Whether you are new to U.S. importing or navigating a specific challenge, this page gives you the information you need to move forward. KHI's licensed customs brokers are here to help at every step.
Reach out at 414-570-3550 or tap the button below to get a quote.
Section 1:
How to Become a Non-Resident Importer (NRI) in the U.S.
You do not need a U.S. address or U.S. business registration to import goods into the United States. Foreign companies and individuals can import as a Non-Resident Importer (NRI), also called a Foreign Importer of Record (IOR). Your rights are the same as any U.S.-based importer. So are your responsibilities. You must comply with all CBP regulations and submit accurate documentation for every shipment.
What You Need Before Your First Shipment
Two requirements must be in place before your goods can clear U.S. customs.
- A Customs Assigned Importer Number (CAIN). This is your unique identifier in CBP's system. It must appear on all import paperwork. Foreign importers who are not registered with the IRS obtain this number directly through CBP by completing Form 5106 at a U.S. port of entry. KHI can apply for your CAIN on your behalf.
- A Customs Bond. CBP requires a bond as financial security to ensure duties and taxes get paid on your imported goods. The bond amount depends on the value of your shipments and whether they are subject to duties. KHI handles bond procurement as part of our customs brokerage services.
To complete your NRI registration, you will need:
- A copy of your company's Certificate of Incorporation
- Government-issued ID for two authorized company officers
- Completed CBP Form 5106
- Krenz and Hannan will complete this electronically on your behalf upon your completion of our Power of Attorney
KHI submits these documents to CBP on your behalf and confirms when your importer number is active and ready for use.
One Important Note
Being a non-resident importer does not reduce your compliance obligations. You are fully accountable for the accuracy of your entry documentation and for paying all applicable duties and fees on time. Working with a licensed customs broker like KHI ensures those obligations are met correctly on every entry.
Section 2:
Finding the Right Customs Broker as a Foreign Importer
A licensed customs broker is not legally required, but importing without one significantly increases your exposure to delays, fines, and compliance failures. For foreign importers especially, a broker files your entries, communicates directly with CBP, and keeps your shipments moving.
Not all brokers have experience working with foreign importers of record. Here is what to verify before you commit.
CBP Licensing
Every U.S. customs broker must hold a valid CBP license. Verify this before signing anything. KHI holds CHB# 41358, issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and employees two licensed US Customs brokers with over 50 years of combined experience
Experience with Foreign Importers
Ask whether the broker has handled CAIN applications, foreign bond procurement, and CBP Form 4811 filings. These are specific to foreign importers. If a broker is unfamiliar with any of them, look elsewhere.
Commodity Knowledge
Brokers who know your product category understand the applicable duty rates, HTS classifications, and Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirements that apply to your goods. KHI provides HTS classification and compliance consulting as part of our import services.
Clear Communication
You are managing shipments across time zones, and possibly in a second language. Your broker needs to communicate proactively, flag issues before they become problems, and give you clear answers without requiring you to chase them.
Transparent Fees
Get a full breakdown of all charges before your first shipment. Understand what is included in the service fee and what is billed separately per entry.
How to Start
Contact KHI directly at 414-570-3550 or tap the button below to contact us online. We work with foreign importers across a wide range of industries and can walk you through the full registration and onboarding process before your first shipment arrives.
Section 3:
Getting Tariff Refunds as a Foreign Importer
If you overpaid duties or are eligible for an IEEPA tariff refund, the process for foreign importers differs from domestic ones. Without a U.S. bank account linked to an ACE Portal account, you cannot receive refunds directly from CBP. You must authorize your customs broker to receive refunds on your behalf.
The Key Form:
CBP Form 4811
Special Address Notification
CBP Form 4811 authorizes a designated agent, such as KHI, to receive notices of liquidation, bills, and refunds on your behalf as the Importer of Record. Without this form on file, CBP cannot process a refund to you.
As of February 6, 2026, refunds directed to a designated notify party are deposited electronically into that party's bank account. Only the current version of Form 4811 (dated 12/25) is accepted. Previous versions are rejected.
How to Submit It
You submit CBP Form 4811 by email to your assigned CBP Center of Excellence and Expertise. If you have not yet been assigned to a Center, submit it to the Center that aligns with the tariff number of your highest-valued commodity. KHI handles this submission process for our clients.
What to Expect After Filing
Once your CAPE Declaration is accepted by CBP, refunds are typically issued within 60 to 90 days, paid electronically to the designated bank account on file. Refunds also include interest on the duties recovered, so the amount you receive may exceed what you originally paid.
Do not wait. Liquidated entries must be claimed within 80 days of the liquidation date. Missing that window means forfeiting your refund entirely. If you are unsure whether your entries qualify, or if you need help completing and submitting CBP Form 4811, contact KHI at 414-570-3550. We are already working with clients to identify eligible shipments and make sure nothing is missed.