CBP displayed this hoverboard with exposed counterfeit battery during a Jan. 27 press conference in Chicago. Courtesy photoUSCBP News:
CHICAGO ― U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers assigned to the Chicago Field Office have seized more than 16,000 counterfeit hoverboards with an estimated MSRP of more thn $6 million.
The self-balancing scooters, commonly referred to as “hoverboards” contain batteries that are deemed unauthorized and therefore counterfeit as well as fake trademark logos.
“This is a fine example of our officers and import specialists ensuring that only safe and legal products enter the U.S.,” Director of Field Operations William Ferrara said. “Not only are these hoverboards a serious safety hazard but they also threaten our economic security by hurting legitimate businesses who invest significant amounts of resources into development and protection of their brands.”
The final seizure total in Chicago is expected to significantly increase in the coming weeks due to the massive amount of shipments still being processed.
Hoverboards—self-balancing, two-wheeled, motorized platforms—are some of this past holiday season’s most popular items. Major safety concerns have surfaced following reports of fires possibly caused by substandard and counterfeit lithium ion batteries that power some hoverboards.
If you are aware of or suspect a company or individual of infringing on trademark or copyrights, report the trade violation to e-Allegations Online Trade Violation Reporting System or by calling 1.800.BE.ALERT.
Consumers may also report incidents to the Consumer Products Safety Commission. IPR enforcement is a CBP Priority Trade Issue. Video and still photos of the hoverboard seizure can be found and downloaded here.
