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United States
Houston, Texas — US Gulf Coast gateway
The world's largest import market, served through Houston: the Gulf Coast hub for energy, petrochemical, project and heavy-lift cargo, with deep inland reach across the southern US.
Key gateways
- ▸Port Houston (largest Gulf Coast container port; energy and project cargo)
- ▸Houston George Bush Intercontinental (IAH air cargo)
- ▸Inland rail and trucking corridors across Texas and the South
- ▸Other US gateways served through our partner network
Importing basics
- ▸Importer of record needs a customs bond; entries file through a licensed customs broker via ACE.
- ▸Tariff exposure has shifted repeatedly in recent years — check current measures for your goods and origin before pricing.
- ▸Low-value (de minimis) duty-free entry has been substantially curtailed; parcel-based models should re-verify current treatment.
- ▸Partner-government agencies (FDA, USDA, FCC, DOT) attach to many categories — flag them at classification time.
Exporting basics
- ▸Most exports file Electronic Export Information through AES for shipments over USD $2,500 per Schedule B line.
- ▸Export controls (EAR/ITAR) demand screening for dual-use and defense-related goods.
- ▸USMCA certification lets Canadian and Mexican buyers import qualifying goods duty-free.
Core documents
- ▸Commercial invoice & packing list
- ▸Customs bond (continuous or single-entry)
- ▸B/L or AWB
- ▸USMCA certification where claimed
- ▸PGA documents per product (FDA prior notice, etc.)
Tips from our United States desk
- →Houston is the right gateway for oversized, heavy-lift and energy-sector cargo — the port and local handling capability are built for it.
- →Gulf routings can beat West Coast options for southern and central US destinations once inland cost is counted.
- →Hurricane season (June–November) belongs in your risk planning for Gulf routings.
General guidance, not advice for a specific transaction — regulations and tariff measures change. Confirm current requirements for your goods with our team or official sources.
Ready when you are