The Federal Trade Commission published a consumer alert on March 17, 2023 warning that a seller’s promise that a product “ships from the USA” is not the same as a Made in USA claim.
What the FTC said
- Shoppers often see “ships from the USA” in social media ads and on sites like Etsy and Amazon.
- Products made overseas are often shipped to USA distribution centers first. Saying so is fine, as long as it is clear the products are not USA-made.
- If a store does not make that difference clear, the FTC said, “chances are the products aren’t ‘made in the USA.’”
Tips before buying
- Search the store’s name with words like “scam” or “complaint,” and read credible reviews.
- Check the return and refund policy, and pay by credit card when possible.
- Report stores passing off products as Made in USA at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Under FTC policy, an unqualified Made in USA claim requires that a product be “all or virtually all” made in the USA.
FAQ
Does “ships from the USA” mean made here?
No. The product may have been made overseas and shipped from a USA warehouse.
Where do I report a false claim?
ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Who wrote the alert?
FTC consumer education specialist Andrew Rayo.
Source & credit
Source: FTC Consumer Advice, March 17, 2023: “‘Ships from the USA’ doesn’t always mean ‘Made in the USA’”.