USMCA Tariff Relief for Imports From Mexico
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
General
Key takeaways
USMCA offers a clear path to avoid the 25 % tariffs on human specimen imports when they meet the rules of origin.
Importers must submit a valid Certificate of Origin (COO), which may be single-use or blanket for up to 12 months.
U.S. Customs may audit claims; keeping accurate documentation is vital.
Mercury offers specialized logistics that help life-science companies stay compliant and focused on their core work.
How to Claim USMCA Benefits for Human Specimen Imports
Importers face rising trade costs due to new U.S. tariffs on goods from Mexico. However, the USMCA allows importers to avoid those extra charges if shipments meet origin rules.
These rules ensure that human specimens imported from Mexico qualify as originating goods. Importers must prove that shipments began in Mexico and comply with detailed USMCA origin regulations.
The key to saving on tariffs lies in correctly completing and maintaining Certificates of Origin.
Understanding the Certificate of Origin (COO)
The Certificate of Origin is a critical document that enables duty-free treatment. It can be issued by the producer, exporter, or importer.
COOs must include the required data elements outlined in Annex 5 of the USMCA, which can be attached to an invoice or issued separately.
Choosing a blanket COO simplifies recurring shipments. A single certificate can cover multiple identical shipments, reducing paperwork—valid for up to 12 months.
Importer Obligations and Risk Management
Importers must exercise due diligence when claiming preferential treatment. CBP may audit documentation, and mistakes can lead to costly penalties.
Key compliance steps include:
Verifying origin with thorough documentation.
Filing accurate COO and retaining records for at least five years.
Correcting errors promptly to avoid enforcement action.
Recent U.S. Tariff Developments
In early 2025, the U.S. imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada. Only goods compliant with USMCA were exempt—for a limited time (until April 2, 2025).
To leverage this exemption, importers must use specific HTSUS codes when declaring USMCA-qualified goods.
Businesses without proper COO or origin documentation faced the full tariff burden.
Mercury’s Role in Supporting Your Compliance
Mercury helps life-science firms navigate tariff rules and maintain smooth logistics. We handle the complexities so your team can do what matters most.
Expert Certification Management
We assist with COO completion and ensure certificates include all required data elements. We help maintain accuracy and compliance.
Blanket COO Coordination
We set up and manage blanket certificates to reduce paperwork and support recurring shipments.
Audit-Ready Documentation
Mercury ensures your paperwork is well-organized and accessible. We help you retain records for audit periods and respond quickly to queries.
Tailored Logistics Strategy
Our logistics plans keep your supply chain efficient and compliant, minimizing risk and maximizing reliability.
Final Thoughts
USMCA provides a strategic way to avoid hefty tariffs on human specimen imports from Mexico. Proper COO usage and documentation remain essential for tariff relief. Tariff exemptions may be temporary, so companies must stay vigilant and compliant.
Let Mercury help you streamline compliance and focus on innovation in life sciences. Contact us today and trust your logistics to experts who keep your operations secure and efficient.
