Everything You Need To Know About Shipping Food From India To The USA Legally

Thinking about flying out food items from India to the USA? Flyopedia will tell you all about it. Though it is not a cakewalk in the park, but honestly? It is not that complicated either! All you need to understand are the basic rules. These are usually common in all airlines, but we recommend doing additional research for the airline you are flying with. Just take care to do this before you grab cheap flight tickets from USA to India with us. This will help you finalise your shipping decisions and steer it in the right direction.

Customs Regulations And Guidelines For Sending Indian Food To The USA

You might be thinking about sending a care package to your loved ones living far away from you. Or it might be familiar flavors mixed with familial love. it could be anything from Mom’s handmade pickles or Granny’s flavorful papads. The aromatic spices remind you of home, especially when you are in a far away land.

Though it seems poetic and magical on paper, in real life, it makes you miss home tremendously. This is why you need to know such stuff. Not only can you enjoy the fruits of your labor, you can also teach them to your family when you ask them to send homemade food items.

What Can You Send?

Packaged & Processed Foods

All types of packaged and processed foods are allowed to be shipped from India legally. Think anything ranging from chips and biscuits to cookies and rice. These are all allowed as long as they are sealed in their original packaging. This means company made packaging instead of the homemade style.

Dry Foods

Ever thought why you can send packets of nuts, lentils, beans, dried fruits, spices, and herbs, etc.? That’s because they all can be shipped if they are commercially packed. Most things can be allowed if they are properly sealed.

What Is Not Allowed?

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

All fresh fruits and veggies cannot be shipped. They are restricted due to the risk of pests and diseases.

Meat & Dairy Products

Strict USDA regulations apply to all dairy and meat products. Not to mention that you would need cold storage as well so it doesn’t get spoiled. We recommend you to avoid sending these unless they meet specific guidelines.

Homemade Foods with Meat or Dairy

As mentioned before, there are too many rules and USDA regulations to bother. That includes any homemade items containing meat or dairy. They are all usually not permitted.

Canned Meat & Fish

These are highly regulated as well. So, it is best to avoid shipping them unless you are sure they comply with the rules.

How to Pack and Send Indian Snacks & Food Items?

Label Everything Clearly

Every food item must have a label showing the product name, ingredients, and manufacturer details. This only applies to company manufactured products, not homemade. If you want to avoid the trouble, just grab tickets to India from USA from us and visit them. Then you can cook for them personally!

Check Expiration Dates

All food must have valid expiration dates. This is not a rule, but just to ensure they are fresh upon arrival. You wouldn’t want your loved ones to receive expired items, will you?

Use Proper Packaging

Keep items in their original, sealed packaging and use bubble wrap to prevent damage or spills during transit.

Customs Rules for Shipping Food to the USA

• Fill Out a Customs Declaration Form: List all food items, including type, quantity, and estimated value.
• Be Honest About Contents: Do not mislabel food as “herbal medicine” or “remedies” unless it truly falls under that category.
• Accurate Declarations: This helps avoid fines, shipment delays, or confiscation by customs.

Permits & Certifications

Some food items require extra documents before shipping.

• Phytosanitary Certificate: Needed for plant – based items like herbs and spices to confirm they are pest – free.
• FDA Approval: If shipping herbal products or traditional medicines, they must be FDA – approved to ensure safety.

Custom Duties & Charges

• If the shipment value exceeds $100, customs duties may apply.
• Charges are based on the food type and total value, so check the latest customs rules for accurate costs.

Concluding with Best Shipping Methods for Sending Food to the USA

• USPS First Class International: The most budget friendly option for small, non-perishable food packets.
• Courier Services (FedEx, UPS, DHL): Best for secure and fast delivery but can be expensive.
• Air Freight: Ideal for bulk shipments with fast delivery, though additional charges may apply.

So, when are you sending your care package? Better yet, surprise your loved ones by gifting them with tickets after you grab last minute flight deals to India from USA from us! They can come and visit you in person. After all, nothing matters more than the love you share!