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Step-by-Step Process for Export to USA – Complete Guide for Indian Businesses

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Financial Analyst

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Step-by-Step Process for Exporting to the USA

Step 1: Obtain Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)

IEC is mandatory for exporting any product from India.
Apply on DGFT portal with PAN, bank details, and basic business KYC.

Key Documents Required:

  • PAN Card
  • Aadhaar / Business Registration
  • Bank Certificate / Cancelled Cheque

Step 2: Understand U.S. Market Requirements

Before exporting, ensure your product meets all U.S. safety and regulatory standards.

Industry-Specific Requirements:

  • Food items: FDA registration + US Agent
  • Cosmetics: FDA voluntary compliance + ingredient declaration
  • Electronics: FCC compliance
  • Toys: ASTM, CPSIA safety norms
  • Textiles: Fiber labeling rules

Research via:

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • FDA (for food, cosmetics, supplements)
  • FTC (labeling guidelines)

Step 3: Select Your Product and Pricing Strategy

Perform cost analysis including:

  • Manufacturing cost
  • Compliance certification
  • Freight charges
  • Export incentives (RoDTEP)
  • U.S. duty rates (HSN-based)

Analyze demand through:

  • Amazon USA
  • Walmart Marketplace
  • US wholesale buyers
  • B2B distributors

Step 4: Determine the Correct HS Code and Duty Structure

Identify the HS Code for your product and verify the U.S. import duty rate on the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) portal.

This ensures:

  • Correct classification
  • Predictable customs cost
  • Avoidance of penalties

Step 5: Complete Documentation for Export

Standard export documentation includes:

  1. Commercial Invoice
  2. Packing List
  3. Shipping Bill (filed via ICEGATE)
  4. Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
  5. Certificate of Origin (if required)
  6. Insurance Certificate
  7. Compliance Certificates (FCC/FDA etc.)

Step 6: Choose Your Shipping Method

Air Freight: Fast, suitable for urgent shipments and lightweight items.

Sea Freight: Cost-effective for bulk shipments.

Choose between:

  • LCL (Less than Container Load)
  • FCL (Full Container Load)

Also decide the Incoterm (FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.) based on buyer requirement.

Step 7: Packaging and Labeling as per U.S. Requirements

U.S. Customs checks labeling thoroughly.

Mandatory Labeling Elements (varies by product):

  • Manufacturer details
  • Product description
  • Fiber content (for textiles)
  • Safety warnings (toys, electronics)
  • Country of origin: “Made in India”

Ensure packaging is export-grade and ISPM-15 compliant for wooden materials.

Step 8: File Shipping Bill on ICEGATE and Complete Customs Clearance

Your freight forwarder will help submit documents to Indian Customs.

Once cleared, cargo is loaded and shipped to the USA.

Step 9: U.S. Customs Clearance (CBP)

When goods arrive in the USA:

  • CBP reviews commercial invoice + HS code
  • Ensures product meets U.S. safety standards
  • Applies applicable duties

If compliant, goods are released for distribution.

Step 10: Delivery to Buyer / Amazon FBA / Warehouse

You may deliver to:

  • Buyer’s warehouse
  • Amazon FBA fulfillment centers
  • U.S. distributor
  • Third-party logistics provider (3PL)

Keep communication open with buyer to ensure timely delivery.

Step 11: Claim Export Benefits in India

Eligible schemes:

  • RoDTEP (Rebate on Duties and Taxes on Exported Products)
  • GST Refund / LUT Export
  • Drawback (if applicable)

Your accountant or compliance team must file claims within deadlines.

Final Tips for Successful Export to USA

  • Always verify compliance before shipment
  • Maintain good relations with freight forwarders
  • Keep documentation accurate
  • Perform regular competitor research
  • Ensure strong quality control

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need an FDA registration to export to the USA?

Only if you export food, medical devices, cosmetics, OTC drugs, or supplements.

2. Can I export to Amazon USA directly?

Yes. You can ship from India to Amazon FBA after meeting labeling and packaging requirements.

3. How long does customs clearance take in the USA?

Typically 1–7 days depending on compliance and documentation accuracy.

4. What are common reasons for shipment rejection?

Incorrect labeling, FDA non-compliance, missing documents, or wrong HS code.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only. Regulations, documentation requirements, and compliance processes may change based on updates by DGFT, CBP, FDA, and other authorities. Businesses should consult certified professionals before acting on any guidance provided here. Saving Mantra is not liable for any decisions made based on this information.

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