Importing pet products to the US
In the US, duty is assessed on the transaction value of the goods, which usually excludes international freight. On top of the base duty come customs fees, and for Chinese-origin goods additional duties that change often. Origin marking and state-level chemical rules also matter.
How duty is calculated
US duty is generally a percentage of the transaction value of the goods, which is the price actually paid for them and normally excludes the cost of international freight and insurance. The rate depends on the tariff line, and similar products can fall under different lines. The candidate lines and rates in our calculator come from the official schedule, with the source and date shown.
Additional duties on Chinese goods
Goods made in China can be subject to extra duties on top of the base rate. These come from several programs, change often and depend on the exact tariff line. We do not compute them, because a wrong figure is worse than none. Instead the calculator marks them as not included and lets you enter the rate your broker gives you.
Customs fees
Formal entries pay a merchandise processing fee as a percentage of the entered value, within a minimum and maximum that are reset every fiscal year, and sea shipments also pay a harbor maintenance fee. Small shipments below a set value can use an informal entry. Current figures, with their dates, are in the landed cost guide.
Entry and importer of record
Someone must be the importer of record and file the entry. For a formal entry that normally requires a customs bond. A broker or forwarder usually arranges it. Decide before you order who will do this.
Marking and labelling
Imported goods generally have to be marked with their country of origin in a conspicuous place. Agree the marking in your specification so the factory applies it, and check packaging and labels for any other requirements for your product type.
Chemical and product rules
California's Proposition 65 requires warnings in some cases, and sellers commonly assess it for products with plastic, metal or coated components. Other state rules can apply, and some products have their own requirements. Our compliance checklist gives starting points, not legal advice.
Wood packaging
Wooden pallets and crates used for shipping generally need to be treated and carry the ISPM 15 mark. Ask the factory to confirm, or use plastic or cardboard pallets.
Next steps
Use the landed cost calculator for an estimate, then send a sourcing request and we will include the landed cost in your brief.
Frequently asked questions
Is there VAT in the US?
There is no federal VAT on imports. State sales or use tax may apply when you sell, which is outside our calculator. Ask an accountant about your situation.
Do I need a customs broker?
Most importers use one. For larger shipments a broker files the entry, helps with classification and, where needed, a customs bond. Ask for their fees in advance.
Why is the duty so hard to predict?
Because there is a base rate for the tariff line, and then extra duties that depend on origin and policy and can change within months. Ask a broker for the rate that applies on the day you ship.
Related reading
- Landed cost from China to the US, UK and EU
What makes up the landed cost of pet products imported from China into the US, UK and EU: duty, fees, VAT, freight, and what a calculator cannot know. - Safety claims and test reports
How to read supplier test reports and decide which safety claims you can make about pet carriers, strollers, car restraints, bowls and mats. - How to source pet products from China
A step-by-step process for sourcing private-label pet products from China: define the product, request quotes, test samples, check suppliers, order and ship. - Pet carrier bags and backpacks
What to specify when sourcing soft-sided pet carriers and backpacks in China: fabric, base, hardware, sizing, customization, testing and the main cost drivers.
General information for planning. Not legal, customs or compliance advice. Requirements depend on your exact product and market.