Marking of Containers
The current rule, summarized for quick review and linked back to the source when you need the full text.
Current rule summary
Plain-English answer
Containers holding imported goods must be marked with the country of origin of their contents. "Usual" containers (those in which products reach the final buyer) have different marking rules than "unusual" ones (like decorative vases or reusable vessels), and empty containers being filled later may be excepted from individual marking under certain conditions.
Who it applies to
Importers and sellers bringing containers and goods into the United States
Key requirements
- Filled usual containers must show country of origin of contents unless contents are individually marked and containers can be easily opened for inspection
- Empty usual containers shipped in outer cartons marked with origin are excepted from individual marking
- Unusual containers (like decorative vases or reusable vessels) must be marked with their own country of origin when filled, plus contents origin if different
- Adhesive labels are allowed but not recommended—they may come loose, leaving you responsible for remarking the merchandise
Why it matters
Improper or missing country-of-origin marking can result in costly remarking expenses and customs compliance issues at the border.
Source support
Short official text that grounds the summary above.
May adhesive labels be used? Labels may be used in some instances, but this is not a recommended form. Often labels become loose due to weather, unsatisfactory adhesive, or other conditions. If this happens, the importer may be subject to the expense of remarking the merchandise. Marking of Combined Articles An article that is to be combined with another article in the United States but which will retain its identity and will not undergo a change in origin must be marked "(Name of imported article) made in...
Related lines from the official page
Extra official context tied to this rule.
Usual containers imported filled must be marked with the name of the country of origin of the contents of the usual container, unless the contents are marked with the country of origin and the usual containers can be readily opened for inspection of the contents. Usual containers imported empty to be filled may be excepted from individual marking if they reach the person or firm that will fill them in a carton or other container marked with the country of origin. Unusual containers imported empty, to be filled in the United States, must be marked "Container made in (country)."
What is a usual container?
The container in which an imported article will ordinarily reach the ultimate purchaser. Usual containers or holders are not required to be marked with their own origin when imported filled. Usual containers, which are goods from a NAFTA country, are not required to be marked with their own origin, whether or not filled.
What is an unusual container?
- These may include containers not ordinarily sold at retail with their contents, or containers which have further use or value after their contents are consumed.
Unusual types of containers must be marked to indicate their own origin when imported filled, in addition to any marking required to indicate the origin of their contents. For example, a vase made in France containing candy made in England must be marked: "Vase made in France, candy made in England."