Why general order (GO) matters to a first-time founder
Goods placed in general order can incur storage, transport and customs charges, tying up stock and delaying customers. If the problem is not resolved, US authorities may ultimately sell or otherwise dispose of the goods under applicable procedures.
Examples of general order (GO)
A founder imports 500 devices into the United States but the broker lacks required product documents. The shipment is not entered within the customs deadline and moves to a general-order warehouse. Storage charges grow daily until the paperwork and release are completed.
Common misunderstanding
Here GO does not mean a general business command, purchase approval or instruction to proceed. It is specialised US customs terminology. Other countries use different terms, deadlines and procedures for uncleared or abandoned imports, so the label should not be generalised globally.
When to use it
Use it when a US carrier, broker or customs notice says imported goods have entered general order. Contact a licensed customs broker promptly, confirm deadlines and costs, and fix missing entry documents. Seek specialist advice for regulated or disputed goods.