Required Certificates& Import Permits
Missing documentation is one of the top reasons for customs holds and delays. Know which certificates your products need before you ship.
Why Certificates Matter
Shipments without required documentation can be held indefinitely, returned to origin, or destroyed at your expense. Penalties may also apply. Always verify requirements before shipping.
Common Certificate Types
Phytosanitary Certificate
Plants, seeds, fresh produce, wood products
Confirms products are free from pests and diseases. Required for most plant-based imports.
Tip: Must be obtained from the exporting country's plant protection authority.
CITES Permit
Wildlife products, exotic leather, certain woods
Required for products from endangered species. Both export and import permits needed.
Tip: Applies to over 38,000 species. Penalties for violations are severe.
Certificate of Origin
All goods (for preferential duty rates)
Proves where goods were manufactured. Required for free trade agreement benefits.
Tip: Different formats required for different trade agreements (e.g., EUR.1, Form A).
Safety Certifications
Electronics, toys, cosmetics, food
Proves products meet safety standards (CE, UL, FCC, etc.).
Tip: Standards vary by destination country. US, EU, and Australia have different requirements.
Certificates by Product Category
Requirements vary by destination country. This is a general guide.
Food & Beverages
- Health Certificate
- Phytosanitary Certificate
- FDA Registration (US)
Electronics
- FCC Certification (US)
- CE Marking (EU)
- RCM (Australia)
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- FDA Registration (US)
- CPNP Notification (EU)
- TGA Notification (AU)
Toys & Children's Products
- CPSC Certification (US)
- CE + EN71 (EU)
- AS/NZS ISO (AU)
Textiles & Apparel
- Flammability Testing
- REACH Compliance (EU)
- Care Labeling
Medical Devices
- FDA 510(k) (US)
- CE Marking (EU)
- TGA Registration (AU)
How AI ShipMate Helps
When you classify your products with AI ShipMate, we flag potential certificate requirements based on the HS code and product characteristics.
- CITES alerts for animal and plant products
- Phytosanitary requirements for agricultural goods
- Safety certification guidance for electronics and toys