Importing Food Products into the United States (2024)

FAQs

Can I import food to the USA? ›

Prior to importation of your food shipment, you will need to register with the FDA. Both importers and food facilities in the relevant exporting countries must register. Importers can register with the FDA at their website.

What food requirements are verified at the time of importation? Imported foods must be pure, wholesome, safe to eat, produced under sanitary conditions, and contain informative and truthful labeling in English.

In most cases, you will not need a license to import goods into the U.S. But for some items, agencies may require a license, permit, or other certification. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces import laws at U.S. ports of entry. CBP's Tips for New Importers and Exporters provides an overview.

Thus, any articles imported under this section for personal use with a value of under $800 can be imported duty free, and any articles imported for personal use with a value between $800 and $1800, will be subject to a flat 4% duty rate.

Import-export licenses in the US are generally free of cost. However, some agencies may require a nominal fee to issue or renew the permit. What types of goods require an import license? Certain agricultural products, arms and ammunition, radioactive material, and commercial equipment require an import license.

Do I have to pay duty on items shipped to the US? Yes. Any goods valued over $800 USD (de minimis value) are subject to import duty tax. However, items valued below $800 are exempt from duty, unless they fall under the De Minimis exception list.

What foods are not allowed through U.S. customs? ›

Prohibited or restricted items may include meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and products made from animal or plant materials. For generally allowed food items please visit USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

No, you do not need an EIN (Employer Identification Number) to import into the U.S. If you are importing to the U.S. as a foreign importer of record (you do not have a U.S. entity or presence) and you do not have an EIN, Flexport can apply for a CAIN (Customs Assigned Importer Number) on your behalf.

If you're shipping food or beverages to the USA as a business, you need to file a Prior Notice of Imported Foods with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is a requirement before shipping and the FDA reference number needs to be displayed on the parcel.

Yes, you may pack food in your carry-on or checked bag, but remember all food must undergo x-ray screening.

Most fruit and vegetable imports will require a permit issued by NPPO's Plant Protection Quarantine (PPQ) program. The program is part of the government's efforts to prevent contamination of the U.S. agricultural supply. To receive this permit, you will need to fill out PPQ Form 587.