USMCA Tariff Benefits: Save 10%+ on North American Imports
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USMCA-qualifying goods from Mexico and Canada are exempt from the 10% Section 122 surcharge. On a USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) is the single most powerful tariff reduction tool available to US importers in 2026. Qualifying goods from Mexico and Canada are exempt from the 10% Section 122 surcharge — a massive advantage that most other countries don't have.00,000 shipment, that exemption is worth USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) is the single most powerful tariff reduction tool available to US importers in 2026. Qualifying goods from Mexico and Canada are exempt from the 10% Section 122 surcharge — a massive advantage that most other countries don't have.0,000 — before factoring in any MFN or Section 232 savings. Most importers with North American suppliers are not using this benefit to its full potential.
What USMCA Saves You
💰 Savings Example: $50,000 Electronics Shipment from Mexico
In brief
- →USMCA exempts qualifying goods from Mexico and Canada from the 10% Section 122 surcharge
- →Product must meet specific rules of origin — not just be shipped from North America
- →You must file a USMCA claim (CBP Form 434) to receive the exemption — it's not automatic
- →Section 232 tariffs (steel, aluminum, autos) still apply even with USMCA qualification
Without USMCA: 2.5% MFN + 10% Section 122 = 17.5% → $8,750 in duties
With USMCA: 2.5% MFN only = 2.5% → $1,250 in duties
USMCA savings: $7,500 per shipment (86% less duties)
How to Qualify for USMCA
Products must meet rules of origin — meaning they must be substantially manufactured in North America. Simply shipping a Chinese product through Mexico doesn't qualify. The key tests are regional value content (typically 40-75% of value must originate in North America) and tariff shift rules (components must be transformed into a different product classification).
Step 1: Determine if your product's HTS chapter has a specific rule of origin under USMCA Annex 4-B.
Step 2: Obtain a USMCA Certificate of Origin from your supplier.
Step 3: Have your customs broker file the USMCA preferential claim on your entry summary.
Common USMCA Mistakes
Not filing the claim: Your broker won't automatically apply USMCA rates. You must request it and provide the certificate of origin.
Assuming all Mexico/Canada goods qualify: Products made with substantial non-North American components may not meet rules of origin.
Not getting the certificate: Without a valid certificate of origin, CBP will deny the preferential rate even if the product qualifies.
Compare USMCA vs Non-USMCA Rates
Tariff Comparison Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
Does USMCA eliminate all tariffs?
No. USMCA eliminates the 10% Section 122 surcharge for qualifying goods. MFN base duties still apply. Section 232 tariffs (steel, aluminum, autos) also still apply regardless of USMCA.
Can I ship Chinese goods through Mexico to avoid tariffs?
No. USMCA requires products to be substantially manufactured in North America. Transshipping Chinese goods through Mexico is illegal.