Furniture Import Regulations USA: A Practical Guide

If you’re planning to bring furniture into the United States, the first thing you need to know is that the process isn’t a mystery. It’s a set of clear rules that, once understood, become easy to follow. Below we break down the most important points, from tariffs to paperwork, so you can avoid delays and extra costs.

Understanding Tariffs and Duties

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) classifies furniture under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Each material—wood, metal, plastic, glass—has its own code and duty rate. For example, solid wood dining tables usually sit around 2.5% duty, while upholstered sofas can be as high as 8% depending on fabric content. These rates can change with trade agreements, so it’s wise to check the latest HTS updates before shipping.

Besides the basic duty, the U.S. may apply anti‑dumping or countervailing duties if a foreign producer is found to be selling at unfair prices. Those extra fees are listed on the CBP website under “Special Measures.” If your supplier is from a country with a free‑trade agreement, you might qualify for reduced or zero‑rate duties—just have the proper certificate of origin ready.

Key Documentation and Compliance Steps

The paperwork is the backbone of a smooth import. The minimum you’ll need includes the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and a CBP entry form (usually the CBP Form 7501). If your furniture contains wood, you also need a phytosanitary certificate and a statement that it meets the USDA’s ISPM‑15 standard, which prevents pest infestations.

Another often‑overlooked document is the “Marking and Labeling” requirement. The U.S. wants every imported item to have a clear label showing the country of origin, manufacturer, and any safety certifications (like flame‑retardant standards for upholstered furniture). Missing or incorrect labels can trigger a hold at the port.

Customs brokers can handle the entry filing for you, but you should still double‑check their work. Errors in HS codes or undervalued invoices can lead to penalties or even seizure of the goods. A quick tip: keep an electronic copy of every document and match the numbers on the invoice with those on the bill of lading before the shipment leaves the factory.

Don’t forget about state‑level regulations. Some states, like California, have stricter chemical safety rules (California Proposition 65) that require additional disclosures for certain finishes or adhesives. If you’re shipping to multiple states, confirm each one’s requirements to avoid last‑minute surprises.

Finally, consider the logistics side. Choose a carrier that offers customs clearance support and can handle freight classification accurately. Many large carriers have online portals where you can upload documents in advance, reducing the time your cargo spends in customs.

In short, the key to hassle‑free furniture imports into the U.S. is preparation: know your HTS code, gather the right certificates, label correctly, and work with a reliable broker. Follow these steps, and your furniture will move from the ship to the showroom with minimal fuss.