Global Business Resources
More than 96% of the world's population and 75% of its purchasing power is outside the United States. Tapping into the global marketplace and taking advantage of international trade is essential to the success of Greater Des Moines’ (DSM's) business environment. As the DSM region's economic development organization, the Greater Des Moines Partnership can offer assistance related to international trade, including establishing on-site FTZ sub zones and approving certificates of origin.
Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ)
The Partnership manages Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) #107, which is conveniently located on Interstates 80 and 35, about 14 miles from the Des Moines International Airport. The FTZ allows certain types of merchandise to be imported, repackaged and assembled with other components, then exported without having to go through formal customs entry procedures or incurring import duties. The Partnership helps Iowa companies establish on-site FTZ sub zones.
Foreign Trade Zone Resources
Certificates of Origin
The Partnership assists the region's exporters with obtaining a notarized Certificate of Origin. A Certificate of Origin is a document that is required by certain foreign countries for tariff purposes, certifying the country of origin of specified goods. A Certificate of Origin is usually prepared by the exporter or freight forwarder, notarized and attested to by a local Chamber of Commerce. essCert is The Partnership's electronic system for processing a Certificate of Origin. To get started with essCert through The Partnership, create a user profile here. Companies with existing profiles in essCert can get started here. For additional instructions on creating a profile and your first Certificate of Origin submission, please review this instruction page.
For more information on The Partnership's Certificate of Origin services, contact Melissa Moyer.
Port of Entry
The Des Moines International Airport serves as a Port of Entry and is designated as Port 3513. As a Port of Entry, the airport has on-site U.S. Customs and U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors. A new customs facility has recently been completed for the convenience of shippers and travelers. Find more information about Port 3513.
Greater Des Moines Sister City Commission
The Greater Des Moines Sister City Commission initiates business, cultural, educational and social exchanges between our citizens and those of our sister cities. The commission includes representatives from eight DSM communities: Des Moines, Johnston, Urbandale, Norwalk, Cumming, Windsor Heights, Ankeny and Grimes. For more information, visit the Greater Des Moines Sister City Commission website.
Trade Assistance Resources
The Iowa Economic Development Authority, the International Trade Administration and the Des Moines office of the Small Business Authority provide additional resources for businesses in DSM: