Did you know that a single mango could get your entire package confiscated at U.S. customs? Many people try sending food from India to the USA without knowing the risks. From surprise restrictions to documentation you didn’t know you needed, this guide unpacks the essential dos and don’ts of shipping edible items overseas.

Research Before You Ship

Before sending anything, take a moment to look up the latest U.S. rules for your food items. These guidelines can change quickly if there’s a health alert or other concern. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website and FDA resources are good references. If a certain ingredient or product has any doubt, verify its admissibility before packing it.

Exclude Prohibited Items

This sounds obvious, but double-check that your package contains nothing from the “no-go” list (fresh produce, raw meats, etc.). One forbidden item can jeopardize the entire shipment. It’s better to leave out that risky homemade achar with mango pieces and stick to a commercially sealed pickle that’s allowed, for example.

Provide Complete and Honest Documentation

When filling out customs forms or invoices, be specific and truthful. Don’t write vague terms like “food stuff” or, worse, try to mislabel food as something else (e.g. “documents” or “gifts”) as that can be considered smuggling or fraud. Clearly list each type of food and quantity. If it’s a gift, make that clear. If you’re sending it for yourself, mention that too. Being honest with the details helps your package move faster through customs. If the shipping form has a field for it, you can also add the FDA Prior Notice confirmation number (for commercial shipments) or any permit numbers you have.

Don’t Hide or Commingle Restricted Items

If you must include something slightly questionable (say a small packet of homemade sweets), don’t try to bury it or hide it among other items. Declare it properly. Misleading customs by concealing food items can lead to seizures and fines. Remember, all agricultural items must be declared on entry to the U.S. Failure to declare can result in penalties up to $300 for first-time offenses, even for travelers. The same principle applies to shipped goods.

Proper Packaging and Cleanliness

Make sure nothing in your package leaks or smells from the outside. If customs notices anything suspicious, like a stain or a strong odor, they’ll probably open it and might throw things away. Use sturdy containers and wrap things like pickles or powders as noted in the packaging section. A well-packed box that survives the journey intact will sail through inspection more easily.

Attach Supporting Certificates if Available

Whenever possible, include any relevant certificates such as a phytosanitary report for spices or lab test results for packaged items in a clearly labeled envelope on the outside of your shipment. Pair it with your invoice. This precaution isn’t always mandatory for personal parcels but can help establish safety compliance, especially in commercial exports. Documents like a Health Certificate or Certificate of Origin can support smoother customs clearance.

Mark Gifts Clearly and Keep Value Reasonable

If it’s a personal gift, explicitly label it as a gift on the customs form. Also, keep the declared value realistic and not excessively high for gifts. A very high value on a “gift” could raise suspicion that it’s actually a commercial shipment. (Additionally, gifts to the U.S. under $100 in value are usually duty-free, whereas expensive gifts may incur import duty.)

Plan for Customs Duties (Taxes)

Speaking of duties, know that if your shipment’s value exceeds the duty-free threshold, the recipient (or you, depending on arrangement) may have to pay import duties or fees. Currently, the general de minimis threshold is $800 (meaning shipments valued below that often enter duty-free), but for gifts person-to-person, the duty-free limit is $100. If you are a business, be prepared for duties on larger shipments and factor that into your costs. To avoid surprises, you can use Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping via couriers so that you pay any duties upfront.

Use a Reliable Shipping Partner

If you’re a business, work with couriers or freight forwarders who have experience in food exports. They can guide you on documentation and help preempt issues. Even individuals can benefit from the expertise of reputable courier services (they often provide guidance on how to fill forms for food items). A good freight forwarder will ensure all regulatory requirements are met on your behalf.

Also Read: First Time in America? These US Foods for Indians Are Worth Trying

Track Your Shipment

Always use a service with tracking. Monitor the tracking, and if you see a delay or a customs hold, contact the courier immediately to see if they need additional information. Sometimes customs may request the receiver to provide information or an invoice for valuation. Being responsive can prevent the package from being returned or destroyed.

Be Compliant, Not Clever

The most important rule is to follow the regulations instead of looking for ways around them. The goal is to get your tasty goods delivered, not confiscated. U.S. agencies allow a wide variety of foods, as long as you follow their procedures. So, no matter how tempting, don’t slip that forbidden item in. It’s not worth the risk of the whole package being thrown out or you facing a fine.

Stick to these best practices, and your package is much more likely to pass through U.S. customs without any trouble. Many people successfully send Indian foods abroad every day. The difference between a success story and a horror story is usually just careful adherence to the regulations.

While Indian Eagle helps you find the best deals on flights between India and USA, this guide ensures your food parcels can safely make the same journey by following the right customs rules.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Indian food items are allowed to be sent to the USA
You can send non-perishable, commercially packaged items like snacks, dry spices (without seeds), lentils, tea, coffee, and sweets. Items must be sealed and shelf-stable. 

Can I send homemade food to the USA from India?
Yes, but only in small quantities and as a personal gift. Homemade food should be properly sealed, labeled, and not contain meat or dairy.

What foods are strictly prohibited by U.S. customs?
Fresh fruits and vegetables, raw meats, dairy products, eggs, seeds, and any food containing meat or meat extracts are strictly prohibited.

Do I need to declare food items when shipping to the USA?
Yes. All food items must be clearly declared on customs forms. Mislabeling or hiding items can lead to fines or confiscation.

Do I need any certificates or documents to send food to the USA?
You may need a commercial invoice, FDA Prior Notice (for business shipments), and sometimes a phytosanitary or health certificate for certain products.

Can I ship pickles or chutneys to the USA?
Yes, if they are commercially packaged, sealed, and shelf-stable. Homemade versions should be sent only as personal gifts and declared properly.

Is it safe to send sweets like laddus, barfi, or dry mithai
Dry sweets with no dairy or moisture content are generally allowed if they are well-packaged and declared. Avoid perishable items.

Do I have to pay customs duty for sending food to the USA?
Gifts under $100 are usually duty-free. For commercial shipments or higher-value items, duties may apply based on U.S. customs rules.

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