The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates imports of meat, poultry, milk and related products, along with fresh and frozen produce. The USDA also is concerned with pest infestation in import shipments, giving it the authority to hold up and inspect ANY import shipment. The USDA also must be satisfied before any merchandise is delivered from the terminal at the unloading port. We are experts in dealing with the special requirements of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. As is the case with the Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Customs, the USDA is less likely perform unnecessary inspections of merchandise if all of the necessary paperwork is in place prior to vessel arrival. We send advance paperwork to USDA via overnight courier two days prior to vessel arrival. We also coordinate product examination, fumigation and release with the USDA before the vessel arrives. U.S. Department of Agriculture enforcement has increased significantly since last year and will continue to due so as it is now part of the newly created Department of Homeland Security.

Should you have a question about whether your product is subject to U.S. Department of Agriculture restrictions or has special import requirements, we recommend you review the information on the USDA website or contact us at our offices.