This article was checked in September 2026. Rules and figures change, so confirm them before you act. We are not lawyers or tax advisers.
The short answer
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do samples pay US duty? | Usually yes, since the $800 exemption is suspended. |
| How do I avoid delays? | Describe each sample honestly, with its real value and origin. |
| Food samples? | They still need FDA prior notice. |
| Fastest option? | Keep samples in the US and ship them within the US in days. |
Key takeaways
- Agree items, sizes and costs with the buyer first.
- Label every sample with a product code and spec sheet.
- Pack samples like a real order.
- Follow up a few days after delivery.
Agree the details first
Before you send anything, confirm with the buyer which items, sizes and colors they want, and where to send them. Tell them up front if you charge for samples. Some exporters charge for samples and take the cost off the first order.
Label every sample
- Your product code on each item
- A short spec sheet: size, material, finish and packing
- The price and minimum order you quoted
- Your company name, email and phone number
A buyer may have samples from several suppliers on the same desk. Clear labels make sure yours are remembered.
Pack it like a real order
If you can, send the sample in the same packing the buyer will receive. It shows your quality from the first box. Protect it well so it does not arrive damaged.
Customs paperwork
Samples entering the US go through US customs like other goods. Your courier will ask for an invoice. Describe each item honestly and give its real value. Some products, such as food and medical devices, have extra US rules even for samples. See our customs guide and FDA guide.
Speed matters
A courier from Pakistan can take several days or longer, plus time in customs. A buyer who asked today may have moved on by then. Keeping a small stock of samples in the US means you can ship within the US in days.
Follow up after delivery
Track the parcel. A few days after it arrives, email the buyer to ask what they think. Ask what they would change. Their answers tell you how close you are to an order.
Duty-free samples
Some samples can enter the US duty free if each one is worth $1 or less, or is clearly marked, cut or damaged so it cannot be sold (US tariff heading 9811.00.60). Ask your courier or broker whether your samples qualify.
From Pakistan or from the US?
| From Pakistan | From a US stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery time | One to three weeks, plus customs | Usually 1 to 5 business days |
| Customs | Every parcel | Once, when the stock arrives |
| Cost per sample | Higher | Lower |
How we help
With our sample storage in Chicago, you keep samples at our office for $99 a month plus shipping at cost. When a buyer asks, we confirm with you, ship by UPS, FedEx or USPS, and follow up for feedback.
Want us to handle this for you?
We are a US office in Chicago for Pakistani exporters. We set up your US company, build your website and find US buyers. You sell to them directly.
Keep reading
Sales tipsHow to reply to a US buyer inquiry
Sales tipsWhat US buyers look for on your website
Getting startedExport to USA from Pakistan
Common questions
Do samples need to go through US customs?
Yes. Samples entering the US go through customs like any other goods. Declare their real value and describe them honestly on the invoice.
Can you store my samples in the US?
Yes. Our sample storage in Chicago is $99 a month plus shipping at cost. We ship samples to US buyers and follow up for feedback.
Should I charge for samples?
Many exporters charge for samples and take the cost off the first order. Tell the buyer up front.
Can buyers keep samples?
Usually yes. Treat samples as part of your sales cost.