Importing Cosmetics

When importing cosmetics, the most important thing is to determine whether the product may also be considered a drug. If the importer makes any medical claims regarding the product, then it will be considered a drug. If it is a drug, importers likely will have much more difficulty importing the product. If it is only…

Importing toys and children’s products

All children’s products need to meet CPSC regulations. Specifically they need to meet CPSIA requirements regarding lead and possibly phthalate testing. (https://www.cpsc.gov/en/Business–Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Phthalates-Information/) Testing must be done by a CPSIA certified laboratory. This can be done either by the importer or the factory. Most importers ask the factory to contract out work with a certified laboratory in…

Importing Facial Masks

FDA will refuse entry for items that make medical claims. Ingredients are not as important as the labeling and marketing of the product. For example, if a facial mask has labeling making “anti-acne” claims or lists ingredients that “can balance oil secretion”, FDA will not allow the shipment to clear unless the labeling is removed.…

Importing Medical Devices

Medical devices imported into United States need to comply with FDA regulations. Prototypes for testing purposes do not need FDA registration.  When entering the United States, they need to be cleared by FDA before distribution for testing.  FDA may need a letter explicitly stating these products are testing prototypes not sold to the general public.…

What is “Chargeable Weight”?

Airlines determine freight charges by “weight”.  But imagine you’re shipping a pallet of styrofoam. Airlines, as well as ocean and ground carriers, have a way of analyzing density to determine if the gross weight or the “volume weight” is considered the “chargeable weight”.  IE.  Styrofoam would certainly use volume weight based on the formulas below.…

Importing Lasers

Laser are regulated by the FDA and subject to radiation control standards: Click here for more information The laser pointers in particular are watched carefully by the FDA: Click here for more information Importers should register their establishment with FDA. The manufacturer should also register their establishment and likely need to file a listing with FDA. If the…