How Can I Tell If a Product Is Made in the USA or Just Distributed Here?

"Made in the USA" is an important phrase that many consumers hope to see labeled on the products they purchase. According to www.americansworking.com, over the past decade, America has lost 5.5 million manufacturing jobs, which in turn has caused a domino effect, eliminating an additional 33 million jobs for occupations such as truck drivers, clerical workers and accountants from the residual impact. To support the American economy and keep American citizens working, purchasing products that are manufactured locally is important and can be determined with some attention and research.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet

Instructions

1. Examine the item prior to purchase. Look over the packaging and the inner labels. Products that are not fully made in the USA and are imported are required by the U.S. Customs Service to be marked with an imprint stating the country of origin. FTC guidelines state that a product labeled "Made in USA" be "all or virtually all" made in the United States.

2. Research the product's brand prior to making a purchase. Online shopping helps in determining where an item was manufactured. Visit the FAQ's on the brand's website or conduct a web search to determine the item's origin. Use search terms, "Where is (brand) made?" Visit www.americansworking.com for a directory of American-made products.

3. Contact the FTC if you believe an item to be falsely advertised as "Made in USA." Call 1-877-FTC-HELP or file a complaint online at ftc.gov. If you believe an item has been fraudulently imported or exported, contact the U.S. Customs Department at 1-800-ITS-FAKE.

References

• Americans Working
• Federal Trade Commission