FDA prior notice checklist for food shipments
Prior notice is required before arrival. Use this checklist to avoid the most common submission gaps.
1. Submit before arrival
Confirm the submission timing rule by mode: air, rail, truck, or vessel. Late submissions can trigger refusal or hold.
2. Confirm manufacturer, shipper, and consignee fields
Name, address, and contact should be consistent across the bill of lading and FDA prior notice.
3. Harmonized product details first
Prior notice asks for article/commodity, manufacturer info, and growing location. Have HTS and product details ready.
4. Save confirmation numbers
Keep the FDA confirmation number with your shipment docs. If CBP or FDA asks, you want it on file.
Shortcut:
Start with HTS lookup to make sure the article code and duty details are correct before FDA submission.
Open HTS Lookup →