How to Import Furniture into the US

Importing furniture into the U.S. requires careful navigation of customs regulations, safety standards, and documentation. Whether you’re a business or an individual, understanding these rules is crucial to avoid costly delays, fines, or the seizure of your goods. This guide breaks down the essential requirements for a successful import process.

U.S. authorities enforce strict rules on furniture imports to protect consumers, the environment, and domestic industries. Compliance is not optional.

For any furniture containing wood, the Lacey Act is your primary concern. This law mandates that you declare the exact species and country of harvest of the wood. Its purpose is to combat illegal logging globally. You must submit a Lacey Act Declaration (Form PPQ-505) for most wood products. Using illegal timber can result in severe fines and the seizure of your entire shipment.

Lead paint is completely banned on furniture sold in the U.S., with a particular focus on children’s items. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) enforces a strict limit of 90 parts per million (ppm) for lead in surface coatings. You must have third-party test reports from accredited labs to prove compliance. There are no exceptions for antiques or vintage items intended for sale.

Composite wood materials like plywood, MDF, and particleboard must comply with EPA Formaldehyde Standards (TSCA Title VI). These materials must be certified to meet specific emission limits, often aligned with CARB Phase 2 standards. Your supplier must provide the proper documentation.

Commercial vs. Personal Imports: A Critical Distinction

The rules differ significantly based on whether you are importing for resale (commercial) or for your own use (personal).

Commercial Imports

• Definition: Furniture intended for resale or business use.

• Bond Required: Yes, for any shipment valued over $800.

• Compliance: Full adherence to all Lacey Act, CPSC, and EPA rules is mandatory.

• Documentation: Extensive paperwork is required, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and compliance certificates.

• Customs Broker: Highly recommended to navigate the complex entry process.

Personal Imports

• Definition: Furniture for your own household use, not for resale.

• Key Benefit: You can import goods valued up to $800 per person per day without paying duties.

• Simplified Process: Documentation is less burdensome, and a customs bond is not required.

• Important Note: While safety standards are less stringently enforced for genuine personal use, items containing prohibited materials (like lead-painted antiques) can still be denied entry.

Why a Customs Broker is a Strategic Partner

For commercial importers, a licensed customs broker is an invaluable asset. They act as your expert guide through the regulatory maze.

A broker’s expertise ensures your furniture is classified under the correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code, which determines your duty rate. A simple misclassification can lead to overpaying by thousands of dollars or trigger a compliance audit.

Beyond classification, brokers manage the submission of all required documents to CBP and Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) like the USDA and CPSC. They can also help you leverage duty-saving programs under free trade agreements like USMCA.

Essential Steps and Common Pitfalls to Avoid

A successful import strategy is built on preparation and vigilance.

Your Documentation Checklist:

• Commercial Invoice (declares value and origin)

• Bill of Lading (proof of shipment)

• Packing List (itemizes contents)

• Lacey Act Declaration (for wood)

• CPSC Test Reports (for lead and flammability)

• EPA TSCA Certification (for composite wood)

Critical Mistakes That Will Cost You:

• Misclassifying HTS Codes: Calling a “sofa” a “chair” can change your duty bill significantly.

• Skipping the Lacey Act Declaration: This is a top enforcement priority and leads to immediate fines.

• Assuming “Antique” Means Exempt: Lead paint bans still apply, and improper documentation can lead to seizure.

• Using Non-Compliant Packaging: Wood pallets and crates must be heat-treated and stamped according to ISPM-15 standards to prevent pests. Otherwise, your entire container may be rejected at the port.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Importing Furniture into the U.S.

Successfully importing furniture requires careful planning and adherence to U.S. regulations. Follow this structured guide to ensure a smooth process, avoid costly delays, and maintain full compliance.

Step 1: Determine Your Import Type and Basic Requirements

First, you must classify your shipment as either Personal Use or Commercial. This distinction dictates the rules, duties, and documentation required.

For Personal Use (Household Goods):

• Duty-Free Allowance: You can import goods valued at $800 or less per person per day without paying duties or taxes.

• No Bond Required: A customs bond is not necessary for personal shipments.

• Simplified Paperwork: The process is generally simpler than for commercial goods.

For Commercial Use (For Resale or Business):

• Customs Bond Mandatory: A single-entry or continuous bond is required for all shipments valued over $800.

• Full Duties Apply: You must pay all applicable duties and taxes based on the product’s value and classification.

• Detailed Documentation: Strict compliance with all regulations is enforced.

Using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for commercial imports. They manage complex paperwork, ensure correct duty payments, and navigate regulations on your behalf.

Step 2: Identify and Comply with Key U.S. Regulations

This is the most critical step. Failure to comply can result in seized shipments, destruction of goods, and significant fines.

Wood & Plant Material Regulations

• The Lacey Act: This is a primary concern.

  • What it requires: A declaration form (PPQ-505) identifying the genus, species, and country of harvest of any wood used.

  • What it bans: Trade in illegally logged wood (e.g., certain rosewood, teak).

• ISPM 15 Standard: All wood packaging materials (pallets, crates) must be heat-treated or fumigated and marked with an official stamp to prevent pest introduction.

Product Safety Regulations

• Lead Paint Ban (CPSC): The Consumer Product Safety Commission bans lead paint on all furniture, especially children’s items. Third-party testing reports are often required for commercial imports.

• Formaldehyde Standards (EPA): Composite wood products (plywood, MDF, particleboard) must comply with emission standards (TSCA Title VI) and be certified as meeting CARB Phase 2 or equivalent requirements.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documentation

Having the correct paperwork ready is essential for customs clearance. You will need:

• Commercial Invoice: Declares the value, description, and origin of the goods.

• Bill of Lading: The contract with the shipping carrier; serves as proof of shipment.

• Packing List: Details the dimensions, weight, and contents of each package.

• Lacey Act Declaration (PPQ-505): For any furniture containing wood.

• Safety Certificates: Such as CPSC test reports and EPA TSCA certification, as applicable.

Step 4: Calculate and Plan for Costs

Understand all potential costs beyond the price of the furniture itself.

• Shipping: Costs vary by method (air cargo, shared container, full container).

• Duties: The rate depends on the furniture’s HTSUS code (e.g., wood furniture is typically 0-5%). A broker is invaluable for correct classification.

• Insurance: Ensure coverage for the full value of your shipment during transit.

• Broker Fees: If you use a customs broker, their fees will be an additional cost.

• Bond Cost: For commercial imports, factor in the cost of the customs bond.

Step 5: Arrange Shipping and Customs Clearance

• Choose a Shipping Method: Select a freight forwarder and shipping method that balances cost, speed, and security for your items.

• Engage a Customs Broker: Your broker will submit all required documentation to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) through the ACE system.

• Pay Duties and Fees: Your broker will facilitate the payment of all calculated duties, taxes, and fees to CBP.

Step 6: Final Inspection and Delivery

• Be Prepared for Inspection: CBP or partner agencies (USDA, CPSC) may inspect your shipment for compliance. If it fails, you may face treatment orders, re-export demands, or seizure.

• Receive Your Goods: Once cleared, your furniture will be released for final delivery to your address.