Lindsey Zahn P.C. obtains TTB importer permits and handles label approvals, formulas, COLA waivers, use-up requests, and sample analysis for alcohol importers entering the U.S. market. It also handles New York wholesale and importer licensing.
Importing alcohol into the U.S. raises permitting and compliance issues that domestic producers never face. Products may not be formulated or labeled for the U.S. market, and the federal rules can create real problems during importation. Lindsey Zahn P.C. represents importers before TTB and provides long-term compliance support.
How the Firm Helps
- Determine the right federal TTB permit and file the importer’s basic permit application
- Update and amend TTB permits and state licenses
- Determine which federal agency regulates each product’s label
- Draft and submit formulas and determine which products need TTB lab sample analysis
- Review labels and represent you during the COLA process
- Draft use-up requests for imported products whose labels don’t comply
- Request accelerated processing from TTB for formulas and labels
- Draft COLA waiver requests for trade show and sample imports
- Advise on formula adoption and transfers between companies
- Review importation agreements for compliance issues
Process and Timeline
- Plan the right structure. The firm maps your products and sales plans to the federal permit and state licenses you need.
- Federal permit. The firm prepares and files the federal basic importer permit with TTB.
- State licensing. The firm prepares the state importer or wholesale license, including New York State Liquor Authority filings for New York businesses.
- Formulas and labels. Before launch, the firm handles formulas, label review, and COLAs so products can ship on time.
Federal and state applications can often be prepared in parallel. Plan for agency review on both before your opening or launch date, and file labels and formulas once your permits are on track.
Recent Representations
- Assisted an importer with a corporate change and determined its permit and license filings
- Reviewed wine labels for an importer’s compliance with federal wine labeling rules
- Drafted importation agreements and advised on state primary source requirements
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a use-up request?
A request to TTB to sell existing stock whose labels don’t fully comply with U.S. rules, often needed when a product is exported to the U.S. for the first time.
Does the firm work with businesses outside New York?
Yes. TTB and FDA requirements apply nationwide, and the firm represents clients across the United States on federal matters. It handles New York State Liquor Authority filings directly and advises on other states’ rules as your distribution grows.