Copy of Passport

When you have to move to United States then you must ensure that you have a passport photocopy. It is an important document to attain authorization to enter into another country. At some ports, you would also be asked to submit the photocopy of passports of all family members who are accompanying you and listed on the form 3299.

Form CF-3299, If Applicable

The owner of the goods is bound to complete the form CF-3299 in order to declare unaccompanied items for free entry into the country.

Copy of Visa (If Non US-citizen or Permanent Resident)/ Photocopy of Permanent Resident Card

If you are non-citizen and want to move to U.S. then you must have a long-term resident visa for importing goods without any duties and taxes. However, if you have a short-term visa then you can only import household goods and personal effects like camping gear, clothing, toiletries, and more.

I-94 Stamp/Card

The I-94 is an arrival card/stamp in the passport of all foreign citizens that signifies the duration of time they have been entered into the USA. Some ports need a copy of this card.

A-1 Visa (Diplomats)

All foreign diplomats with A-1 visa types should process DS-1504 form through the Department of State. This form must be submitted to the Department of State by the embassy / consulate of the diplomat minimum 10 days before the shipment arrives at the destination. 

Keep in mind that brokers are not authorized for customs clearance on CF-3299 entries for diplomats of foreign.

CBP Form 7501 – Customs Entry Summary

Customs and Border safety depends upon the CBP form 7501 “Customs Entry Summary” to know relevant information such as classification, appraisement, origin, and more regarding the imported items.  This document is needed by CBP to record the amount of tax or duty paid.

Form CF-6059B – Customs Declaration

Declare all your belongings in the Form CF-6059B for customs clearance. Any item which is dutiable or restricted should be declared via this customs declaration form for information to customs officers at the port. 

Copy of Bill of lading (OBL)

In order to confirm whether the goods have been delivered to the port in U.S., a copy of bill of lading is required. Primarily, it’s a bill or document that is the shipment agreement between the shipper and consignee.

Detailed inventory in English

A detailed inventory list must be prepared in English language at the time of packing to clear through customs and avoid taxes and duties to be paid on the goods.

Importers Security Filing (ISF)

It is crucial for agents in the origin country to ensure the ISF is filed on time for all ocean consignments before shipping of the vessel from the last foreign port to avoid penalties.

Food Questionnaire (Hawaii)

According to U.S. Customs, importation of food items is strictly prohibited so you must fill a food questionnaire if you’re importing food products.

Permit C – Household Goods Permit (Hawaii)

As alcohol and liquor are prohibited items when it comes to importation in U.S., you must complete the Permit C form for alcohol importation (Hawaii).