Printable Version US Customs introduce new requirements for alcohol sample imports free of Certificate of Label Approval

US Customs have recently implemented new procedures relating to the importation of alcohol samples free of Certificate of Label Approval requirements. These cover samples specifically imported to solicit orders, to promote sales at trade shows or to be submitted for analyses and tests in US laboratories.
 
Importers seeking waivers from Certificate of Label Approval requirements should submit their applications to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) prior to seeking the release of imported samples from Customs’ custody. Approvals of such applications are subject to importers satisfying the following requirements:

1. They should have an Importer’s Basic Permit
2. All necessary duties and taxes must be paid
3. All sample bottles should be marked “For Trade Show (or Sample) Purposes Only – Not for Sale”
4. All sample bottles should have a Health Warning Label affixed to them
5. All wine sample bottles should also labelled “Contains Sulfites"
6. All sample bottles should be labelled according to the provisions of 3-5 above prior to their arrival at Customs’ premises from the foreign source

The table below sets out relevant requirements for each country of origin concerned. Full details of all the new procedures including a template guide for making waiver applications can be found on the TTB’s website at www.ttb.gov.  For more information you can also contact our FedEx Customer Service on 08456 07 08 09.