Industrial Machinery Import Clearance — All US Ports
Customs clearance and logistics for industrial equipment, manufacturing machinery, and project cargo.
What You Need to Import Machinery & Industrial Equipment to the USA
Importing machinery & industrial equipment requires compliance with regulations from the CBP, EPA, and UL. Here’s what you need to know before your shipment arrives.
Required Documents
Key Agencies
Duty Considerations
Common Challenges for Machinery & Industrial Equipment Importers
Complex HTS Classification
Industrial machinery has complex HTS codes based on primary function. Misclassification results in incorrect duties and potential penalties.
Oversize Cargo Logistics
Large equipment requires flatbed or breakbulk shipping, port handling equipment, and over-dimensional transport permits. Our team coordinates project cargo end-to-end.
EPA Engine Emissions
Engines above certain horsepower thresholds require EPA Tier 4 emissions certification. Non-compliant engines face CBP refusal.
How FreightClear Handles Machinery & Industrial Equipment Imports
- Upload Your Documents — Share your commercial invoice, bill of lading, or packing list. Our AI extracts everything instantly.
- We Classify and File — FreightClear classifies your HTS codes, files your ISF, and prepares your CBP entry.
- Your Goods Are Released — Our licensed US customs broker manages CBP release and arranges last-mile delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What duties apply to machinery imports from China?
Most industrial machinery is duty-free under US tariff schedules, but Section 301 tariffs of 7.5–25% apply to most Chinese-origin machinery.
Do I need special permits to import industrial machinery?
Depending on the machinery type, you may need EPA emissions certification, UL or equivalent safety certification, and in some cases import licenses.
How do I import oversize machinery to the USA?
Oversize machinery requires specialized ocean freight (breakbulk or RoRo), port handling, and over-dimensional trucking permits. Our project cargo team handles end-to-end coordination.
What is Section 232 and does it apply to my machinery?
Section 232 imposes 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum imports. If your machinery contains significant steel or aluminum components, these tariffs may apply.
Ready to Import Machinery & Industrial Equipment to the USA?
FreightClear is a licensed US customs broker. We make imports simple — from document upload to delivery.