Importer & Exporter of Record Services in United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Not in every case. Some shipments may clear under the consignee’s details if all compliance obligations are met. However, for regulated products, bonded shipments, or non-U.S. entities, an IOR is required to assume legal responsibility.
Yes—if your company has a registered U.S. legal entity and the resources to handle CBP compliance, recordkeeping, and payment of duties/taxes. Without a U.S. entity, you must appoint a third-party IOR.
Standard clearance takes 1–5 working days depending on the shipment type, documentation accuracy, and whether goods require inspection or agency approval (e.g., FDA, FCC).
Generally no. A freight forwarder’s role is logistics and transportation, not legal liability. They can only act as IOR if they formally assume compliance responsibilities, which most do not.
