A CAIN is a unique number issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It identifies foreign importers without an Employer Identification Number (EIN). This number allows non-U.S. businesses to act as the Importer of Record for shipments entering the United States.
If a company lacks an EIN, a customs broker or logistics provider can apply for a Customs Assigned Importer Number on its behalf.
Foreign importers must obtain a CAIN if they:
- Do not have a U.S.-based business entity
- Cannot obtain an EIN
- Intend to act as the Importer of Record on U.S.-bound shipments
