USMCA compliance checklist for shipments to the US

The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a trade agreement that came into effect in July 1, 2020, establishing rules for duty-free shipping between these three countries. Before shipping between the United States, Mexico, and Canada, you can follow this checklist to ensure your products are shipped in compliance with the USMCA.

Step 1: Check if your shipment into the U.S. is eligible for de minimis exemptions

As of May 9, 2025, imports from Canada and Mexico of up to $800 USD enter the United States duty-free (per importer per day). The Trump Administration has signaled, however, that this de minimis exemption is only temporary and may expire once relevant agencies implement systems to process such entries in the formal system.

In addition, shipments above the de minimis threshold but below $2,500 USD can benefit from reduced paperwork under informal entry procedures. However, regardless of the entry type, certain documents are essential for customs clearance under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) for packages above the $800 USD de minimis threshold. This checklist can help to prepare these shipments for zero or reduced tariffs under the USMCA.

Step 2: Determine tariff rate eligibility

Identify your product's Harmonized System (HS) code through the U.S. Census Bureau's Schedule B Search Engine. Check for zero or reduced tariff rates using the free trade agreement (FTA) Tariff Tool.

Step 3: Review "Rules of Origin" requirements

USMCA’s rules of origin are key to unlocking tariff benefits. They determine whether a product qualifies as “originating” in the USMCA region and can be imported duty-free or at a reduced rate. They also determine whether a good is exempt from special tariffs, such as those imposed in February-March 2025 under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

A product can be considered USMCA-originating in several ways, for instance, if it meets any of the following conditions:

Wholly obtained or produced in the USMCA region;
Produced entirely from originating materials; or
Produced with non-originating materials but meeting specific requirements, such as “tariff shift” rules.

Ensure that you have the necessary declarations or certifications from suppliers, especially if using third-party materials, to prove compliance with rules of origin. If your product is eligible under the rules of origin, then proceed to step 4.

Learn how to determine and add a product’s country of origin.

Step 4: Prepare documentation

To qualify for USMCA benefits, shipments must generally include the following documentation:

A customs entry form (for example, CBP form 7501) indicating that the items are USMCA-originating
A valid USMCA Certificate of Origin, completed by the exporter (more information on step 5)
A commercial invoice
A bill of lading or airway bill
A packing list
Any applicable permits, licenses, or certificates (for example, restricted goods)

Step 5: Create a "Certificate of Origin"

Complete a USMCA Certificate of Origin, detailing the following information:

Exporter and producer information
Description and tariff classification
Preference criterion
Coverage period for identical goods

The certificate of origin contains 9 data elements and a certification statement. You can find a Certification of Origin template on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.

In Mexico, commercial shipments need a customs invoice. Importers of textiles, apparel, and footwear must also register with the Official Register of Importers. In Canada, you must submit a customs invoice or its equivalent and Form B3-3 at the border.

Step 6: Prepare for origin verification process

Providing a USMCA certificate of origin doesn’t guarantee that customs will accept it without verification. Customs officials have the right to verify the origin of the goods to ensure compliance. This can involve questionnaires to the exporter/producer, site visits, and a detailed records review. Failure to qualify may result in duties, interest, or penalties.

Step 7: Ship your product and clear customs

The final step is securing the release of your goods from customs. Ensure smooth customs clearance by doing the following actions:

Filing entry documents
Paying duties, taxes, and fees
Undergoing examination/inspection if selected
Securing the release of goods

Ongoing: Record keeping

USMCA regulations require exporters to maintain detailed records of transactions and documentation for at least 5 years. This includes proof of origin, commercial documents, and any correspondence related to the shipment.

Regularly audit your USMCA documentation and processes to ensure ongoing compliance and to prepare for possible customs audits.

Resources

For more guidance and updates, refer to the following resources: