An informal entry is a simplified customs entry process available for commercial shipments valued under $2,500 that do not require filings with any partner government agency (PGA). Unlike formal entries, informal entries do not require a customs broker, do not require a customs bond, and involve significantly less paperwork. They are filed using CBP Form 7501 with reduced documentation requirements.
Why It Matters for Importers
Informal entries offer a faster, less expensive path through customs for low-value commercial shipments. The reduced requirements — no bond, no broker mandate, simplified documentation — make them accessible to small businesses and individuals importing samples, prototypes, or small commercial orders. Duties are still assessed and collected, but the process is streamlined.
However, the $2,500 threshold and PGA exemption create important boundaries that many importers misunderstand. If your product requires FDA, USDA, EPA, CPSC, or any other agency clearance, it does not qualify for informal entry regardless of value. Similarly, certain product categories (textiles, footwear, and goods subject to antidumping/countervailing duties) require formal entry even below $2,500.
Key Details
- The $2,500 threshold is based on the fair retail value in the country of shipment, not the transaction price.
- Informal entries are typically processed the same day, whereas formal entries can take longer depending on examination and PGA review.
- No customs bond is required, but duties and applicable merchandise processing fees must still be paid.
- Informal entries are not subject to liquidation — the duty assessment at time of entry is final.
- Goods subject to quota, antidumping orders, or countervailing duty orders always require formal entry.
When to Use a Formal Entry Instead
As your import volume grows beyond occasional small shipments, transitioning to formal entries with a licensed customs broker becomes both practical and necessary. Formal entries provide the compliance infrastructure needed for ongoing import operations, including classification consistency, record-keeping, and duty drawback eligibility.
If you are importing for the first time and trying to determine which entry type applies to your shipment, our first-time importer guide walks through the process step by step.