Navigating U.S. tariffs and customs regulations

Required documents vary by many factors, such as value, type of goods, and country of origin. If you’re not familiar with international shipping, the best option is to work with a customs broker or use a tool that can help you identify what paperwork is necessary.

• If you’re looking for a simple, guided experience, try FedEx International Shipping Assist for free. 
• If you’re looking for more robust information, FedEx^® Global Trade Manager is your one-stop resource for international shipping information. This free tool helps identify necessary customs paperwork, contains snapshots of requirements for specific countries, and provides estimates for duties and taxes.
• Once you’ve completed your documents, you can submit them for free immediately to help avoid delays with FedEx^® Electronic Trade Documents.

A Harmonized System code is essentially an internationally recognized label for your product—it helps ensure that all countries can recognize what’s being shipped. You might also see a Harmonized System code referred to as HC, HTS, or commodity code. For U.S. imports, the HS code will be 10 digits, and it’s defined by the description of what’s being imported. 

If you need help finding your code, try FedEx International Shipping Assist. You’ll fill out simple forms about your shipment, and we’ll provide information like your HS code, estimated shipping cost, and blank copies of your customs documentation.

A Manufacturer’s Identification code (MID code) is a shorthand reference to a manufacturer. It helps make sure government agencies understand exactly where the product originated, and it’s used as an alternative to a manufacturer’s full name and address. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires a MID code for every import.

A MID code follows a simple formula:

[Two-letter ISO code from supplier’s country] + [First 3 letters of manufacturer’s first name (and last name if applicable)] + [First digits (up to four) of manufacturer’s street address] + [Postal code (if there’s no postal code, you can leave it out.)]

So if you were importing from this company:

Nordic Lighting Solutions

78 Strandvej

Copenhagen, Denmark

Postal Code: DK-2100

The MID Code would be:

DKNOR0078COP2100

De minimis provides for the duty and tax free entry into the U.S. of articles valued at $800 or less that are imported by one person on one day. This sometimes means there’s less paperwork needed—but it’s dependent on the country of origin. Make sure to check that country’s exemptions before you ship. If you ship with a tool like FedEx International Shipping Assist, we’ll help identify what paperwork, duties, and taxes are required.

We offer several tools that can help you estimate duties and taxes. 

FedEx International Shipping Assist can provide an estimate. It’s a great solution if you’re new to international shipping or simply want help with a one-off shipment.

FedEx^® Global Trade Manager can help you determine total landed costs for shipments. This tool is helpful if you’re regularly shipping internationally. 

And FedEx WorldTariff^® can provide an in-depth analysis of your international strategy, helping you identify opportunities to save on duties and taxes. This is the best solution if you’re building (or want to improve) a complex international shipping plan.

You can use any customs broker you want when you ship internationally with FedEx. We’re international experts who can serve as your broker, or we’ll work with your broker through FedEx International Broker Select^®.