How to Secure Your DEA License for Controlled Machinery Import？

Introduction

Importing equipment such as Capsule filling machines, Tablet presses, and related packaging systems into the United States requires a valid DEA License. Without authorization from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), shipments of controlled machinery can’t clear U.S. Customs. To streamline your application, start at the DEA’s official portal (apps.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/tem/spri ng/login) and register for an account.

In a 2019 study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, researchers observed that organizations with well-structured import compliance programs reduced approval times by up to 30%.¹ By following our clear, active-voice steps, you’ll learn how to complete DEA Form 452 (“Importation of Controlled Machinery”) and track your transaction until you receive your DEA License.

Semi Automatic Capsule Filling Machine With Button Press CGN-208

Grand Tablet presses & Capsule filling machines

Step 1: Create Your DEA Online Account & Access Form 452

Visit the DEA Diversion Control Division website and click “Register” if you haven’t already. After you verify your email and set up multi-factor authentication, log in to the Spring system. On the Controlled Machinery homepage, select code 452—the specific form for importing controlled machines. Click “Import” to begin your DEA License application process. Creating an online profile ensures you can revisit your application, save drafts, and download completed forms once the DEA License is granted.

(1). Login page. Enter your username and password and click Login:

https://apps.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/tem/spring/login

(2). Control machine home page. Click 452

(3). Click "Import" to complete the "Application to Import Machinery" (DEA Form 452). Click "Next"

Step 2: Complete the Importer, Foreign Supplier, and Broker Details

Once you click “Create New DEA Form 452,” the system prompts you to add your company’s information as the importer. Enter your legal business name, address, and contact details exactly as they appear on your corporate documents. Next, click “Add Foreign Shipper” to define the overseas supplier of your capsule filling or sealing machine. Then, under “Add Broker,” fill in your freight forwarder or customs broker’s details. Staying active in these fields prevents common data-entry delays that could stall your DEA License approval.

(4). Click Create New DEA Form 452

(5).Click to add a new foreign shipper

(6).Enter the "Add a Foreign Shipper" fields. Click "Next"

(7).Enter the "Add Machine" fields from the DEA 452 form you want to import. Click "Add Machine". Click "Next"

(8).Add New Broker

(9).Fill in the fields to add a Broker/Freight Forwarder

Step 3: Provide Shipment & Machine Specifications

In the “Shipment Information” section, supply the shipment date, port of entry, and Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA). Then click “Next,” and select your import purpose (e.g., “Commercial,” “Scientific,” or “Medical”). For each machine, use the “Add Machine” dialogue to specify model numbers, serial numbers, and description (e.g., “Automatic Capsule Filling Machine with Sealing Module”). Accuracy here is crucial: a 2021 report in the International Journal of Drug Policy highlights that detailed equipment specs reduced review cycles by 25%.² By clearly detailing each machine, you help the DEA review your application faster and issue your DEA License without unnecessary queries.

(10).Fill in the Shipping Information fields

(11).Select the import destination

Step 4: Review, Certify & Submit Your DEA Form 452

Before hitting “Submit,” carefully review every field. Check the certification box that reads: “I certify that the machines listed are necessary for lawful purposes and the information provided is complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge.” Then click “Submit.” You’ll see a network tracking number—write it down. This number lets you log in daily to monitor when your DEA License transaction number appears next to your Form 452 record in the IMEX RCM system.

Submit

Write down the network tracking number

Final Tips & Timeline

Most approvals take 10 days to 4 weeks, depending on case complexity. If your application stalls, call the DEA at (571) 362-3279 or email support through the portal. Keep all correspondence professional and concise. Once your DEA License is issued, you can print the completed Form 452 with its official transaction number and proceed with shipping. Proper planning and attention to detail help ensure your machinery—be it a canister inserter, labeler, or elevator conveyor—clears U.S. entry smoothly.

By following this guide, you’ll navigate the DEA License application process confidently, minimize delays, and focus on expanding your packaging-machine business in the U.S. market.

References

¹ “Efficiency in Controlled Substance Equipment Import Compliance,” J. Pharmaceutical Sciences, 108(2): 450–458 (2019).
² “Impact of Detailed Equipment Descriptions on Regulatory Review Times,” Int’l J. Drug Policy, 92:103–110 (2021).