U.S. importer of record
& warehouse support.
IOR and import support for U.S. buyers and overseas suppliers bringing physical goods into the United States.
Begin with the parties and the goods.
Tell us who is selling, buying and receiving the product, where it originates and what the delivery terms require. These details establish the starting point for an importer-of-record review.
A project may need a third-party IOR arrangement. Another may need coordination while the customer remains IOR. The appropriate scope is agreed after reviewing the transaction.
Connect the import to the warehouse.
If the shipment will enter a stock program, align the import information with receiving references, product labels, packaging and arrival instructions. Clarifying the destination early helps keep the handoffs consistent.
Review warehouse requirements ↗Information needed for review
- Product description, intended use and country of origin.
- Buyer, seller, receiver and proposed importer arrangement.
- Shipment value, quantities, mode and expected timing.
- Commercial invoice, packing information and available product documentation.
- Destination, receiving requirements and any planned storage or partial releases.
IOR and customs broker responsibilities
The importer of record carries importer responsibilities. A licensed customs broker performs authorized customs work in its licensed role. Engaging a broker does not, by itself, remove the importer’s responsibilities.
The service scope identifies the IOR and how required customs work is coordinated. Acceptance depends on the goods and transaction.
Reference: CBP guidance for new importers and exporters.
Before we get started.
Can a U.S. company use this service?
Yes. U.S. companies may need an import arrangement or help coordinating an existing one. A domestic business address does not resolve every operational import requirement.
Can I use my current supplier or forwarder?
Include the parties already involved in the shipment. Their roles and the support needed can be reviewed without assuming a change of supplier.
Does the IOR arrangement transfer ownership of the stock?
Inventory ownership and the importer role should be addressed explicitly in the commercial arrangement. Do not assume ownership changes simply because an import service is provided.
Before the truck reaches the receiving location
Identify who confirms the import release and authorizes final transport. Share the shipment reference, purchase order, packing details, expected quantities, receiving appointment and handling instructions. Define who receives shortage or damage reports.
Receiving establishes what arrived. The agreed inspection and stock-status process establishes what is available for later delivery. Use the receiving and release checklist.