In today’s competitive trade environment, finding reliable and verified suppliers or buyers can make or break a business. While traditional methods like trade shows and referrals are still in play, a new and more strategic tool has emerged: US shipment data. With the ability to access real-time import-export transactions, this data is becoming the backbone of smart sourcing and sales strategies.

In this article, we’ll guide you through how to use US shipment data to find verified suppliers and buyers, helping your business scale globally while minimizing risk.

What is US Shipment Data?

US shipment data refers to records collected by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for ocean freight transactions entering or leaving the country. It is part of public record under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The data typically includes:

• Shipper and consignee details (company name, address, sometimes contact info)

• Product description and HS Code

• Port of loading and discharge

• Country of origin/destination

• Date and quantity of shipment

• Carrier and container details

This information is especially valuable because it captures the actual movement of goods and not just marketing claims.

Why Use Shipment Data to Find Suppliers and Buyers?

Here’s why more companies are turning to this data:

• Transparency: You see who is trading with whom and in what quantity.

• Verification: Historical shipment records act as proof of legitimacy and operational scale.

• Competitive Intelligence: Know who your competitors are sourcing from or selling to.

• Direct Contacts: Identify potential partners and avoid intermediaries.

Step-by-Step: Using US Shipment Data to Find Verified Suppliers

Step 1: Use a Trade Data Platform

First, subscribe to a reliable trade data platform like TradeImeX, Import Genius, Panjiva, or Datamyne. These platforms organize raw US Customs data into searchable databases with filters and analytics.

Step 2: Search by Product or HS Code

Use the search bar to enter your product name or HS (Harmonized System) code. For example, if you’re sourcing LED lights, search for:

• Product: “LED light bulbs”

• HS Code: “85395000”

This will show all US importers and exporters associated with that product.

Step 3: Identify Active Shippers

From the results, look for companies listed as shippers (exporters). These are your potential suppliers. Now look at:

• Frequency of shipments (indicates reliability)

• Volume (indicates capacity)

• Countries of origin (some countries specialize in specific products)

You can sort by recent dates to find suppliers that are still active in the trade.

Step 4: Verify Supplier Credentials

Look into:

• Company name and website (if available)

• Shipment history over the last 6–12 months

• Variety of consignees (suggests they serve multiple buyers)

This helps verify if the supplier is legitimate and experienced.

Step 5: Export the Data and Reach Out

Export your filtered data in Excel or CSV format. Use the company names to find their websites, contact details, and LinkedIn profiles. You can now reach out directly with proof that you’ve seen their recent export activity, which adds credibility to your approach.

Step-by-Step: Using US Shipment Data to Find Verified Buyers

Step 1: Reverse the Search

This time, your goal is to find consignees (importers or buyers) for your product category. If you manufacture or export garments, for instance, search for:

• HS Code: “620342” (Men’s trousers)

• Origin country: Leave blank or choose your export market

You’ll see a list of companies in the US importing those products.

Step 2: Analyze Import Volume and Frequency

To identify serious and active buyers:

• Look for high shipment volumes

• Check for regular monthly or quarterly purchases

• See if they are buying from multiple suppliers or just one

This gives you insight into their purchasing behavior and openness to new suppliers.

Step 3: Filter by Port or Region

If you want to target a specific region in the US (e.g., West Coast vs East Coast), filter by port of discharge. This is especially helpful if you have warehousing or logistics partners in that region.

Step 4: Profile the Buyer

Click into the consignee’s details and find:

• Company name

• Shipment history

• Types of products imported

• Contact information (on some platforms)

This gives you a warm lead and a reason to contact them with your product pitch.

Step 5: Create a Shortlist and Reach Out

Once you identify verified importers, create a targeted outreach strategy:

• Mention their past shipments

• Position your product as a competitive alternative

• Offer samples, pricing, or a virtual meeting

Use shipment records as a conversation starter:

“We noticed your company regularly imports textile products from Bangladesh. We are a leading manufacturer in the same region and would love to explore a partnership.”

Tips to Maximize Results

• Use Recent Data: Focus on the last 6 to 12 months of shipment activity for relevance.

• Watch Trends: Track if a buyer or supplier is growing or shrinking in volume.

• Cross-Reference: Validate company details with LinkedIn, Alibaba, and trade directories.

• Build a CRM: Use the data to build a CRM pipeline of verified leads.

• Check for Exclusivity: Some buyers might have exclusive agreements—look for companies working with multiple partners.

Advantages Over Traditional Lead Generation

Conclusion

Finding verified suppliers and buyers no longer needs to be a shot in the dark. With the power of US shipment data, businesses can unlock a world of opportunities through real trade records. Whether you’re sourcing raw materials or expanding your customer base, shipment data provides transparency, trust, and tactical insight.

By partnering with a data intelligence platform like TradeImeX, companies can streamline their lead generation process, verify partners before engagement, and ultimately grow faster with fewer risks. In a world where global trade is driven by data, shipment records are your gateway to success.