For most retailers, the focus on trade compliance is usually on store merchandise. Most overlook the fact that the compliance of visual merchandise (furniture, lighting, store décor, etc.) is just as important if they are imported from overseas and the company/brand acts as the importer-of-record to those goods.

Assigning the proper HS code, making use of tariff preferences, identifying risks of non-compliance or opportunities for duty savings… all that applies to the regular merchandise are just as applicable to the visuals.

To some extent, the compliance risk of visual merchandise could be more significant due to the higher value, potentially shorter lead time and scarcer quantities of those items (if you are rushing for a store opening!).

Lighting fixtures, wooden furniture, and the like could also be subject to licensing requirements or anti-dumping cases that are not applicable to general merchandise.

Ensuring the company’s brokers and logistics team understands the customs implications of the visual items is essential to managing overall trade compliance. 

Contact us if you would like to see how Tradewin's trade compliance services can help.