Coffee beans at the border
The broker needs to know what kind of coffee it is, how it was processed, where it came from, how it is packaged, and which food-import requirements apply.
The four-step journey
Trace roasted or green coffee through product description, origin, food data, agency review, customs entry, and release.
- Supplier documents the coffee
- Food and entry data are transmitted
- CBP and FDA screen the shipment
- Release or examination follows
What the broker checks
- Green, roasted, decaffeinated, or prepared
- FDA facility and prior-notice needs
- Origin, value, quantity, and packaging
Why it matters
A food shipment is a customs entry plus a food-compliance event.
- Prior notice: Advance information FDA may require before imported food arrives.
Official sources
- USITC — Harmonized Tariff Schedule
- FDA — Importing Food Products
- FDA — Import Basics