If your company seeks new market opportunities through global trade, you’ll need to start thinking about the impact of the International Tariff. In the United States, the International Trade Commission sets the tariffs that are currently in place and enforces compliance with them.

Small and large businesses alike, trading goods and services internationally, use International Tariff schedules as a means of assessing their brand’s readiness for foreign trade. The schedules help business owners identify restrictions and other duties placed on imports. Researching International Tariff schedules and understanding their impact on trade helps you plan effective strategies for entry into the international market:

1. Get the official International Tariff information and schedules that the United States International Trade Commission makes available.

2. Seek International Tariff advice from a market professional.

3. Reach out to an International Tariff Consultant that specializes in helping small businesses.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Access the latest International Tariff schedules approved by the federal government

The International Tariff schedule has changed over time. The latest one, issued on January 1, 1989, replaced all previous versions.

I recommend: Tariff Information Center explains how goods included in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule are described. By Chapter, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is the comprehensive listing of the most recent edition of the harmonized tariff schedule. Check out the Simplification of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States for the latest developments about efforts to improve the International Tariff schedule.

Employ the services of an International Tariff expert

With an International Tariff consultant, you'll get the personalized assistance your company needs to identify market opportunities and create a market strategy.

I recommend: UPS Tariff Consulting provides current data regarding the trade regulations affecting the International Tariff schedules. Contact UPS Supply Chain Solutions identifies the offices you may contact for personal assistance with international tariffs.

Hire a consultant for International Tariff assistance for your small business

Business consultants provide special International Tariff assistance to small businesses focusing on foreign markets. They inform of recent opportunities and outline the issues affecting a small business' decision to trade internationally.

I recommend: Pennsylvania Small Business Development Centers puts you in touch with an expert who will guide your company’s expansion into the global market. You can locate one of these offices at Pennsylvania SBDC Locations. Review the website of the Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department of Commerce to determine whether you need a Commerce Export License.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Most International Tariff consulting firms also assist companies in the United States who must comply with trade regulations imposed by European governments.
• •  Before deciding to sell globally, most companies first seek expert opinions on whether their product is safe to sell internationally.