Start by naming the importer of record (IOR), not just the delivery contact. The IOR, importer number, broker authorization and bond arrangement are separate checks. A warehouse willing to receive the cargo does not establish that the import setup is ready.
Questions to answer before departure
Who is the Importer of Record, and who can authorize the broker and answer customs questions?
Do the description, use, material, model, quantity, value, origin and photos agree?
What supports the proposed classification and valuation?
Could CBP or another US agency require additional information?
What appointment, liftgate, forklift or unloading conditions apply at the final address?
The buyer, importer of record and receiving warehouse may be different parties
An importer number identifies the responsible importing entity. Ask the importer and broker to resolve any mismatch in the legal name, address or registration details before filing. CBP: importer numbers
CBP distinguishes single-entry and continuous bonds. Confirm the arrangement and its applicability with the importer, broker or surety contact. A customs bond is not cargo insurance or proof that duties have already been paid. CBP: obtaining a customs bond
Get each answer from the party who can verify it
- Manufacturer or China seller: Provide function, materials, model, manufacturer, quantities, transaction value and origin support. A sales description such as “equipment” is not a usable technical file.
- Importer and customs broker: Confirm the IOR identity, importer number, authorization, bond and entry setup. Determine which product-agency records are relevant to the actual goods.
- Receiving warehouse and delivery team: Confirm the ZIP code, appointment, receiving hours, unloading equipment and named receiving contact. Delivery readiness is a different question from import readiness.
Separate a usable cargo file from a confirmed import setup
Record models, quantities, value and the actual address as known facts. Keep the IOR, bond status, classification and any agency requirements on the open-items list until confirmed. An unresolved critical item means the route remains conditional—not a promised release date or final tax amount. Appointing a provider does not remove the importer’s reasonable-care responsibility. CBP: reasonable care and supporting records
Turn the review into an execution list
Name the import contacts
Identify the seller, buyer, importer, consignee and customs broker, with a contact for each role.
Build a clear cargo profile
Use the model, function, materials, photos, quantity and value to explain exactly what is shipping.
Review the entry requirements
Check the classification, value, origin and any other agency requirements before departure.
Set out the delivery scope
Agree how duties, examinations, storage, appointments, unloading and changes to shipment information will be handled.
Useful records for the first review
- Commercial invoice, packing list and transaction background
- Product sheet, materials, use, model, nameplate and photos
- Importer, consignee and broker-authorization details
- Available test reports, certificates, labels or agency records
A short email checklist for the importer
Copy these points into your shipment file. Leave unknown items open and name the person who will confirm each one.
- IOR legal name, address and document contact: ____
- Importer number and broker authorization: ____
- Bond type, status and applicability to this entry: ____
- Product use, model, materials, value and origin: ____
- Missing product-agency records and their owner: ____
- Delivery address, appointment, unloading and quote exclusions: ____
US customs and delivery planning · What an all-in quote does—and does not—cover
What the logistics plan cannot replace
A broker or logistics provider can assist with preparation and filing, but the importer remains responsible for accurate classification, valuation, origin and admissibility information.
Scope and content review
Pre-shipment planning for commercial cargo from China to the United States. Entry arrangements, product controls and applicable bond requirements must be confirmed with the importer and filing team.
Content owner: Meiya Baitong (Xiamen) International Supply Chain Co., Ltd. · Reviewed
This review: Added separate IOR, importer-number and bond checks, with document owners and a practical handover checklist.
Requirements can change. Confirm the current rule and its applicability before shipment; this page is a planning guide, not an authority decision on your cargo.
Sources for further verification
Requirements should be checked against the responsible authority, the importer and the actual filing arrangement at the time of shipment.