Additional documents may be required based on the commodity type, destination, parties involved and desired services.

When shipping internationally to the United States, special case documents can include:

• Certificate of Origin or Manufacturer’s Affidavit
• Power of Attorney with any agents
• Licenses, permits, carnet, letters of credit or certificates

Access a Comprehensive List of Shipping Documents

In addition to clearance and entry processes with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP), other government agencies may require additional reporting and clearance including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS).

FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION / www.fda.gov

DHL requires a Power of Attorney (POA) for shipments over $5,000 for:

• Food (also subject to Prior Notice requirements)
• Pharmaceuticals (limited on personal importations of prescription drugs)
• Medical equipment (including glasses and sunglasses)
• Radiation emitting devices (including microwave ovens, televisions, monitors and lasers)
• Cosmetics
• Alcoholic beverages

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE / www.usda.gov

DHL requires a Power of Attorney (POA) for shipments over $5,000 for:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Plants and flowers (phytosanitary certificates required)

FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE / www.fws.gov

DHL requires a Power of Attorney (POA) for shipments over $5,000 for:

• Non-domestic plants and animals
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) certificates are required for endangered species

For more information about importing, access the the DHL U.S. Import Industry Guide