This fictitious US manufacturer, Let's Pretend Business, expanded their business. To do so, they began to import new goods into the United States.

You don't have to run for cover, we've got your back. Let us help you understand what an HTS is and what it means for your imports.  What is the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS, or HTS, and sometimes referred to as HS or Harmonized System)?

All goods imported require classifying. By classification, we mean that every product is assigned a number - that number has different sections separated by a period. Each section means something different.

Transportation costs are a big expense for companies, and this trend is only growing. Last year, a record $1.5 trillion was spent on the movement of goods. Companies are looking for creative strategies to get the best Return on Investment (ROI) on their shipments.

Importing restricted products into the U.S. is achievable. With certain documentation, companies can ensure their goods clear U.S. Customs at the port of entry.

Some items are not permitted into the United States under any circumstances. These goods are often referred to as "prohibited items." Importing such products is illegal, resulting in sharp penalties and other costly consequences.

Finding your way around US Customs compliance isn't easy. There are many regulations and laws to abide. Sometimes you detect errors on your entries, and they must be corrected right away. Submitting a prior disclosure is not only the best way, but maybe the only way to communicate to CBP as you detect errors.