U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized 290 cartons in a Houston counterfeit lithium batteries case valued at nearly $1 million. Officials said the products displayed the Bluetooth logo without authorization.
CBP announced the seizure Tuesday, Nov. 10. Officers and import specialists inspected the shipment at the Area Port of Houston/Galveston.
Houston Counterfeit Lithium Batteries Violated Trademark Rules
The batteries carried the brand name “EZ Kruiser” and displayed the trademarked Bluetooth logo. CBP officers worked with trademark representatives to determine whether the branding was authorized.
The investigation confirmed the company did not have permission to use the Bluetooth logo, according to CBP’s announcement. Federal officials classified the merchandise as counterfeit and seized it for violating intellectual property laws.
The agency cited federal regulations covering imported goods with unauthorized trademarks. CBP did not provide the number of individual batteries contained in the 290 cartons.
Officials also did not identify the importer, shipment’s origin or intended recipient. The announcement did not report any arrests connected with the seizure.
Counterfeit Electronics May Carry Added Risks
The seizure resulted from unauthorized branding. However, electronics from unverified manufacturers may also present reliability and safety concerns.
Houston technology expert Juan Guevara Torres told FOX 26 Houston that poorly manufactured batteries may overheat, swell or stop working after limited use. In some cases, defective lithium batteries can damage devices or create fire hazards.
Consumers should watch for products that become unusually hot during charging. Swelling, leaking, strange odors and rapidly declining battery life can also signal a problem.
A counterfeit trademark does not automatically prove that a battery is defective. Still, unauthorized branding can prevent consumers from accurately identifying a product’s manufacturer, testing standards or warranty coverage.
CBP Warns About Counterfeit Commerce
Area Port Director John Landry said counterfeit products harm legitimate businesses and may support other illegal activity.
“These global criminal networks do great harm to hard-working American businesses who play by the rules,” Landry said in the agency’s release.
CBP reported that nearly 90% of its intellectual property seizures involve merchandise originating from China or Hong Kong. The figure applies to seizures nationwide and was not listed as the origin of this shipment.
Houston officers have intercepted several types of counterfeit merchandise in recent months. Those seizures have included watches, children’s toys, vehicles and FIFA World Cup apparel and memorabilia.
Federal agents examine imports for intellectual property violations, prohibited goods and other trade concerns. They also coordinate with trademark owners when determining whether branding is legitimate.
How Houston Consumers Can Avoid Counterfeit Batteries
CBP encourages shoppers to purchase batteries and electronic accessories directly from manufacturers or authorized retailers. Buyers should also verify online sellers before placing an order.
A legitimate business should provide working contact information and a clear return policy. Customer reviews may also reveal recurring problems with product quality or authenticity.
Prices far below those offered by established retailers can be another warning sign. Product packaging should contain consistent branding, safety information and manufacturer details.
Houston-area consumers who suspect counterfeit merchandise can contact CBP through its online Trade Violations Reporting system. Reports may also be made by calling 1-800-BE-ALERT.
The Houston counterfeit lithium batteries seizure highlights the importance of checking electronic products before purchase. Buying from verified sellers can protect consumers while supporting businesses that follow safety and trademark rules.