Importing Food from China to the USA: FDA and Freight Checklist
What must be ready before a food shipment leaves China?
Start with the exact product and shipment
Food is both cargo and a regulated product. A transport booking does not replace food-facility, prior-notice, labeling, entry or importer responsibilities.
Make the handoff actionable
Ask the US importer and food-regulatory specialist to confirm product category, facility details, prior-notice filer, temperature needs, packaging and receiving conditions before booking. Share the confirmed handling profile with the carrier.
Confirm the boundary before cargo moves
Do not describe a food shipment as ordinary general cargo or assume FDA pre-approves an importer or label. FDA may inspect or detain a noncompliant shipment.
Prepare a quote request
Include the product name and model, supplier city and pickup address, destination ZIP code, cargo-ready date, total pieces, packed dimensions and gross weight. State whether freight is palletized, stackable, temperature-sensitive or subject to special handling. For regulated or restricted goods, attach the current product documents and request written carrier review before delivery to the warehouse. Review the [relevant ANELGO service page](/) and send the details through the [shipment inquiry form](../index.html#quote).
Related guides
- FDA Prior Notice for Food Imports: What Freight Teams Need Before Arrival
- FSVP and Freight: Roles to Confirm Before Shipping Food from China
- Who Files FDA Prior Notice for a US Food Import? Roles for Buyers to Confirm
- Browse all shipping guides