Support Home > Import & Export Shipping >

What is a Lacey Act declaration?

The Lacey Act of 1900 is a conservation law in the United States that prohibits trade in wildlife, fish, and plants that have been illegally harvested or trafficked.

If you are importing a product into the United States that contains plant materials you may need to complete a USDA Plant & Product declaration form. 

Do you need a Lacey Act declaration? Yes, if…(all must apply)

  • Your product contains plant material (a guitar with inlaid wood or mother of pearl, for example), and
  • Your product is classified under a Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code listed on APHIS’ Implementation Scheduleand
  • Your shipment is imported as a formal entryand
  • Your shipment falls under one of these entry type codes

Click here to visit the USDA website to learn more about the Lacey Act declaration. 

Nerd Tip! Always monitor the progress of your shipment(s) in your ShipNerd dashboard. You will see an exception notice if additional information is required for clearance. Contact ShipNerd support if you need assistance. 

As the shipper, you are responsible for ensuring that all items within your shipment comply with applicable international treaties, laws, regulations, or requirements.