Navigating international shipping, customs regulations and tariff rates can be complex, but you don’t have to handle it alone. This page provides essential guidelines and contact information for managing University imports and exports. The resources below will help ensure your goods arrive safely and without unnecessary delays.
Imports
Importer of Record
The Importer of Record is the party responsible for ensuring that imported goods comply with all customs and legal requirements of the country of import. The Importer of Record is a registered business entity in the importing country, and it is typically the owner or purchaser of the goods at the time of import. As a regulatory matter, no department, college, unit or employee of the University should ever be identified as the Importer of Record. Only the "Regents of the University of Minnesota" has the necessary corporate existence under state and federal lay to act as Importer of Record. A specific unit or employee may be identified as part of the contract of address/delivery information, but cannot be the Importer of Record.
Under the University’s standard purchase order terms and conditions, the University is the Importer of Record by default due to the Free On Board (FOB) Incoterm, and we typically authorize and pay a customs broker, such as DSV, to act as our agent for customs matters.
If the University will be the “Importer of Record” in the text portion of your Purchase Order (PO), insert the following statement:
"When equipment is ready to ship, please contact our Import Export Broker by email at [email protected]."
Purchasing Services recommends that you use DSV as the customs broker. A fee is required for their service, but their expertise can save an inexperienced importer both time and money in the long run.
Tariffs
Changes to U.S. tariff rates may create uncertainty and confusion for University units procuring whole goods, parts/components, raw materials, and other items from suppliers outside the U.S. Review the Q&A document or contact the Controller’s Office for additional assistance as needed ([email protected]). As a reminder, purchasers are responsible for any additional expenses incurred as a result of tariffs during shipment when the University is the Importer of Record.
Customs
The University of Minnesota has one main agent for customs clearance: DSV. In general, DSV will handle large, bulky shipments valued at over $1,250, but may be able to handle smaller shipments as well. In some cases, a foreign supplier/exporter will advocate for the use of its own customs broker, rather than DSV. Please be aware that using the services of a customs broker with which the University does not have an existing relationship may result in additional complications, delays and costs at time of import into the U.S.
Contact Information
DSV
Phone: (651) 452-8840
Email: [email protected]
Website: dsv.com/en-us/
Additional customs guidance available.
Exports
When exporting equipment or goods that may require federal authorization–especially pathogens, plasmids derived from pathogens, novel materials, or sensitive gear or electronics–consult with Export Controls and Research Security personnel in the Research & Innovation Office. They will help ensure that shipments comply with federal export control regulations.