What goods are restricted from import or banned in the USA?

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The United States has strict rules about imported goods. These rules are in place to protect national security, public health, and the environment. Some items are completely banned from import because of laws or safety concerns. Other items are strictly restricted and can only be imported if certain conditions are met. International traders and individual buyers need to understand these rules. Otherwise, they could face fines or legal consequences for violations. The following content will introduce common types of prohibited and restricted imported goods in the United States and related requirements.

USA Customs Clearance Restricted And Prohibited Items for Import

Imported into the USA: Restricted Items List

Restricted items are goods that require specific laws, regulations, or conditions for legal entry into the United States. These items usually require licenses, certificates, or other necessary documents. These documents ensure that the items meet national security, public health, economic interests, and environmental protection requirements. If your item is restricted, don’t worry. Just submit the required documents to customs to make sure your package arrives at its destination.

The following is a list of currently restricted goods:

  • Health and Beauty
  • Nutritional and Dietary Supplements
  • Medicine and Drugs
  • Cosmetics
  • Dental Instruments (including toothbrushes)
  • Veterinary Products (including pet medicine or vitamins, dental instruments, etc)
  • Medical Items and Pharmaceuticals
  • Contact Lenses and Eyewear
  • Consumer Electronics
  • CD-ROMs, CD Players
  • Computers with CD/DVD drives
  • Microwave Ovens
  • Televisions with cathode ray tubes
  • Infrared Products
  • Chemicals
  • Tobacco Products
  • Wood and Wood Products – International Plant Protection Convention
  • Animal Products
  • Certain Food Items
  • Home and Living
  • Tableware

Imported to USA: List of prohibited items

  • CD-ROMs, CD Players
  • Computers with CD/DVD drives
  • Microwave Ovens
  • Televisions with cathode ray tubes
  • Infrared Products

How can restricted goods be imported into the United States?

What items are illegal to import into the US

If you want to bring restricted goods into the United States, follow these steps:

Understand the relevant regulations

  • Confirm whether the goods to be imported fall into a restricted category and check the specific requirements of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or other relevant agencies (such as the FDA, USDA, and ATF).

Obtain the necessary licenses or approvals.

  • Apply for the required licenses or certificates depending on the type of goods, e.g. FDA approval for food and drugs, USDA licensing for plant and animal products.

Prepare complete documentation

  • Provide accurate invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and the required licenses or certification documents.

You may want to know: What documents do I need for international shipping?

Work with a compliant freight forwarder

  • Find a professional international freight forwarder or customs broker to help with customs clearance and ensure the documents are complete and meet import standards.

You may want to know: How to Choose Best Freight Forwarder China to US

Submit a customs declaration

  • Fill out the import declaration documents as CBP requires and pay the corresponding duties and fees.

Accept inspection

  • Depending on the type of item, it may be subject to inspection by customs or other agencies to ensure compliance.

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