If you are seeking to engage in the business of importing alcoholic beverages into the United States, you should be aware of the rules and regulations that apply, and the special permits that are required. 

Any company considering importing distilled spirits, wine, or malt beverages into this country must apply for an Importer’s Permit. Do not hesitate, consult with one of our import specialist, we are here to stay with you during the process.

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Beverages Labels
As a business planning to sell alcohol, you are also required to comply with federal labeling regulations and obtain a certificate of origin that states: A) the country where the alcohol is produced, and B) the age of the alcohol as well as the percent of alcohol in the beverage. 

Labels used on alcoholic beverages must be pre-approved by the Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to obtain a Certificate of Label Approval (COLA).

Wine importing has special requirements particularly if the wine is produced after December 31, 2004. These products have certain certification requirements to ensure that the producer used adequate winemaking procedures.

For some countries, the TTB will accept a statement of competent wine-making procedures from the importer. This is known as a “Self-Certification.”

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Beverages Taxes
All alcoholic beverages pay a Federal excise tax. This amount differs because excise taxes are not uniform throughout the country and depend on the product, as well as on Federal, state, and city regulations.

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Once you’ve made your first shipment, the following ones are easier. After all, you will have all the permits and paperwork ready, and going forward, you will be set for all of your other alcoholic beverage shipments.

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Call us and make an appointment with us, at Garcia Barrett Tax Consulting for your convenience all our staff is bilingual.