How do I get a CBP importer number (Form 5106), and do I need one?

You need an importer number if you will be the importer of record on a US customs entry. Most US businesses use their IRS employer identification number (EIN). CBP Form 5106 is how you register your identity with CBP, and it is also how a foreign business without an EIN gets a CBP-assigned number.

What the number is

CBP's entry forms ask for an importer number. CBP says it is either your IRS business registration number, or your Social Security number if you have no business. CBP's 5106 FAQ lists the accepted IDs as an EIN, an SSN or a CBP-assigned number.

Who has to file Form 5106

CBP's FAQ says an individual or entity "must submit CBP Form 5106 if they need to be identified in CBP systems as an Importer of Record or other party to a CBP transaction." That covers consignees, sold-to parties and buyers too.

If you only buy from a US distributor who imported the goods, you are not the importer and don't need one.

Which number to use

• A US company with an EIN. Use the EIN. You can add a two-character suffix for a division, but CBP needs a separate form for each suffix.
• An individual. You can use an SSN, or ask for a CBP-assigned number. CBP says it still requires the SSN to be disclosed.
• A business with no EIN or SSN. CBP says it issues a CBP-assigned number when the individual or entity has neither. Foreign entities without US tax IDs commonly use this.

If you are an owner outside the US forming a US company, getting an EIN first is usually the cleaner route. Our guide on EINs for non-US owners covers that.

How to submit it

CBP's FAQ gives two routes for submitting or updating it:

1. Through a licensed customs broker that holds a power of attorney from you. The broker submits it in the Automated Broker Interface.
2. Directly in the ACE Portal, which needs a company account and user access.

Get the details right

As of October 2026, CBP says it may void an importer record for inaccurate or unverifiable information on the form, duplicate records, an EIN or SSN it can't verify with the IRS or SSA, or undeliverable mail. The physical address must be the real business or individual location, not a P.O. box, registered agent, customs broker, freight forwarder or business service center. The email and phone number must belong to you, not your broker.

A voided record can hold up shipments, so use the same legal name and address that appear on your IRS and state records.

What else you may need

A number alone doesn't clear goods. Depending on the shipment you may also need a customs bond, a broker, and for ocean freight an Importer Security Filing. See our guides on customs bonds, customs brokers and ISF.

How Shield fits

Once you import, you'll pay suppliers, freight and duties. Shield gives wholesalers US business accounts, a business credit card and overseas supplier payments in one place. Owners can live outside the US, with a US company.

FAQ

Is a CBP importer number the same as an EIN? Not always. An EIN is the IRS number most US businesses use as their importer number. A CBP-assigned number is for parties with no EIN or SSN.

Do I need one to import a small order? If you are the importer of record on an entry, CBP's FAQ says you need to be identified in its systems, whatever the size. Ask your broker.

Next step

To see how Shield helps you pay suppliers and freight costs, visit Shield business accounts.