Country of Origin

Generally, Country of Origin is the country where a specific item was produced, manufactured, grown or mined. This includes the last country where a specific item was materially changed or altered to become what it is being sold as. "Material change" is something more than just packaging, cosmetic changes, basic assembly or other minor processes. The specific definition of Country of Origin can vary from country to country (for instance, some countries define the origin as the place where the most value was added to the item). It is often denoted by labeling on an item as a "Product of" or "Made in" followed by a country name. However, it does not include country of design or "Designed In" markings, and it is specific to a physical item.

One way to find the Country of Origin is to physically inspect the item for labeling or markings that state the item is a "Product of" or was "Made in" a particular country. Retailers may also contact the supplier or manufacturer of a particular item and inquire about its Country of Origin.

Providing inaccurate CoO information about a product can have various consequences, including inaccurate calculation of duties, delays in clearing customs, inadmissibility of an product for importation and non-compliance with filing requirements.

Providing accurate Country of Origin information for each product you sell not only is required, but also is important and beneficial to your business for several reasons. Providing accurate country of origin information helps ensure correct calculation of duties and taxes, help avoid delays in clearance time and give your customers more knowledge on the products you are selling.