The Importing Process
Learn the steps from purchasing merchandise from a foreign supplier to final delivery.
A FORTHCOMING BOOK BY DIANA JUAREZ RUEWELER
Understanding
U.S. Importing.
A practical beginner’s guide to U.S. Customs and international trade.
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Knowledge · Confidence · Better Importing Decisions
THE OFFICIAL BOOK COVER
The forthcoming book
A clearer path through the world of importing.
Importing involves much more than purchasing merchandise from another country. It requires planning, documentation, transportation, Customs clearance, and compliance with government regulations.
During 2025 and 2026, changes in tariffs and international trade policies made it increasingly important for small businesses to understand the cost of importing.
Understanding U.S. Importing provides a practical introduction to the procedures, responsibilities, and expenses involved in bringing merchandise into the United States.
Inside the guide
What you will learn
Eight essential subjects explained for small-business owners, first-time importers, and curious readers.
Customs Brokers and CBP
Understand the responsibilities of Customs brokers and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Duties, Tariffs, and HTSUS
Learn how merchandise is classified and how regular and additional tariffs affect importing costs.
Import Documents
Understand Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading, Powers of Attorney, and Customs bonds.
Transportation
Learn about importing by truck, ocean vessel, and air.
Special Customs Procedures
Explore Foreign-Trade Zones, bonded warehouses, in-bond transportation, and special trade programs.
Government Requirements
Understand why certain products require additional government agency approvals.
Practical Examples
Follow sample shipments and cost calculations to better understand importing expenses.
BOOK RELEASE · COMING SOON
The next chapter is coming soon.
Understanding U.S. Importing — A Beginner's Guide to U.S. Customs and International Trade
Contact the author ↗Behind the book
About the Book & Author
Decades of Customs experience, technology, and practical education.
Why I Wrote This Book
After decades of working with Customs brokers, importers, freight forwarders, and logistics companies, I realized how complicated importing can appear to someone unfamiliar with the process.
Importing involves regulations, documentation, duties, tariffs, transportation, and government requirements that can be difficult for a small business to understand.
I wrote Understanding U.S. Importing to share the knowledge and experience I have gained throughout my career.
The purpose of this book is not to replace a licensed Customs broker. It is to help readers understand the importing process and recognize the important role Customs professionals play in international trade.
DIANA JUAREZ RUEWELER
Diana Juarez Rueweler is an entrepreneur, software developer, licensed U.S. Customs Broker, and President of Trade Technology Systems, Inc.
Her career in computer programming began in the 1970s. In the 1980s, she was hired by a Customs broker in Laredo, Texas, to develop software that would automate Customs clearance paperwork.
Before developing the software, she first had to learn the importing process, including Customs documentation, classifications, duties, and transportation.
In 1988, she became an approved Automated Broker Interface (ABI) software vendor.
Her company evolved alongside Customs technology, from early computer systems to modern web-based applications.
Professional Recognition
2010 – Success Story of the Year
Trade Technology Systems, Inc. was selected by the Small Business Development Center for the South Texas region as its 2010 "Success Story of the Year."
2025 – Laredo College
Diana was honored to be invited to speak at a Logistics Lecture hosted by Laredo College's Global Logistics Center in April 2025.
International Trade and Technology
Throughout her career, Diana has witnessed the transformation of importing from manual paperwork to electronic Customs processing and modern web applications.
Artificial Intelligence is creating new opportunities for processing import information. However, technology must continue to be supported by human knowledge, experience, and professional judgment.
Her commitment remains the same: helping businesses navigate the changing world of importing through technology, education, and practical experience.
Connect
Get in touch
Questions about the book, educational presentations, or speaking engagements.
210-648-0480
info@understandingusimporting.com
P.O. Box 200897
San Antonio, Texas 78220
Contact the author
Let's start a conversation.
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Educational notice: This website provides educational information only. Specific Customs entries, classifications, duties, or regulatory questions should be directed to a licensed Customs broker or other qualified professional.