Carrier request

DHL, FedEx, UPS, or a freight forwarder asking for CPSC documents: what now?

If a carrier or shipping partner asks for CPSC documents, clarify whether they need all certificate details, Product Registry ID numbers, or a customs broker.

Audience: Small importers receiving CPSC document requests from parcel carriers, freight forwarders, or brokers.

Check if my shipment is affected View sample packet

Ask what the PDF represents

A carrier request may be shorthand for certificate data needed by a broker or entry-filing process.

Ask whether they need all certificate details in spreadsheet fields.

Ask whether they need Product Registry ID numbers.

Ask whether they need Certifier ID, Product ID, and Version ID.

Confirm who files the CPSC data

Use the packet with the carrier, broker, or trade partner who will handle the required CPSC import data. If that path is unclear, confirm the filing partner before shipment arrival.

Confirm who is Importer of Record.

Confirm whether Section 321 shipments can be handled if applicable.

Confirm the deadline for final certificate data before entry.

Contact a licensed customs broker when the filing path needs confirmation.

Use the request as context

Carrier names describe common request patterns. Follow your actual carrier, broker, or forwarder instructions.

Use carrier names only to understand the type of request you received.

Follow your actual carrier, broker, or forwarder instructions.

Keep your certificate records source-backed and reviewable.

Copy-ready assets

Templates you can adapt

Carrier reply

Subject: Re: CPSC documents requested for [Tracking/Shipment]

Hi [Carrier/Freight Forwarder Name],

We are preparing CPSC data for this imported product. Please confirm whether your request means:

1. All certificate details for customs filing,
2. Product Registry ID numbers,
3. A draft CPC/GCC PDF for review, or
4. A customs broker requirement because your team cannot file CPSC import data.

Please also confirm your cutoff time and preferred spreadsheet or document format.

Thanks,
[Importer Name]

Questions to ask your freight forwarder

Can you file CPSC import data?
Do you need all certificate details, Product Registry ID numbers, or both?
Do you need Certifier ID, Product ID, and Version ID?
Can you handle this if it is Section 321/de minimis?
Who is Importer of Record?
What data format and deadline do you require?
If you cannot file CPSC import data, should we appoint a licensed customs broker before entry?
Once a broker is found, should we provide product ID, CPSC rules, testing/lab records, records contact, and Product Registry ID numbers?

Mini FAQ

Common questions

Why would a parcel carrier ask for CPSC documents?

The request may come from an entry-filing process, broker review, or carrier policy. Clarify the exact data path before sending only a PDF.

How should I use carrier-specific examples?

Carrier names describe common user scenarios only. Follow the instructions from your actual carrier, broker, or forwarder.

Next step

Generate a carrier clarification email and broker-ready packet.

Check if my shipment is affected