GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 18, 2026

U.S. Customs Preference Regime

Importers shipping goods into the United States can take advantage of preferential duty rates when their supplier countries qualify under one of the applicable U.S.

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Last updated: 18 June 2026Published: 22 November 2025

Source: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/programs-administration/trade-agreements

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Logistics Concept

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Definition & Explanation

Importers shipping goods into the United States can take advantage of preferential duty rates when their supplier countries qualify under one of the applicable U.S. preference programs. The U.S. customs preference regime covers programs such as the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries and free trade agreements including USMCA, each granting reduced or zero duties on eligible goods. Qualification typically requires meeting rules of origin and submitting the appropriate origin documentation to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This is distinct from Foreign Trade Zones or bonded warehouses, which defer duties through a spatial mechanism rather than granting a permanent rate reduction based on origin. Applicability depends on the goods' HTS classification, the country of origin, and the current status of the relevant program.