How to Import to Bermuda

If you’re interested in importing to Bermuda from the United States to start or grow your business, this guide is meant to help you.

Although the process might initially appear challenging, it becomes manageable once you grasp the fundamentals. We’ve compiled this comprehensive resource as a getting-started guide so you can be ready when the opportunity comes.

Why import to Bermuda?

Bermuda’s economy depends heavily on imports, with most consumer goods, building materials, and industrial equipment arriving by sea. The market is small but premium — businesses willing to invest in proper logistics and documentation can build durable customer relationships.

The high-level process

1. Confirm your products are eligible

Bermuda has a published list of restricted and prohibited goods. Confirm your product category is allowed and check whether any special licenses are required.

2. Understand duty rates

Bermuda assesses import duties on most goods. Rates vary by category — work with a customs broker familiar with the BDA tariff schedule.

3. Prepare documentation

You’ll need:

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of lading (BOL)
• Certificate of origin (where applicable)
• Any product-specific licenses

4. Coordinate sea freight

Bermuda is served by regular sailings out of Newark, Philadelphia, and other US East Coast ports. Container freight is the standard option.

5. Customs clearance

Both US export and BDA import customs need to be coordinated. Most importers use a customs broker for the BDA side.

6. Final delivery in Bermuda

Once cleared, the container is delivered to your customer’s site or your local representative.

Where T2G fits

We help businesses on the US-side logistics — inland freight, warehousing, container loading, pier trucking, and US export customs. We’ve shipped to Bermuda for over 10 years and know what works.

For BDA-side delivery and clearance, we partner with experienced Bermuda forwarders. One conversation with us covers both sides of the move.

Ready to start?

Contact us and we’ll walk you through the specific process for your products and timing — at no cost.