---
title: "Why Does a U.S. Business Need to Act as Ultimate Consignee for a Foreign Importer?"
description: "Why foreign importers must name a US business as ultimate consignee for US imports (CBP Directive 3550-079A), even when holding an EIN or CAIN."
language: en
canonical: https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/help/foreign-importer-ultimate-consignee/
lifecycle: live
---

# Why Does a U.S. Business Need to Act as Ultimate Consignee for a Foreign Importer?

The ultimate consignee (the final recipient of the shipment) of U.S. imports must have a U.S. address and tax ID number, per [Customs Directive 3550-079A](https://www.cbp.gov/document/directives/3550-079a-ultimate-consignee-time-entry-release).

**If you have an** [EIN](https://www.flexport.com/glossary/employer-identification-number) **but your business is registered in a country other than the U.S.**, then you will need to name a U.S. business to act as the ultimate consignee of your shipment. The ultimate consignee will be the party who is receiving your goods at the final destination, such as a warehouse or your end customer. 

**If you are importing into the U.S. as a** [Foreign Importer of Record](https://www.flexport.com/help/176-foreign-importer-of-record/) (you do not have a U.S. entity or presence) **and you have a** [CAIN](https://www.flexport.com/glossary/customs-assigned-importer-number), then you will need to name a U.S. business to act as the ultimate consignee of your shipment. The ultimate consignee will be the party who is receiving your goods at the final destination, such as a warehouse or your end customer.

---

*This is a markdown version of [https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/help/foreign-importer-ultimate-consignee/](https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/help/foreign-importer-ultimate-consignee/) for AI/LLM consumption.*