# Prepare an import shipment so it clears customs without delays

A document checklist, candidate tariff classification reasoning, and broker questions so an import clears without delays or penalties.

- Topic: Legal & Compliance
- Framework: RTF
- Level: Standard
- Tags: Legal, Fill-in Template
- Source: https://www.thinkwithprompt.com/prompts/prepare-an-import-shipment-so-it-clears-customs-without-delays

## Prompt

```text
Help me prepare for importing a product so it clears customs smoothly.

**Product description:** [WHAT IT IS, WHAT IT'S MADE OF (% BY MATERIAL), WHAT IT DOES, HOW IT'S USED]
**Country of origin and where it's manufactured or substantially transformed:** [DETAILS]
**Importing country:** [COUNTRY]
**Shipment details:** [VALUE, QUANTITY, MODE, INCOTERM]
**Special features:** [BATTERIES, CHEMICALS, FOOD CONTACT, WIRELESS, DUAL-USE, WOOD PACKAGING]
**Trade agreements we might use:** [e.g. a free trade agreement - or "unsure"]

Give me:
1. A checklist of documents typically needed (commercial invoice fields, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, certificate of origin, permits, safety or conformity certificates) and what each must show.
2. Candidate tariff classification headings with the reasoning for each, based on material and function. Present these as options to confirm, not a final code.
3. Other regulatory agencies or requirements that may apply given the special features.
4. Valuation points to get right: assists, royalties, freight and insurance treatment, related-party pricing.
5. Whether a trade agreement could reduce duty and what proof of origin it would need.
6. Common reasons shipments like this get held, and how to avoid them.

This is general information, not a binding classification or legal advice. Mark every tariff code and duty rate [CONFIRM WITH BROKER], and recommend a binding ruling where the classification is uncertain. Do not invent rates or rules.

Also give me a list of questions to send my customs broker.
```

## What to fill in

- DETAILS
- COUNTRY
- VALUE, QUANTITY, MODE, INCOTERM
- e.g. a free trade agreement - or "unsure"
- CONFIRM WITH BROKER

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