US import compliance requirements are about to change significantly for businesses moving regulated consumer products into the United States.
From 8 July 2026, importers will no longer be able to rely on holding product certificates offline or supplying them only when requested. Instead, compliance data must be submitted electronically to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before cargo can clear customs.
The new rules introduce mandatory electronic filing (eFiling) for Certificates of Compliance overseen by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), creating new administrative responsibilities for importers, customs brokers, manufacturers and overseas suppliers alike.
For businesses trading into the US market, preparation now is essential. Missing or incomplete data could lead to shipment delays, customs holds, examinations or refusal of entry.
Mandatory digital compliance filing begins on 8 July
The new CPSC eFiling programme requires certificate data to be transmitted electronically through CBP’s Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) for every applicable shipment entering the United States, including low-value and de minimis consignments.
Previously, importers could retain paper or PDF Certificates of Compliance and provide them only if requested by regulators. That process is now being replaced with real-time digital submission requirements linked directly to customs entry procedures.
The rules apply to all imported finished consumer products already covered by existing CPSC compliance requirements, including:
- Children’s products requiring a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC)
- General-use products requiring a General Certificate of Conformity (GCC)
- Products subject to mandatory CPSC safety regulations, bans or standards
Sectors likely to be heavily affected include fashion, retail, toys, consumer electronics, homeware, nursery products and household goods.
Two filing methods available to importers
Importers can choose between two methods of submitting compliance data.
Full PGA Message Set
Under this option, all certificate data is filed directly into ACE for every shipment. Required information includes:
- Product identifiers such as SKU or GTIN
- Applicable CPSC safety standards
- Manufacturing dates and locations
- Manufacturer or assembler details
- Testing dates and testing facility information
- Laboratory details
- Contact details for the party maintaining compliance records
This approach is generally more suitable for importers handling smaller product ranges or irregular shipments.
Reference PGA Message Set
For businesses importing the same regulated products regularly, the CPSC Product Registry offers a more streamlined alternative.
Product certificate information can be pre-registered in advance, allowing customs brokers to submit only:
- Certifier ID
- Product ID
- Certificate Version ID
This method can significantly reduce repetitive data entry and support faster customs processing.
Exporters also play a critical role
Although the legal responsibility for compliance sits with the US importer, much of the required information originates with the exporter or manufacturer.
In sectors such as fashion and consumer goods, exporters may hold key testing data relating to flammability standards, product labelling, chemical compliance and certification records. Without structured access to this information, US importers may struggle to complete mandatory filings accurately and on time.
As a result, exporters supplying the US market should now be working closely with their customers to identify which products fall within CPSC scope and establish reliable processes for sharing compliance documentation electronically before cargo departs.
Building this information exchange into standard shipping workflows will become increasingly important as enforcement begins.
Four practical steps businesses should take now
With the deadline approaching, importers should begin preparing immediately.
1. Review product classifications
Identify all products subject to CPSC regulations and confirm which certificates are required.
2. Register products where appropriate
The CPSC Product Registry is already open for self-registration and may simplify future filing requirements.
3. Audit existing certificates
Ensure current compliance documentation contains all mandatory data fields required for electronic submission.
4. Coordinate with customs brokers and logistics partners
Confirm brokers are ready to submit PGA message sets through ACE and establish clear responsibilities for data collection and transmission.
Supporting transatlantic compliance and supply chain coordination
For businesses managing regulated cargo flows into the United States, supply chain coordination is becoming increasingly data-driven as customs and compliance systems evolve.
Global Forwarding support UK and European exporters alongside our US import operations and brokerage services
By coordinating compliance information, shipment documentation and customs processes across origin and destination teams, businesses can reduce the risk of delays and disruption as the new eFiling requirements take effect.
Whether supporting fashion, retail, consumer goods or broader international trade flows, early preparation and accurate data management will be critical ahead of the July implementation deadline.
Useful resources
- CPSC eFiling Hub – official guidance and implementation resources
- CPSC eFiling FAQ – frequently asked questions and technical support information
