How to Import Food Products to the U.S. For Resale
The list of agencies that play a vital role in regulating food imports to the US is lengthy. However, a licensed customs broker can simplify the process to ensure food remains safe.
Peer-Reviewed by Unassigned - Written by - Updated on Unknown Date
I am looking for importing clarify butter from india to usa
Sri•
Hi there, what would be the procedure for importing died fish or seafood from India?
AKS•
Can a small amount of dried specialized mushrooms be imported from India?
Carolina•
If I want to import maybe 3-4 boxes of chips and soda from Mexico to US, do I need all of the above? I plan to keep it under $800 of merchandise per month.
Sugiono Sugialam•
Hi,
I would like to import dried larvae, insect meals, insect oil (HS CODE 2309.90.11). What are the steps necessary and regulations in place for the supplier to enter the US?
Somya Bhargava•
I am planning to import Indian frozen food items.. Is there a list of to do items anyone has, which might help me?
Onyekwere Bethel•
I am looking forward to Import, smoked catfish, and freezer live Catfish packaged and weighing 20kg per carton, vegetables, poultry Products; crates of eggs, chickens.
All from Nigeria. What are the procedures to deliver to US?
Randy Hauck•
Hi Onyekwere,
Because all of the items you listed are food products, you're going to have many steps to go through in order to import all of these goods. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to setup a 1-on-1 consultation with our Licensed Customs Brokers. We look forward to helping you!
Janet•
I am wanting to import bottled juices and condiments and jams and honey from france. What questions do I need to ask the manufacturer and how do I begin? They already have an importer in usa.
Randy Hauck•
Hi Janet,
If they're already working with a U.S. importer to bring in their goods, that's a great sign. This likely means that their facility is already registered with the FDA. There are some questions you should in regards to the shipping terms that they use and whether you're responsible for clearing customs or if they handle it.
One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to provide further assistance and setup a 1-on-1 consultation with our Licensed Customs Brokers. We look forward to helping you!
HUONG CAO•
Hello
I'd like to import NON dairy products from Vietnam to US. Am I required an import permit? if required, what US government agency can I apply to?
Thank you
Randy Hauck•
Hi Huong,
Whether or not you need an import permit will depend on exactly what you're importing. For example, some fruits and vegetables require a PPQ permit, while others don't. When it comes to importing any type of food product, you can end up dealing with USDA, FWS, FDA, and more.
One of our import experts will be reaching out to you shortly to gather some additional information to assist you. We look forward to helping you!
Simon Mudzudzu•
I would like to import processed chips and other processed foods from Zimbabwe to the USA. What do I need and what should I do?
Randy Hauck•
Hi Simon,
You're going to have many steps to go through when it comes to importing food into the U.S. Our Licensed Customs Brokers can give you a full overview of this process and answer your specific questions during a consulting session. The link below provides information about our consulting services and a link to purchase a session. We look forward to assisting you further!
I am looking at importing fruit syrup from Colombia to the USA. I am being told I can't pack them in vacuum-sealed bags. Does that sound right, and if so is there a reason why
Randy Hauck•
Hi Andrew,
One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly in regards to your question. We look forward to helping you!
Pablo Santiago•
We want to import Food Products from Puerto Rico. Is that still consider import since PR is Us territory. Can you help me with the details. Is there any specifics regulations?
Randy Hauck•
Hi Pablo,
While Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, there will still be a review process similar to importing involved. Our Licensed Customs Brokers can help you with this. You can consult with our brokers through our import consulting services to get the help you need.
Farriz Fathan•
Greetings from Malaysia. I want to export halal snacks and energy bars from Malaysia to the USA. Can you advise me on the estimation of costs and typical timeframe expected to obtain FDA certification? Thank you.
Randy Hauck•
Hi Farriz,
Our Licensed Customs Brokers can review this information with you through our import consulting services. During your consulting session, our Broker will review the details of your import and provide with estimated costs, timelines, and more. We look forward to assisting you further.
Chris Choi•
Hi There,
We are planning on importing vegetarian, soy base products from China. Please advise FDA guidelines in terms of ingredient limitations.
Thanks
Chris
Randy Hauck•
Hi Chris,
There aren't many rules in place regarding ingredient limitations. However, you'll need to comply with FDA import requirements, including, filing prior notice. It's also best to work with a Licensed Customs Broker to properly classify your imported food with the correct HTS code.
You can schedule a consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers at the following link- Import Export Consulting Services. We look forward to assisting you further!
Hk•
Hi,
I am looking to import non dairy pre packaged baby food powder from india to usa.
Can you help me with the details.
Thanks
Randy Hauck•
Hi Hk,
We can absolutely help you with this! One of our customs experts will reach out to you via e-mail to assist you further.
James Smith•
Hello!
My wife’s family in Peru has a small farm and want to start importing organic Avocados, pecans and grapes to the United States.
We want to set up a little business to be able to help them best do this.
What would that process look like?
Randy Hauck•
Hi James,
There are many steps involved in getting setup to import food products into the U.S. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to provide you with an overview and schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you!
Kelly•
Hello,
I was approached by a distributor in Greece about importing a variety of prepackaged gourmet foods. I've never done this before and I'm trying to figure out what that would entail. Your article is very helpful but I obviously need more help.
If someone could reach out, that would be very much appreciated.
Thanks
Randy Hauck•
Hi Kelly,
We appreciate the feedback! We've reached out to you privately via e-mail to assist you futher.
Fuat Bagsever•
I am planning on importing Tahini from Israel. Any help/quidance here?
Randy Hauck•
Hi Fuat,
Tahini will be subject to FDA regulations. You'll need to ensure that it's being processed in an FDA registered facility and follows all of the relevant guidelines inclcuding labeling requirements and more.
We've responded privately with additional information to assist you.
Alex Tamir•
Hello,
I’m trying to gather some basic info on importing jams, pickles, fruit syrup And olive oil from Lebanon. What do I need to do/know? Thanks !
Randy Hauck•
Hi Alex,
All of the products that you listed will need to comply with FDA and standard customs regulations. Our Licensed Customs Brokers can assist you with this and walk you through all of the details.
Schedule an importing consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers to get definitive answers to all of your questions. We look forward to helping you!
M•
Does importing honey and nuts to sell them on Amazon need any specific license
Thank you
Randy Hauck•
Hello,
All imported honey and nuts are required to comply with FDA standards. This includes proper labeling on the goods, as well as providing documentation that the goods were process in an FDA approved facility.
Our team of Licensed Customs Brokers can assist you in ensuring you have the proper documentation and everything you need to safely import your honey and nuts. Reach out to our team at (855)912-0406 or schedule a consulting session today. We look forward to assisting you.
Adolfo•
Hello we are a startup at UC Berkeley looking to import dehydrated insects (Black Soldier Fly Larvae) from either Europe or Singapore/Malasya. The end use is to make dehydrated pet food. Could you guide us about the steps that we eventually have to take?
Thank you very much!
Randy Hauck•
Hi Adolfo,
Thank you for reaching out to our team. There are a number of steps you're going to need to take. Your import will need to include proper paperwork through the Fish and Wildlife Service. If you end up importing from Singapore and want to take advantage of the free trade agreement with the U.S., there will be additional paperwork to complete as well. This is all in addition to standard import procedures, including securing your import with a customs bond, that need to be followed.
Our team is more than happy to assist you with all of this. You can reach out to our Licensed Brokers at (855)912-0406. We look forward to working with you and helping you bring your insects into the U.S.
Maria•
Hello,
I would like to import canned Hummus dip to the US. What is the custom duty cost for this product?
Randy Hauck•
Hi Maria,
One of our Licensed Customs Brokers can provide you with this information. Give us a call at (855)912-0406 to speak with our customs experts.
Sergio Santos•
We want to export from Mexico ready to eat meals, with deferments flavors. All this meals have meat from beef, chicken and pork. What I have to do??
Randy Hauck•
Hi Sergio,
Since your import contains food products intended for consumers, it will need to be in compliance with FDA regulations. You'll also need to abide by all CBP regulations as well.
Our team can assist you with all of this. Please give us a call at (855)912-0406 and our team will be happy to help you.
Sandra Ortiz•
Hi! can a product to be imported to the United States from Colombia can have two different nutrition facts label at the same package? the local and the USFDA? or need to have just the USFDA?
Regards,
Sandra
Randy Hauck•
Hi Sandra,
The labeling rules vary from product to product. The best course of action is to consult with our Licensed Customs Brokers. They'll be able to review your product to determine the specific labeling rules that apply. You can schedule a consulting session at the link below. We look forward to helping you!
hello am working to import yellow cucumbers from Egypt toUSA for resale to the retailer store I like to inform you this kind of cucumber is not existing in US I never import before can you advise how to start thank you
Randy Hauck•
Hi Ron,
We can absolutely help you with this! One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to provide you with the information you requested.
Matt Wilson•
I would like to know the requirements of the United States to allow for the import of raw, un-pasteurized citrus juice from Costa Rica.
comments@usacc3.rlgrandd.com•
Hi Matt,
Thank you for your question. Importing citrus fruit into the United States is regulated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and US Customs. We can help you with understanding the process and obtaining the information that is needed. Through our consultation services, we will explain what the requirements are, if permits and registrations are required as well as the US Customs requirements. We know it can be confusing, especially for first time importers which is why we created this program - It's a perfect place to start.
Our fee is $275 for a 30 minute consultation. During your consulting session, our Licensed Brokers cover all of the basics for importing and go over your specific situation and what will be needed to successfully import your products.
Jennifer Borkowskis•
I am in Australia. I have a friend in the USA who has asked me to send him one packet of chicken salt for his personal use.
comments@usacc3.rlgrandd.com•
Hello, for personal shipments you are not required to work with a customs broker and I don't see any issues with shipping this commodity to the US. Is there a specific question that you have for us that we can answer? Thank you, Jonathan Heiland
Nina Ho•
I want to import Lanzones from Thailand to USA, with a high volume of it
Tell me what I have to do since I have a continuous service Bond?
comments@usacc3.rlgrandd.com•
Hi Nina! Great question! I have attached a link to our consulting team that can assist you! We look forward to hearing from you!
Rick•
What is required from a manufacturer in Mexico to us to import to the US? Does this manufacture have to be HACCP or IS22000 approve. Looking to import shelf stable bakery fillings in large packaging format.
Jen Boys•
Hi Rick! We'd be happy to help with your import into the US. For importing food, you'll be to meet FDA requirements in addition to Customs requirements. You're in luck, we can help you with that! One of our customs experts will be in touch shortly at the email address you provided!
Abdul•
Hi, I would like to import Rice from Pakistan to US, what would be the proper procedure?
Jennifer Boys•
You'll need to register your import with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first and if you're importing for business, you'll need a customs bond. You can buy a customs bond right on our website, USACustomsClearance.com. You can also come back and chat with one of our import experts by clicking on the chat bubble in the bottom right corner of the page.
James Moorcroft•
I would like to import Andean berries from Colombia. What do I need to do?
Jennifer Boys•
The next steps would depend if you're importing the berries for personal or commercial purposes and the volume of berries you plan to import. We offer consulting services and can walk you through the steps and paperwork you'd need to file. You can chat with us by clicking the chat button in the bottom right corner of the page and one of our import specialists will be happy to help.
Kelli•
I like to import mango Steen and other tropical fruits from Thailand. How can o do that?
Jennifer Boys•
Thanks for reaching out with your question. The import of Mangosteen from Thailand was illegal in the US until 2007 because of concern over importation of fruit flies. While it is now legal to import the fruit, before you ship, it must be irradiated to make sure there are no fruit flies present. Documentation of this process must be presented before fruit will be allowed into the US. Here is a helpful link with some FAQs about what is needed. When you're ready to purchase a bond, we can help. You can buy it easily right through our website, or you can chat with us for more help.
RICARDO GALEANO•
i want to import snacks like potatoe chips, cassava chips, arracacha chips, and plantain chips and trail mixes of nuts, as well. What are the steps knowing that i dont have any company so i have to create one, and what is the spending time or lead time to achive this goal?
Jennifer Boys•
The regulations for importing foods like the ones you mentioned are different if you are a business than if you're importing for personal use. When you're ready to start importing for your company, feel free to chat with one of our import specialists by clicking on the bottom right corner of the page and we can help you through the process.
Roger Fleck•
Can you reach out to me on enail i have juice import questions
Jennifer Boys•
You can use our chat feature in the bottom right corner of the page to speak to one of our import specialists. They will answer any of your questions there. Thank you for reaching out.
We know the process and requirements can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be.
We can help.
So when ordering a product from our site, you will be happy to know there is no risk in choosing the “wrong” product. We have you covered. In the unlikely event, you select the wrong product, we can help. Our team can help navigate the proper purchase and refunds.
As long as you haven’t submitted your bond application, filed a new Importer of Record, or had your consultation session we can provide a refund for those products minus a service fee of $45.
You will have 90 days to submit your bond application to us, after that time you forfeit your bond fees and there will be no refunds.
eBook product sales are final and refunds are not available.
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I am looking for importing clarify butter from india to usa
Hi there, what would be the procedure for importing died fish or seafood from India?
Can a small amount of dried specialized mushrooms be imported from India?
If I want to import maybe 3-4 boxes of chips and soda from Mexico to US, do I need all of the above? I plan to keep it under $800 of merchandise per month.
Hi,
I would like to import dried larvae, insect meals, insect oil (HS CODE 2309.90.11). What are the steps necessary and regulations in place for the supplier to enter the US?
I am planning to import Indian frozen food items.. Is there a list of to do items anyone has, which might help me?
I am looking forward to Import, smoked catfish, and freezer live Catfish packaged and weighing 20kg per carton, vegetables, poultry Products; crates of eggs, chickens.
All from Nigeria. What are the procedures to deliver to US?
Hi Onyekwere,
Because all of the items you listed are food products, you're going to have many steps to go through in order to import all of these goods. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to setup a 1-on-1 consultation with our Licensed Customs Brokers. We look forward to helping you!
I am wanting to import bottled juices and condiments and jams and honey from france. What questions do I need to ask the manufacturer and how do I begin? They already have an importer in usa.
Hi Janet,
If they're already working with a U.S. importer to bring in their goods, that's a great sign. This likely means that their facility is already registered with the FDA. There are some questions you should in regards to the shipping terms that they use and whether you're responsible for clearing customs or if they handle it.
One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to provide further assistance and setup a 1-on-1 consultation with our Licensed Customs Brokers. We look forward to helping you!
Hello
I'd like to import NON dairy products from Vietnam to US. Am I required an import permit? if required, what US government agency can I apply to?
Thank you
Hi Huong,
Whether or not you need an import permit will depend on exactly what you're importing. For example, some fruits and vegetables require a PPQ permit, while others don't. When it comes to importing any type of food product, you can end up dealing with USDA, FWS, FDA, and more.
One of our import experts will be reaching out to you shortly to gather some additional information to assist you. We look forward to helping you!
I would like to import processed chips and other processed foods from Zimbabwe to the USA. What do I need and what should I do?
Hi Simon,
You're going to have many steps to go through when it comes to importing food into the U.S. Our Licensed Customs Brokers can give you a full overview of this process and answer your specific questions during a consulting session. The link below provides information about our consulting services and a link to purchase a session. We look forward to assisting you further!
Import Export Consulting Services
I am looking at importing fruit syrup from Colombia to the USA. I am being told I can't pack them in vacuum-sealed bags. Does that sound right, and if so is there a reason why
Hi Andrew,
One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly in regards to your question. We look forward to helping you!
We want to import Food Products from Puerto Rico. Is that still consider import since PR is Us territory. Can you help me with the details. Is there any specifics regulations?
Hi Pablo,
While Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, there will still be a review process similar to importing involved. Our Licensed Customs Brokers can help you with this. You can consult with our brokers through our import consulting services to get the help you need.
Greetings from Malaysia. I want to export halal snacks and energy bars from Malaysia to the USA. Can you advise me on the estimation of costs and typical timeframe expected to obtain FDA certification? Thank you.
Hi Farriz,
Our Licensed Customs Brokers can review this information with you through our import consulting services. During your consulting session, our Broker will review the details of your import and provide with estimated costs, timelines, and more. We look forward to assisting you further.
Hi There,
We are planning on importing vegetarian, soy base products from China. Please advise FDA guidelines in terms of ingredient limitations.
Thanks
Chris
Hi Chris,
There aren't many rules in place regarding ingredient limitations. However, you'll need to comply with FDA import requirements, including, filing prior notice. It's also best to work with a Licensed Customs Broker to properly classify your imported food with the correct HTS code.
You can schedule a consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers at the following link- Import Export Consulting Services. We look forward to assisting you further!
Hi,
I am looking to import non dairy pre packaged baby food powder from india to usa.
Can you help me with the details.
Thanks
Hi Hk,
We can absolutely help you with this! One of our customs experts will reach out to you via e-mail to assist you further.
Hello!
My wife’s family in Peru has a small farm and want to start importing organic Avocados, pecans and grapes to the United States.
We want to set up a little business to be able to help them best do this.
What would that process look like?
Hi James,
There are many steps involved in getting setup to import food products into the U.S. One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly to provide you with an overview and schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you!
Hello,
I was approached by a distributor in Greece about importing a variety of prepackaged gourmet foods. I've never done this before and I'm trying to figure out what that would entail. Your article is very helpful but I obviously need more help.
If someone could reach out, that would be very much appreciated.
Thanks
Hi Kelly,
We appreciate the feedback! We've reached out to you privately via e-mail to assist you futher.
I am planning on importing Tahini from Israel. Any help/quidance here?
Hi Fuat,
Tahini will be subject to FDA regulations. You'll need to ensure that it's being processed in an FDA registered facility and follows all of the relevant guidelines inclcuding labeling requirements and more.
We've responded privately with additional information to assist you.
Hello,
I’m trying to gather some basic info on importing jams, pickles, fruit syrup And olive oil from Lebanon. What do I need to do/know? Thanks !
Hi Alex,
All of the products that you listed will need to comply with FDA and standard customs regulations. Our Licensed Customs Brokers can assist you with this and walk you through all of the details.
Schedule an importing consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers to get definitive answers to all of your questions. We look forward to helping you!
Does importing honey and nuts to sell them on Amazon need any specific license
Thank you
Hello,
All imported honey and nuts are required to comply with FDA standards. This includes proper labeling on the goods, as well as providing documentation that the goods were process in an FDA approved facility.
Our team of Licensed Customs Brokers can assist you in ensuring you have the proper documentation and everything you need to safely import your honey and nuts. Reach out to our team at (855)912-0406 or schedule a consulting session today. We look forward to assisting you.
Hello we are a startup at UC Berkeley looking to import dehydrated insects (Black Soldier Fly Larvae) from either Europe or Singapore/Malasya. The end use is to make dehydrated pet food. Could you guide us about the steps that we eventually have to take?
Thank you very much!
Hi Adolfo,
Thank you for reaching out to our team. There are a number of steps you're going to need to take. Your import will need to include proper paperwork through the Fish and Wildlife Service. If you end up importing from Singapore and want to take advantage of the free trade agreement with the U.S., there will be additional paperwork to complete as well. This is all in addition to standard import procedures, including securing your import with a customs bond, that need to be followed.
Our team is more than happy to assist you with all of this. You can reach out to our Licensed Brokers at (855)912-0406. We look forward to working with you and helping you bring your insects into the U.S.
Hello,
I would like to import canned Hummus dip to the US. What is the custom duty cost for this product?
Hi Maria,
One of our Licensed Customs Brokers can provide you with this information. Give us a call at (855)912-0406 to speak with our customs experts.
We want to export from Mexico ready to eat meals, with deferments flavors. All this meals have meat from beef, chicken and pork. What I have to do??
Hi Sergio,
Since your import contains food products intended for consumers, it will need to be in compliance with FDA regulations. You'll also need to abide by all CBP regulations as well.
Our team can assist you with all of this. Please give us a call at (855)912-0406 and our team will be happy to help you.
Hi! can a product to be imported to the United States from Colombia can have two different nutrition facts label at the same package? the local and the USFDA? or need to have just the USFDA?
Regards,
Sandra
Hi Sandra,
The labeling rules vary from product to product. The best course of action is to consult with our Licensed Customs Brokers. They'll be able to review your product to determine the specific labeling rules that apply. You can schedule a consulting session at the link below. We look forward to helping you!
Import consulting services.
hello am working to import yellow cucumbers from Egypt toUSA for resale to the retailer store I like to inform you this kind of cucumber is not existing in US I never import before can you advise how to start thank you
Hi Ron,
We can absolutely help you with this! One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to provide you with the information you requested.
I would like to know the requirements of the United States to allow for the import of raw, un-pasteurized citrus juice from Costa Rica.
Hi Matt,
Thank you for your question. Importing citrus fruit into the United States is regulated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and US Customs. We can help you with understanding the process and obtaining the information that is needed. Through our consultation services, we will explain what the requirements are, if permits and registrations are required as well as the US Customs requirements. We know it can be confusing, especially for first time importers which is why we created this program - It's a perfect place to start.
Our fee is $275 for a 30 minute consultation. During your consulting session, our Licensed Brokers cover all of the basics for importing and go over your specific situation and what will be needed to successfully import your products.
I am in Australia. I have a friend in the USA who has asked me to send him one packet of chicken salt for his personal use.
Hello, for personal shipments you are not required to work with a customs broker and I don't see any issues with shipping this commodity to the US. Is there a specific question that you have for us that we can answer? Thank you, Jonathan Heiland
I want to import Lanzones from Thailand to USA, with a high volume of it
Tell me what I have to do since I have a continuous service Bond?
Hi Nina! Great question! I have attached a link to our consulting team that can assist you! We look forward to hearing from you!
What is required from a manufacturer in Mexico to us to import to the US? Does this manufacture have to be HACCP or IS22000 approve. Looking to import shelf stable bakery fillings in large packaging format.
Hi Rick! We'd be happy to help with your import into the US. For importing food, you'll be to meet FDA requirements in addition to Customs requirements. You're in luck, we can help you with that! One of our customs experts will be in touch shortly at the email address you provided!
Hi, I would like to import Rice from Pakistan to US, what would be the proper procedure?
You'll need to register your import with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first and if you're importing for business, you'll need a customs bond. You can buy a customs bond right on our website, USACustomsClearance.com. You can also come back and chat with one of our import experts by clicking on the chat bubble in the bottom right corner of the page.
I would like to import Andean berries from Colombia. What do I need to do?
The next steps would depend if you're importing the berries for personal or commercial purposes and the volume of berries you plan to import. We offer consulting services and can walk you through the steps and paperwork you'd need to file. You can chat with us by clicking the chat button in the bottom right corner of the page and one of our import specialists will be happy to help.
I like to import mango Steen and other tropical fruits from Thailand. How can o do that?
Thanks for reaching out with your question. The import of Mangosteen from Thailand was illegal in the US until 2007 because of concern over importation of fruit flies. While it is now legal to import the fruit, before you ship, it must be irradiated to make sure there are no fruit flies present. Documentation of this process must be presented before fruit will be allowed into the US. Here is a helpful link with some FAQs about what is needed. When you're ready to purchase a bond, we can help. You can buy it easily right through our website, or you can chat with us for more help.
i want to import snacks like potatoe chips, cassava chips, arracacha chips, and plantain chips and trail mixes of nuts, as well. What are the steps knowing that i dont have any company so i have to create one, and what is the spending time or lead time to achive this goal?
The regulations for importing foods like the ones you mentioned are different if you are a business than if you're importing for personal use. When you're ready to start importing for your company, feel free to chat with one of our import specialists by clicking on the bottom right corner of the page and we can help you through the process.
Can you reach out to me on enail i have juice import questions
You can use our chat feature in the bottom right corner of the page to speak to one of our import specialists. They will answer any of your questions there. Thank you for reaching out.