All imports are subject to the import requirements of US Customs, but some products face additional regulations from various other government agencies — these are considered 'special cargo.'

Government Agencies to Know

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives regulates the illegal use and trafficking of firearms and explosives, and the illegal diversion of alcohol and tobacco products.

The Bureau of Industry and Security which regulates the import and export of “dual-use” goods that have both civilian and military applications.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission which enforces several federal laws to protect the public against unreasonable risks of injuries and deaths associated with consumer products.

The Department of Transportation which regulates the import of motor vehicles and other forms of transportation.

The Environmental Protection Agency which regulates imports that may have an impact on the environment.

The Federal Communications Commission regulates products with interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable.

The Food and Drug Administration which regulates food, drugs, and consumer/commercial products which may have an impact on the health of the user.

The Fish and Wildlife departments are state agencies that regulate commercial fishing and wildlife as well as their import and the control the spread of invasive species

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service enforces the Lacey Act which regulates the import of any species protected by international or domestic law and prevents the spread of invasive, or non-native, species.  Plant and Wood products are also subject regulation under a 2008 amendment.

The Office of Political Military Defense Trade Controls which regulates the import and export of products and technology that may impact the national security of the United States.

The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service regulates food, agricultural, plants and animal products as well as soil, organisms and vectors.

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Products that fall under the jurisdiction of any of these agencies have additional processing requirements, as determined by the HTS codes used during Customs entry filing. 

It’s a lot to remember, but we’re here to help. Our Customs Brokerage partners work with you every step of the way to make ensure your regulatory compliance is smooth and easy.