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As we previously communicated, the U.S. government is currently working to implement Executive Order 14411 on Strengthening Customs Enforcement. The executive order directs government agencies to develop new rules for U.S. imports. Now, a new rule for foreign importers of record is under government review and could be implemented quickly.
While nothing changes for you today and your current import operations continue as usual, we strongly recommend that you take the time to review your customs arrangements and prepare now.
What’s changing?
The executive order proposes different requirements depending on how an Importer of Record (IOR) is classified. Your IOR — the person or company officially responsible for importing your goods into the United States — determines how you may be affected. If your IOR is classified as a foreign entity under the future rules, additional customs requirements could apply. If your IOR is US-based, you will likely face fewer changes than sellers using a foreign-based IOR.
How to prepare
- Confirm your IOR status. If you use a freight forwarder or customs broker, contact them and ask: “Is my Importer of Record a U.S. entity or a foreign entity?” (If you’re not sure who your freight forwarder is, check your shipping service agreement or logistics contract)
- Review your current arrangement. If your IOR is a foreign entity, ask your freight forwarder: “How are you preparing to meet the new requirements for foreign importers—including asset, bonding, and good-standing provisions?” If they're uncertain or still working through the details, we recommend that you explore your options now so you can make changes in the event the rules take effect quickly.
For more information on the proposed criteria and what the potential changes could mean for you, go to Understand How U.S. Import Regulatory Changes May Affect You.
We’ll continue to share updates as implementation details become available. For official regulatory updates, you can also visit U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The Amazon Services team