The United States is a huge market with opportunities for anyone looking to export products. If you’re a merchant or work in third-party logistics (3PL), knowing what items are in demand and how to ship them successfully can help you grow your business. At Terminal Africa, we have assisted in shipping many products and have insight into significant demand for certain products, which can guide you in choosing what to export to the USA.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top five items to export to the USA and offer tips on how to do so easily.
What are the top items exported to the USA?
1. Shipping Clothing to the USA
Fashion is a multi-billion dollar industry in the USA, and the demand for diverse clothing options is robust. Whether it’s trendy streetwear, high-end fashion, or cultural attire, American consumers have a wide range of tastes that present opportunities for merchants. Use sturdy, waterproof packaging to protect clothing from dirt and damage. Consider using garment bags for high-end items to keep them in perfect condition.
2. Shipping Skincare Products to the USA
The U.S. skincare market is booming, driven by a growing consumer focus on self-care and wellness. Products such as moisturisers, serums, sunscreens, and anti-ageing creams are particularly popular. Ensure all products meet U.S. regulations, including proper labelling, manufacturer's information and ingredient lists, to avoid customs issues. Double-check that all containers are sealed tightly and use leak-proof packaging to prevent spills. Use bubble wrap and ensure to label them with fragile stickers so that they’re handled with extra care.
Pro Tip: Check out our Guide on Shipping Skincare for more detailed tips on safely shipping these products.
3. Shipping Food Items to the USA
Various foods from all over the world are in high demand in the United States. In July 2024, Terminal Africa shipped over 5010kg of food internationally. Nigerians, especially, mostly eat their local meals even though they live abroad. Food can only be shipped if it’s properly dried. Use any suitable drying method to remove all moisture from your food. Shipping foods to the USA requires an FDA certificate. This document certifies that the food is commercially reasonable to be brought into the US.
Pro Tip: Read our Guide on Shipping Food to learn more about getting your food items to the U.S. safely and legally.
4. Shipping Hair Products to the USA
Hair care is a big business in the U.S., with demand for everything from shampoos and conditioners to wigs and extensions. Use bubble wrap or foam padding to protect hair products during shipping. Wigs and extensions should be carefully packed to maintain their shape. Ensure all hair products meet U.S. safety standards, especially if they contain chemicals or other regulated ingredients.
Pro Tip: Properly pack delicate items. Use our Guide on Shipping Fragile Items to learn more.
5. Shipping Bags to the USA
Bags are always in demand, from luxury handbags to everyday backpacks. The variety of styles and price points makes this category appealing to a broad audience. Use dust bags for luxury handbags and strong boxes to prevent crushing during transit. Fake bags are prohibited. Fast and reliable delivery options can make a big difference, especially for customers needing their bags for a specific occasion. Our live tracking option can give customers peace of mind, knowing where their bag is at all times.
Exporting to the USA can open up new opportunities for your business, especially if you focus on in-demand items like clothing, skincare, food, hair products, and bags. Exporting to the USA doesn’t require paying customs for packages valued at under $1,000. By following the shipping tips above, you can ensure that your products arrive in perfect condition, making your customers happy and encouraging repeat business.
Ready to ship to the USA? Sign up for a free Terminal Africa today to streamline your shipping process and ensure your products reach American customers quickly and safely. If you want to send your products nationwide across Nigeria, use this guide here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Shipping Various Products to the US
What are the most popular items to export to the USA?
The most popular items to export to the USA include clothing, skincare products, food items, hair products, and bags. These products are in high demand across different segments of the U.S. market, providing excellent opportunities for merchants.
How should I package clothing to ship to the USA?
To protect clothing during shipping, use sturdy, waterproof packaging. For high-end or delicate items, consider using garment bags to keep them in perfect condition. Proper packaging helps prevent damage from dirt, moisture, and rough handling.
What do I need to know about shipping food to the USA?
When shipping food to the USA, it’s essential to ensure the food is properly dried to prevent spoilage. You’ll also need an FDA certificate, which certifies that the food is safe and suitable for entry into the U.S. This document is crucial for smooth customs clearance.
Are there any special requirements for shipping skincare products to the USA?
Yes, skincare products must meet U.S. regulations, including proper labelling, manufacturer’s information and ingredient listings. It’s also important to use leak-proof packaging and bubble wrap to protect the products during shipping. Adding fragile stickers on the packaging can help ensure they are handled with extra care.
How can I ensure my products reach U.S. customers in good condition?
To ensure your products arrive in perfect condition, follow these key tips:
- Use appropriate packaging: Protect items like clothing, skincare, and hair products with sturdy, waterproof, and cushioned packaging.
- Comply with regulations: Make sure all products meet U.S. standards, especially food and skincare items.
- Choose reliable shipping options: Fast and reliable delivery, along with tracking options, helps ensure customer satisfaction and peace of mind.
