Withhold Release Order (WRO) — Definition & 2025 Guidelines Updated Nov 2025

A Withhold Release Order (WRO) is issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to detain imported goods suspected of non-compliance with U.S. laws. The most common reasons for issuing a WRO are:

• Violation of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA)
• Non-compliance with required product certifications (e.g., FDA, FCC, etc.)
• Failure to meet safety, security, or environmental standards

WROs are often triggered by suspicion of goods being produced with forced labor or failure to comply with U.S. safety standards, such as FCC certifications, FDA requirements, or non-compliance with UFLPA.

To minimize the risk of a WRO, it’s essential to follow these key compliance steps:

• Ensure UFLPA Compliance: Regularly check the UFLPA Entity List to confirm that your suppliers are not on the list.
• Proper Documentation: Provide accurate certificates of origin, FDA compliance, FCC certifications, and other required documentation.
• Pre-shipment Audits: Audit your shipments and verify all documents before dispatch to ensure compliance with U.S. laws.
• Engage a Customs Broker: Work with a licensed customs broker who can ensure that your shipments are fully compliant with U.S. regulations.

Failing to comply can lead to severe delays, fines, or even seizure of goods by U.S. Customs. Always ensure that your supply chain is transparent and meets all U.S. import regulations.

• Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA)
• Customs Broker
• HTS Code Classification
• FDA Prior Notice
• FCC Declaration of Conformity
• Withhold Release Order (WRO)

Michael, Senior Supply Chain Analyst at WinsBS Research:

“A Withhold Release Order (WRO) is a key tool for U.S. Customs to ensure goods entering the country comply with international trade and labor standards. Sellers need to stay updated on UFLPA regulations to avoid costly detentions and fines.”