[TIPS] USMCA Documentation and Why Classification Comes First

Host: Lalo Solorzano and Trudy Wilson Guest(s): N/A Published: May 27, 2026 Length: 16:11 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Trudy Wilson continue the Trudy’s Trade Tips series with another practical discussion on USMCA. This time, the focus is on documentation, certification requirements, and why tariff classification is the foundation for making accurate free trade agreement claims. Trudy explains one of the biggest changes from NAFTA to USMCA: the old formal certificate of origin is gone. Instead, companies must ensure their USMCA certification contains the required minimum data elements, regardless of the format used. That flexibility can be helpful, but it also creates room for confusion when documents are unclear or incomplete. The conversation also highlights the importance of identifying the certifier, exporter, producer, and importer, along with product descriptions, classifications, origin criteria, blanket periods, and certification statements. Trudy and Lalo then explain why tariff classification must come before USMCA qualification. If a company does not understand the classification of the finished product and its components, it cannot properly apply USMCA rules of origin. This episode matters because USMCA savings are valuable, but only when claims are documented, supported, and correctly qualified. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the documentation requirements for USMCA and the importance of tariff classification in determining whether goods qualify under the agreement. Trudy explains that USMCA no longer requires the old NAFTA certificate format. Instead, companies must provide the required minimum data elements in whatever format they choose. This includes identifying the certifier, exporter, producer, and importer, along with the product description, tariff classification, origin criterion, blanket period, authorized signature, date, and certification statement. A key point is that documentation must be clear. If a shipment includes both USMCA-qualifying goods and non-qualifying goods, the paperwork must clearly identify which items qualify. Mixing unclear origin declarations with USMCA claims can create confusion and risk. The discussion then shifts to tariff classification. Lalo and Trudy emphasize that “all roads lead to the HTS.” USMCA qualification depends on understanding the classification of the finished product and the classifications of the components, parts, or ingredients used to make it. Without that foundation, companies cannot properly apply product-specific rules or determine whether a tariff shift has occurred. Key Takeaways • USMCA does not require the old NAFTA certificate form, but it does require specific minimum data elements. • Companies may use their own format for USMCA certification as long as the required information is included. • The certifier, exporter, producer, and importer must be clearly identified with the required contact details. • Documentation must clearly show which goods qualify for USMCA and which do not. • Tariff classification is the foundation for USMCA qualification. • Companies must know the classification of the finished good and the components used to make it. • Product-specific rules under USMCA depend on classification and often require analyzing tariff shifts. • Lalo and Trudy recommend understanding tariff classification before taking on USMCA qualification work. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • TruTrade Solutions • Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn • Trudy Wilson on LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Trudy Wilson – LinkedIn Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? [email protected]