What Are the Steps to Import Perishables Through U.S. Ports?

Importing perishable goods—such as seafood, dairy, produce, and meats—into the U.S. is a delicate and highly regulated process. With strict requirements from agencies like the USDA, FDA, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), businesses must ensure every step is handled with precision. In this blog, we break down the key steps to help importers manage the journey of perishables from port to shelf while maintaining product integrity.

Step 1: Classify the Perishable Product

Start by identifying the exact type of perishable product you're importing. Whether it's frozen seafood, fresh vegetables, or dairy products, each category may be regulated by different government bodies:

FDA handles most food products.

USDA oversees meat, poultry, and egg products.

APHIS is involved when importing plants or plant-based items.

Make sure you check import eligibility and any country-specific restrictions.

Step 2: Obtain Permits and Pre-Approvals

You must secure the correct import permits and provide prior notice where applicable. Common requirements include:

FDA Prior Notice for all food items

USDA Import Permit for meat, poultry, or plants

Health and origin certificates from the country of export

Failure to provide documentation can lead to delays or denial of entry at the port.

Step 3: Maintain the Cold Chain

For perishable imports, temperature control is critical. Goods should be shipped in refrigerated containers (reefers) to ensure product safety.

Upon arrival in the U.S., partner with a cold storage facility near the port—like Royal Foods Distribution in Santa Clara, California—to prevent spoilage during inspection or transport delays.

Step 4: Work With a Licensed Customs Broker

A customs broker will help you:

File necessary customs entries (CBP Forms 3461 and 7501)

Classify products for duties and tariffs

Schedule required inspections with USDA or FDA

Ensure compliance with Import Security Filing (ISF) and other protocols

Step 5: Clear Port Inspection and Compliance

Once your goods arrive at a U.S. port:

CBP will review paperwork and may inspect the shipment

FDA or USDA may perform physical inspections

Any missing or incorrect documentation could delay the release

A cold storage provider with inspection coordination experience can streamline this process.

Step 6: Arrange for Drayage and Storage

After release, your products must be moved quickly and safely:

Use drayage services with refrigerated trucks to transport goods from the port

Store them in a certified cold storage warehouse until distribution

Royal Foods provides reefer drayage, FDA/USDA coordination, and storage under one roof for optimal efficiency.

Step 7: Final Delivery and Distribution

Once products are cleared and safely stored, you're ready to:

Ship to retail stores, food processors, or end-users

Ensure traceability and recordkeeping for future audits or recalls

Conclusion

Importing perishables through U.S. ports demands careful attention to compliance, temperature control, and timing. By partnering with experienced cold chain providers and customs experts, businesses can minimize risk and deliver fresh, safe products to market.