The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is rolling out one of the most significant changes to import safety compliance in years. Starting July 8, 2026, electronic filing of product safety certificate data will become mandatory at the time of entry into the United States. A second mandatory date follows for goods entering through Foreign Trade Zones, taking effect January 8, 2027.
This move is part of CPSC’s broader effort to modernize its approach to product safety, enabling more efficient targeting, fewer shipment delays, and better protection for consumers. It also means that the days of submitting test certificates upon request are coming to an end.
If you import products regulated by CPSC—including everything from toys and electronics to appliances and furniture—this change directly affects you. And while the deadline may seem far off, preparing early gives your business a competitive edge: fewer compliance headaches, fewer cargo holds, and faster clearance.
In this post, we’ll break down what’s changing, how the new Product Registry works, and how to get ahead of the upcoming requirements.
What’s next?
To streamline compliance, CPSC has launched the Product Registry, where importers can:
- Create a free business account
- Upload certificate data for their imported products
- Receive a Product Code Version Number to be used by customs brokers during entry
Each time a product is retested, the product will need to be revalidated in the registry. Labs may also transmit data directly via API, reducing manual entry. Importers will have to provide their customs broker with the required data elements for entry from the product registry.
Best practices to consider
Get ahead of this massive process by collaborating early with your internal stakeholders, vendors, suppliers, labs, and clients on these changes.
To prepare for the upcoming changes, importers should:
- Identify products affected by the new requirements
- Understand the data filing specifications
- Ensure all required data elements are accessible
- Coordinate with customs brokers on data transmission methods
FAQs
Q: I’m unsure which of my imported products are regulated by CPSC.
A: Check this CPSC web page to see if your products are regulated by CPSC. Use CPSC's Regulatory Robot to determine applicable safety requirements for your products.
Q: What HTSUS codes are impacted?
A: CPSC has published a preliminary list in its eFiling Document Library. This list is subject to change and will be finalized by July 8, 2026.
Q: Should I participate in the voluntary pilot program today?
A: Yes. The voluntary pilot program will assist you in preparing your data and reviewing your processes before the July 8, 2026, deadline. To participate early in the process will put you ahead of your competitors in this area. An importer does not have to file every product you are importing but can start with a smaller product scope and expand overtime.
Q: How do I get my technical questions addressed on the CPSC Registry and these new requirements?
A: You can email CPSC directly at [email protected]. CPSC also hosts public bi-weekly office hours. Check their Public Calendar for an upcoming event. They also plan to host another interview session where importers and customs brokers share their experience and helpful information with the eFiling process.
Q: What can I provide my executive team to give them a high-level overview of these changes?
A: CPSC has provided this one page overview to communicate the timeline and changes coming. For the latest information from CPSC on eFiling, register to receive their eFiling Quarterly Newsletters and review prior ones.
Q: What are the benefits of this change and filing in the CPSC Registry?
A: CPSC has confirmed the benefits of this new requirement and participating early in this program will provide lower risk scores with compliance, fewer examinations, reduced hold times for compliant products, reduced costs for importers, and enhanced certificate data management process.
Q: How do I get started?
A: Be sure to communicate your interest in participating in this voluntary pilot program by registering for a business account for the CPSC Product Registry and discussing with your customs broker. Become familiar with the new process by reviewing the eFiling Quick Start Guide. CSPC also provides a variety of training videos including eFiling Voluntary Stage Introduction and an eFiling Participant Welcome Packet.
Need help getting started?
C.H. Robinson has been an active participant in the CPSC eFiling pilot for two years. We can guide you through the transition, helping you prepare early and maintain supply chain continuity in 2026.
Stay informed
Developments in customs and trade continue to evolve—stay informed to be prepared:
