not included
- It is not a universal filing checklist; product-specific permits, agency controls and entry exceptions need a separate review.
Prepare your own estimate
Use your shipment details to open the existing calculator.
Use digits and a dot, with up to two decimals (for example, 1200.50).
Opening the calculator prepares these inputs. Only pressing Calculate uses a calculation from your plan.
You will need to select the correct HTS code in the calculator before it can estimate duties.
Common questions
Do I need a final commercial invoice to start estimating?
No. A detailed pro forma can start a preliminary estimate, but reconcile it to the final transaction and the actual entry documentation later.
Is a separate packing list mandatory for every shipment?
The entry rule specifies a packing list where appropriate and allows related information in other forms. Confirm the actual entry requirements with the broker.
Sources
- 19 CFR 141.86, invoice contents
U.S. Customs and Border Protection / eCFR · Checked
- 19 CFR 152.103, transaction value
U.S. Customs and Border Protection / eCFR · Checked
- HTS classification FAQs
United States International Trade Commission · Checked
- AD/CVD frequently asked questions
U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration · Checked
- Customs brokers and freight forwarders
U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration · Checked
- Determine total export price
U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration · Checked
- Common export documents
U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration · Checked
- 19 CFR 142.3, entry documentation
U.S. Customs and Border Protection / eCFR · Checked
Related guides
Import costs · 3 min read
FOB, CIF and U.S. customs value: what should you enter?
Use sale terms to understand who pays each leg, then determine customs value from the transaction facts and documented adjustments.
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HS code vs. U.S. HTS code: classify before you calculate
Understand the shared six-digit HS base, U.S. extensions, notes and the evidence needed to validate an import classification.
Classification and duties · 3 min read
Check AD/CVD scope before ordering imported goods
Investigate written order scope and producer/exporter facts before treating a duty estimate as a complete purchase budget.