Author: Van Brunt Logistics & Warehousing

Shipping goods from India to the United States is a strategic move for many businesses looking to tap into one of the world’s largest consumer markets. But before your products hit American shelves or doorsteps, they must first pass through one of the most complex and heavily regulated customs environments in the world.

For Indian exporters and U.S. importers alike, understanding the customs process is essential for smooth, timely, and compliant international trade. Below is a breakdown of what you need to know when importing goods from India to the U.S.

1. Required Documentation for U.S. Customs Clearance

To clear customs in the U.S., your shipment must be accompanied by several key documents. Missing or incomplete paperwork can lead to delays, penalties, or even seizure of goods. Common required documents include:

• Commercial Invoice: Must detail the buyer, seller, item description, quantity, unit price, and total value.
• Packing List: Specifies the contents of each package for easy inspection and identification.
• Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill (AWB): Acts as a shipping receipt and outlines transport details.
• Import Security Filing (ISF): Also known as “10+2,” this must be filed with U.S. Customs at least 24 hours before goods are loaded onto the vessel bound for the U.S.
• Certificate of Origin: Sometimes required to verify the origin country, especially for duty calculation or trade agreement benefits.
• Customs Bond: A bond must be in place to cover the value of duties, taxes, and compliance assurance.
• Entry Manifest (CBP Form 7533) or Entry/Immediate Delivery (CBP Form 3461): Submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the time of entry.

2. Understanding Import Duties and Tariffs

Import duties are calculated based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification of the goods, the declared customs value, and the country of origin.

Key things to know:

• Duty Rates Vary: Depending on the product, U.S. duty rates may range from 0% to over 30%. Indian textile and apparel goods, for example, often carry higher tariffs.
• Additional Tariffs: Certain product categories may be subject to anti-dumping duties or additional tariffs under trade actions.
• Valuation Rules: CBP typically uses the transaction value — the price actually paid — as the basis for duty calculation. Ensure invoices reflect accurate pricing and terms.

3. Complying With U.S. Import Regulations

Beyond customs, your goods may be subject to additional regulatory scrutiny depending on the industry. Common agencies involved include:

• FDA (Food and Drug Administration): For food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
• USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture): For agricultural products and raw materials.
• CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission): For children’s products, electronics, and consumer goods requiring safety testing and labeling.
• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency): For chemicals, pesticides, and environmentally regulated materials.

Failure to meet agency standards can result in detention or refusal of entry — even if you’ve cleared CBP.

4. Customs Clearance Timing and Best Practices

Clearing customs typically takes 1 to 5 days, depending on the port, complexity of the goods, and completeness of your documentation. Delays are often preventable.

Best Practices:

• Work with an experienced Customs Broker or 3PL partner familiar with India-to-U.S. trade.
• Ensure all documents are accurate, consistent, and submitted on time.
• Use proper HTS codes to avoid misclassification penalties.
• Track your shipments proactively and communicate regularly with your logistics provider.

Partnering With a 3PL for U.S. Customs Success

Managing customs clearance from overseas can be overwhelming, especially for growing brands or first-time importers. That’s where a U.S.-based third-party logistics partner like Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics can make a significant difference.

We help streamline the process by:

• Coordinating with customs brokers and freight forwarders
• Ensuring timely documentation and compliance
• Receiving, storing, and fulfilling your inventory from our strategically located Northeast warehouse
• Offering transparent communication from port to final delivery

Ready to Simplify Your U.S. Import Process?
Whether you’re a seasoned Indian exporter or new to global trade, Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics is here to help. Contact us today to learn how our team can support your international supply chain — from customs clearance to last-mile delivery.

When your supply chain involves multiple transportation modes, you need a warehousing partner that can keep up. At Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics, we specialize in receiving and processing shipments arriving by air, land, and sea — all from our strategically located New Jersey facility. With direct access to ports, airports, and interstate highways, we help businesses move product quickly, accurately, and cost-effectively.

Strategic Location for Global Freight

Our warehousing operations are based near some of the busiest transportation hubs on the East Coast. From Newark Liberty International Airport to the Port of New York and New Jersey, our location puts us in the center of inbound logistics — making it easier to handle imports and domestic freight with speed and precision.

Receiving Time-Sensitive Air Freight

Air shipments require speed and efficiency. Our proximity to major international airports allows us to receive urgent or high-value air freight without delay. We quickly offload, inspect, and store these shipments so that your product can be moved into inventory and fulfilled without missing a beat.

Seamless Processing for Ocean Cargo

Sea freight continues to power global trade, and Van Brunt is built to manage containerized shipments from overseas manufacturers. Whether you’re importing full container loads (FCL) or less-than-container loads (LCL), our team is ready to handle port-to-warehouse transitions smoothly. We help you avoid demurrage, reduce wait times, and stay compliant with customs regulations.

Land-Based Freight with Nationwide Reach

For shipments arriving by truck or rail, our warehouse is conveniently located near major highways like I-95 and I-78. This ensures efficient ground transportation for B2B deliveries, retail distribution, or last-mile ecommerce fulfillment. We’re equipped to receive, unload, and process truckloads quickly — keeping your supply chain on schedule.

One Warehouse. Every Mode of Transport.

The true strength of Van Brunt lies in our ability to connect all modes of transportation into one cohesive warehousing and fulfillment system. Our team coordinates with freight forwarders, brokers, and carriers to minimize delays, reduce costs, and maintain clear communication from the moment your goods arrive.

Whether your cargo is arriving by plane, ship, or truck, Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics ensures it’s handled with care and efficiency. With over 30 years of logistics expertise and a prime location in the Northeast, we’re ready to support your growth with smart, scalable solutions.

Let’s talk logistics. Contact Van Brunt today to see how we can become your trusted warehousing partner — no matter where your shipments come from.

As your business grows, so do the complexities of managing your supply chain. From inventory management to order fulfillment and last-mile delivery, logistics can quickly become a bottleneck if not handled efficiently. That’s where a 3PL — or third-party logistics provider — comes in.

What Is a 3PL?

A 3PL provider is a logistics company that manages various aspects of your supply chain on your behalf. This can include warehousing, pick-and-pack fulfillment, freight shipping, returns processing, and more. By outsourcing these tasks to a logistics partner like Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics, companies can focus on scaling their core business while ensuring orders are fulfilled accurately and delivered on time.

Why Your Business Might Need a 3PL

If your business is spending too much time on logistics or struggling to meet customer expectations, it’s time to consider a 3PL. Here’s how working with one can help:

• Focus: Free your internal team to focus on product development, sales, and customer service.
• Scalability: Quickly adjust to seasonal spikes or rapid growth without needing to invest in new facilities or staff.
• Expertise: Leverage decades of experience and logistics best practices without building an in-house team.
• Efficiency: Reduce errors, lower shipping costs, and speed up delivery with optimized processes and technology.

Why Van Brunt Logistics & Warehousing

Located in the heart of the Northeast, Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics combines over 30 years of industry expertise with cutting-edge systems and a commitment to personalized service. Whether you’re an ecommerce brand, a food and beverage company, or a supplier to retail chains, we offer tailored solutions that drive performance across your supply chain. Ready to simplify your logistics?
Contact Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics today to find out how a 3PL partnership can help your business grow more efficiently.

Exporting goods to the United States opens the door to one of the largest consumer markets in the world—but it also comes with regulatory complexity. From customs clearance to storage logistics, understanding the process can help you avoid costly delays and ensure a smoother supply chain. Whether you’re shipping raw materials, finished goods, or e-commerce inventory, preparation is key.

Navigating U.S. Customs Requirements

Before your goods ever reach American soil, they must comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. This includes submitting accurate documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. In many cases, you’ll also need to identify your goods using the correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code and determine the applicable duties. Working with a licensed customs broker can streamline this process, reducing the risk of misclassification or documentation errors that can lead to fines or delays.

Storage and Distribution After Arrival

Once your shipment clears customs, you’ll need a plan for short-term storage or long-term warehousing—especially if your goods are arriving in bulk or require inspection before distribution. Many exporters use third-party logistics (3PL) providers that offer bonded warehousing near major ports like Newark, Savannah, or Los Angeles. Bonded warehouses allow you to store goods duty-free until they are officially imported or re-exported, offering a valuable cash-flow advantage.

Key Considerations for Storage in the U.S.

• Location: Proximity to ports, railways, and major highways can reduce final delivery times and costs.
• Bonded vs. Non-Bonded: Choose bonded storage if you want to delay duty payments or may re-export.
• Compliance: Ensure your warehouse partner complies with FDA, USDA, or other agency requirements if you’re shipping regulated goods.
• Technology: Look for facilities with inventory tracking systems that integrate with your ERP or e-commerce platform.

Final Tip: Plan for Scalability with VanBrunt

As demand grows, your warehousing and customs strategy should scale with it. Partnering with experienced logistics providers can help you adapt quickly—whether that means expanding to new markets, managing reverse logistics, or optimizing distribution across multiple states.

If you’re planning to export goods to the U.S., don’t leave customs and storage logistics to chance. Partner with a warehousing provider that understands the intricacies of international trade, bonded storage, and compliance. Our team is here to help you streamline the process, reduce costs, and ensure your shipments move smoothly from port to final destination. Contact us today to discuss your warehousing and logistics needs.

In an unpredictable global trade landscape, tariff fluctuations can have a major impact on your bottom line. Businesses importing or exporting goods must remain agile, especially when new duties or regulations are introduced with little warning. One of the most effective ways to stay flexible in a tariff-heavy environment is by leveraging short-term warehousing—particularly near major ports like Port NJ/NY.

Why Tariff Volatility Demands Flexibility – Tariff policies can shift quickly due to changes in government, international trade disputes, or evolving economic strategies. These changes can dramatically affect the cost of imported goods, leading to delays, increased expenses, and supply chain disruption. Short-term warehousing offers a strategic buffer, allowing you to respond to changes without being forced into immediate and costly decisions.

Short-Term Warehousing as a Strategic Holding Point – Short-term storage allows companies to pause and assess. By holding goods in a nearby facility, you gain valuable time to:

• Evaluate new tariff structures
• Delay customs clearance to avoid unfavorable duties
• Redirect products to different markets if needed

This type of warehousing gives you control over when and how your goods enter the market.

The Advantage of Bonded Storage – When stored in a bonded warehouse, imported goods can remain duty-free until officially released into the U.S. market. This means you can defer duty payments or even export products without incurring U.S. tariffs. In a volatile tariff environment, bonded short-term storage can significantly reduce your financial exposure.

Why Port Location Matters – Using a facility near a major port like Port Newark or Port Elizabeth allows for faster, more efficient movement of goods. You can quickly adapt your logistics strategy based on changing trade conditions, without the added burden of transporting goods long distances for storage or re-export.

Avoid Long-Term Commitments – Short-term warehousing offers flexibility without the need for long-term contracts. It’s an ideal solution for businesses managing seasonal demand, sudden inventory shifts, or navigating uncertain international markets.

Secure Flexible Storage with Van Brunt Logistics

At Van Brunt Logistics and Warehousing, we specialize in short-term and bonded warehousing solutions tailored to today’s trade challenges. Our strategically located facility near Port NJ/NY is designed to help you stay responsive, reduce costs, and manage risk effectively in a fast-changing tariff environment. Contact us today to learn how our flexible warehousing options can support your business in uncertain times.

In today’s unpredictable global trade environment, tariffs can shift quickly—sometimes with little warning—putting pressure on importers, exporters, and manufacturers to adapt on the fly. For companies navigating these changes, proximity to major ports like Port Newark and Port Elizabeth (Port NJ/NY) offers a distinct advantage. Warehousing near ports is more than just convenient; it’s a strategic asset in a tariff-heavy trade environment.

Reasons To Select a Strategically Located Warehouse in Port NJ/NY

Speed and Flexibility in Customs Clearance – Tariffs often come with increased scrutiny from customs authorities. When your warehouse is located near the port, goods can be stored quickly while awaiting inspection or clearance, avoiding unnecessary demurrage fees and costly delays. A nearby facility allows for rapid response to customs requests and enables you to adjust shipping or storage strategies in real time.

Bonded Warehousing Advantages – One of the most powerful tools in a tariff-heavy environment is the bonded warehouse. These secure facilities allow you to defer paying duties and tariffs until your goods leave the warehouse and enter U.S. commerce. For many businesses, this creates valuable cash flow flexibility. Port-adjacent warehouses that offer bonded storage give you the option to import goods without immediately paying fees—providing time to re-export, sell, or delay entry based on market demand and tariff changes.

Reduced Transportation Costs and Transit Times – When your warehouse is near a port, your supply chain becomes more efficient. You avoid inland freight costs that quickly add up, especially for high-volume or low-margin goods. Goods can be moved from ship to warehouse with minimal handling, cutting down on time and cost. In an environment where tariffs are already increasing landed costs, saving on transportation becomes even more critical.

Inventory Control and Forecasting Rapid changes in tariffs often require businesses to stock up on inventory ahead of increases or strategically hold goods before release. Warehouses near ports allow companies to respond quickly—stockpiling when needed or distributing with precision. Proximity to the port also means easier access to real-time shipping data, improving forecasting and inventory control during volatile trade periods.

Compliance and Risk Mitigation – Warehouses near ports are typically staffed with professionals who specialize in customs compliance, documentation, and international logistics. When the rules around tariffs and duties change, these teams are better equipped to help you stay compliant and avoid fines, penalties, or costly missteps. Working with a logistics partner in a port-side location ensures you’re not going it alone when the stakes are high.

Position Your Business for Success with Van Brunt Logistics

At Van Brunt Logistics and Warehousing, we understand the pressures businesses face in a constantly evolving tariff landscape. Our strategic location near Port NJ/NY allows you to store, manage, and distribute goods quickly and cost-effectively—while staying ahead of regulatory changes. Whether you need bonded warehousing, short-term storage, or full-service logistics support, we’re here to help you adapt and thrive. Contact Van Brunt Logistics today to learn how our port-side warehousing solutions can support your business in a tariff-heavy trade environment.