This article explains what drop ball certifications are, why they're required for eyewear shipments entering the United States, and what to do if you don't have one.
What is a drop ball certification?
A drop ball test certification confirms that eyewear lenses meet impact resistance safety standards. US Customs requires this documentation for all shipments containing sunglasses or spectacle lenses imported into the United States.
US customs requirements
All eyewear shipments entering the US must include:
The manufacturer's name and address
A drop ball (impact resistance) certification
These are legal requirements. Without the correct documentation, your shipment may be held at customs.
What to do if you don't have a certification
If you can't locate the original manufacturer's documentation:
Contact your manufacturer or supplier and request the certificate directly.
If the certificate can't be sourced, arrange for the products to be tested by a certified laboratory.
Keeping certifications on file
Keep drop ball certificates on file for all relevant eyewear products. If a carrier requests this documentation to support customs clearance, you'll be able to provide it immediately.