Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid Under the Lacey Act When Exporting Wooden Goods
As a freight forwarder handling wooden product shipments worldwide, I’ve seen how the Lacey Act often becomes a hidden obstacle for exporters. This usually happens when the law is misunderstood or overlooked.
If you’re exporting wooden furniture, plywood, flooring, or packaging to the United States, this law directly impacts your shipment. In fact, it plays a key role in whether your goods clear customs smoothly—or get held up.
To help you avoid costly delays and legal trouble, I’ve outlined the five most common mistakes exporters make under the Lacey Act—along with simple tips to stay compliant.
1. Failing to Submit a Plant Product Declaration (PPD)
Under the Lacey Act, U.S. Customs requires a Plant Product Declaration (PPD) for all relevant wood products. This document must state the botanical name (genus and species), the country of harvest, and other sourcing details.
➡️ Mistake: Skipping this step or submitting the form late
✅ Solution: File your PPD at the time of entry. Work with a customs broker or freight forwarder to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
2. Using Incorrect or Generic Wood Species Names
Vague descriptions like “hardwood” or “mixed species” won’t meet U.S. requirements. The Lacey Act calls for specific scientific names of the wood used.
➡️ Mistake: Listing “hardwood” instead of Tectona grandis (teak)
✅ Solution: Request detailed specs from your supplier. Always include the correct genus and species in your paperwork.
3. Ignoring the Legal Harvest Requirement
Even if your documents are complete, your shipment can still be seized. That’s because the wood must be legally harvested—under the laws of the source country.
➡️ Mistake: Buying from unknown or uncertified suppliers
✅ Solution: Source only from legally verified forests. Ask for supporting documents like FSC or PEFC certificates.
4. Inadequate Supply Chain Transparency
U.S. importers—and you as the exporter—must be able to trace the wood’s full journey. If you can’t prove the wood’s origin, you’re exposed to risk.
➡️ Mistake: Trusting that your supplier handled everything
✅ Solution: Keep clear, organized records. These should include invoices, certificates of origin, and harvest permits.
5. Working with Freight Partners Who Don’t Understand the Lacey Act
Many freight forwarders focus only on logistics. But when you’re shipping regulated wood products, that’s not enough. You need a partner who understands compliance too.
➡️ Mistake: Choosing the cheapest option without compliance expertise
✅ Solution: Choose a freight forwarder who understands the Lacey Act. They should help review documents, advise on HS codes, and ensure declarations are correct before shipment
Final Thoughts
Complying with the Lacey Act isn’t just about avoiding penalties. It’s also about protecting your goods, your reputation, and your long-term U.S. partnerships.
The good news is, with proper planning and the right logistics partner, you can avoid these common mistakes. That means fewer delays—and greater peace of mind.
📦 Need help navigating the Lacey Act?
Let’s talk. I can help review your sourcing documents, verify your declarations, and get your wooden goods through U.S. customs—without surprises.
