U.S. Customs and Border Protection oversees the import of products to the United States to ensure they are permitted. Types of products that are prohibited from being brought into the country include, but are not limited to:
- Dangerous toys
- Illegal substances, such as Rohypnol and absinthe
- Bush meat
- Cars that do not provide occupants with ample protection
- Dog or cat fur
Products that may be permitted to be imported (some are outright prohibited), but that may require a license or extra inspection to do so, include:
- Firearms
- Fish and wildlife
- Hunting trophies
- Pets
- Plants and seeds
By the same token, some countries prohibit or restrict the export of what they consider to be protected goods, including:
- Religious artifacts
- Furs
- Ivory
- Counterfeit goods, such as designer purses and clothing
Before investing in products for import, consult a licensed customs broker to help ensure you are permitted to bring the products into the United States. A broker can also help you obtain any necessary licenses and calculate any taxes and duty fees that will need to be paid when the products enter the country.
