US Import Arrival Notice: What the Buyer Should Do When It Arrives
What should an importer do after receiving an arrival notice?
Start with the exact product and shipment
An arrival notice is a planning signal, not proof that cargo is customs-released or ready for pickup. The buyer should coordinate entry, carrier release, charges, availability and final delivery.
Make the handoff actionable
Send it to the customs broker and receiving team; verify shipment references and estimated availability; confirm which charges or release steps are outstanding; book delivery only after the provider confirms the cargo can be collected.
Confirm the boundary before cargo moves
Do not dispatch a truck solely from the estimated arrival date. Port availability, exam status, holds and terminal appointments can change.
Prepare a quote request
Include the product name and model, supplier city and pickup address, destination ZIP code, cargo-ready date, total pieces, packed dimensions and gross weight. State whether freight is palletized, stackable, temperature-sensitive or subject to special handling. For regulated or restricted goods, attach the current product documents and request written carrier review before delivery to the warehouse. Review the [relevant ANELGO service page](/services/battery-electronics-shipping.html) and send the details through the [shipment inquiry form](../index.html#quote).
Related guides
- Consignee vs Notify Party on a Bill of Lading: Confirm the Right Contacts
- Customs Release vs Carrier Release: Why a US Import May Still Not Be Deliverable
- Commercial Invoice Currency and Payment Terms: What Freight Teams Need to Check
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