Are you currently or planning to import alcoholic beverages into the United States? If so, you need a Customs Broker with experience handling these commodities to guide you through the process. We have helped new importers of alcoholic beverages get started as well as taken on clients currently importing and having problems and found solutions for them. We can help you too.
There is a fairly long lead time for new importers to obtain all the necessary permits, licenses, and labels certifications needed to begin importing alcoholic beverages. In general, it will take six to eight months from the time the first application is submitted until you can begin importing these products. We have successfully filed for and assisted with the filing of many of these for our clients, and we can help you.
The Federal Excise tax on distilled spirits in particular is substantial so most importers use Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ) to defer the payment of Customs duties and taxes until the products are withdrawn (cleared through Customs). Not all FTZs are licensed to handle alcoholic beverages so it is important to establish a relationship with one that is. We can help you with referrals.
Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) are secure areas under U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) supervision that are generally considered outside the Customs territory of the United States. Located in or near CBP ports of entry, they are the United States’ version of what are known internationally as free-trade zones. Foreign Trade Zone sites are subject to the laws and regulations of the United States as well as those of the states and communities in which they are located. In addition to duty deferment, there are a number of activities and benefits unique to Foreign Trade Zones that are not available in a bonded warehouse. We can help you determine if using a Foreign Trade Zone will benefit your business.
Importation of alcoholic beverages is a complex process. It is one where we can help you. Contact us to make an appointment for an initial consultation.
