U.S. West Coast Ports of Entry: What You Need to Know

Imports coming from China, Japan and other countries arrive through several U.S. west coast ports of entry in the United States each year. We have the information you need about west coast ports of entry so your imports arrive quickly and efficiently.

Most Popular U.S. West Coast Ports of Entry

U.S. west coast ports of entry are primarily found in California. The busiest ports of entry in California are:

• Los Angeles International Airport-Cargo Operations
• Los Angeles/Long beach Seaport
• Palm Springs
• Sacramento
• San Bernardino International Airport
• San Diego
• San Francisco
• San Francisco International Airport

Other U.S. west coast ports of entry exist in the states of Oregon, Washington and Arizona. View a list of ports and contact information for each port to find the information you need for the U.S west coast port of your choice. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also offers a port of entry locator to find the port that suits your import process entry needs as an importer.

Popular Commodities Passing Through U.S. West Coast Ports of Entry

Popular commodities passing through U.S. west coast ports of entry include:

• Electronics
• Computers and computer equipment
• Automotive parts
• Plastic
• Clothing
• Fuel and oil
• Industrial supplies and materials

Western Countries Importing Goods to the United States

Some of the top countries seeking to import goods to U.S. west coast ports of entry include:

• China
• Japan
• Canada
• Mexico
• Brazil
• Colombia
• Chile

Port of Entry Codes

Four digits make all the difference. The CBP has a four-digit classification code that classifies all U.S. ports of entry with a valid district/port code. A

complete listing of CBP port codes can help you determine your port correctly.

At ports of entry, CBP officers are assigned to review imports, collect duties and enforce all U.S. import and export laws and regulations.

U.S. Importing Laws and Regulations

The CBP will be closely enforcing laws and regulations for all of your imports and import paperwork. Due to Customs import and documentation requirements, most importers choose to have their imports handled by Licensed Customs Brokers. The import document paperwork includes:

• A commercial invoice that lists the purchase price, country of origin and tariff classification of your items
• A packing list detailing your imports
• A bill of lading that lists goods in the form of a receipt
• An arrival notice from the U.S. agent