Author: Van Brunt Logistics & Warehousing

Pakistan continues to be a valuable sourcing partner for U.S. importers, especially in industries like textiles, leather goods, medical instruments, and home décor. For businesses bringing cargo into the United States from Pakistan, understanding the logistics, customs process, and required documentation is essential to avoid costly delays and ensure smooth delivery.

Understanding Transit Options from Pakistan

Most cargo from Pakistan moves by ocean freight, with the ports of Karachi (Port Qasim and Karachi Port Trust) serving as the country’s primary gateways. These shipments typically pass through the Suez Canal and across the Atlantic before arriving at the Port of New York and New Jersey. Transit times can range from 30 to 40 days depending on the carrier and routing.

Air freight is also an option for time-sensitive shipments, with major U.S. arrival points including JFK and Newark airports. While faster, air freight is significantly more expensive and best reserved for high-value or urgent items.

Required Documentation for Customs Clearance

To clear U.S. Customs smoothly, every shipment from Pakistan must be accompanied by the proper documentation. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the transaction, a packing list outlining the shipment contents, and a bill of lading issued by the carrier. Importers must also submit an Import Security Filing (ISF) — commonly known as the “10+2” — to U.S. Customs at least 24 hours before the vessel departs Pakistan.

Other required items may include a customs bond, a certificate of origin (if needed), and any delivery instructions or arrival notices from the freight forwarder.

U.S. Customs Process at Port NJ/NY

Once your shipment reaches the Port of New York and New Jersey, it goes through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) clearance process. Customs officials assess the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code, declared value, and country of origin to determine duties and verify compliance.

Many products sourced from Pakistan — especially textiles and apparel — have specific labeling, documentation, or tariff requirements that must be followed closely. Working with an experienced customs broker or a logistics provider can help navigate this process efficiently.

What Happens After Clearance

After clearance, your goods must be transported from the port to a warehouse for storage or fulfillment. That’s where Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics becomes a valuable partner. Located near the Port of NJ/NY, we offer drayage services, container unloading, inventory storage, and full-service order fulfillment.

By keeping your cargo close to its port of entry, you save time, reduce inland freight costs, and ensure faster delivery to East Coast markets.

Partnering with a Trusted Logistics Provider

Shipping from Pakistan to the U.S. involves many moving parts — but with the right logistics strategy and warehousing partner, the process can be smooth, scalable, and profitable. Van Brunt Warehousing & Logistics is here to help you take the complexity out of international shipping and position your business for success.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your shipments from Pakistan and streamline your East Coast distribution strategy.

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.