Checklist — What to Know Before Importing Food Products from Peru to the U.S.
Importing food products from Peru can open up exciting opportunities for U.S. businesses — but it also comes with responsibility. Meeting regulatory, safety, and logistical standards correctly is crucial. Use this checklist to navigate the process and avoid common pitfalls.
1. Confirm Supplier Registration & Compliance
Before importing any food items, ensure your Peruvian supplier is properly registered and compliant with export standards.
The facility should comply with local sanitary and safety regulations.
Ask for documentation proving safe handling, sanitary processing, and proper storage.
Confirm that the supplier is experienced in export shipping — not all local producers are equipped for international trade.
Why it matters: Under U.S. regulations, mislabeling, sanitation issues, or export oversights can lead to rejected shipments, fines, or delays at customs.
2. Verify Packaging and Shelf‑Life Suitability
Food products must be packaged to endure long shipping times — sometimes weeks at sea or in transit — without compromising quality or safety.
Use sealed, food-grade packaging.
For perishable items, consider moisture or temperature control (if required).
Ensure labels are durable and include production or expiration dates, especially for long-shelf-life items.
Proper packaging prevents spoilage, infestation, or contamination — protecting both end consumers and your reputation.
3. Understand HS Codes, Tariffs & Duties
Assigning the correct Harmonized System (HS) code to your food product is essential for customs clearance and duty calculation.
HS codes determine tariff rates, regulatory requirements, and whether the product needs special documentation.
Misclassification can result in fines, delays, or even rejection at U.S. ports.
Consult with your customs broker or sourcing partner (like WIDE) if you’re unsure about HS classification.
4. Meet U.S. Labeling & FDA Requirements
For imported food products, U.S. laws require clear labeling, including:
Product name, ingredients, nutritional facts, serving sizes, weight or volume
Allergen warnings (if applicable)
Country of origin labeling (“Product of Peru”)
English-language labeling (or bilingual when appropriate)
Failing to comply with these guidelines can cause your shipment to be held, or even refused, by regulators.
5. Stay Updated on Import Alerts & Safety Restrictions
Some food categories — especially exotic or native ingredients — may fall under periodic safety alerts, import bans, or restrictions.
Check regulatory databases (FDA, USDA, etc.) for alerts on specific food items.
For high-risk items: prepare additional documentation, lab certificates, or health certifications.
Work closely with a sourcing partner who monitors compliance updates and can guide you through changing regulations.
6. Plan Proper Shipping & Logistics
Logistics is more than simply shipping — it’s about safe transit, traceability, and timing.
Decide between air freight (faster, costlier) and sea freight (slower, economical) depending on the nature of the food product.
Choose reliable carriers with experience in food shipping.
Ensure all shipping documents (invoices, packing lists, certificates) are complete and accurate to avoid customs delays.
7. Use a Trusted Sourcing & Import Partner
For many small businesses, handling all these steps on their own is challenging — and risky. That’s where a partner like WIDE adds value:
We vet suppliers and verify compliance before shipment.
We coordinate logistics and customs clearance.
We help you avoid costly mistakes and save you time, while ensuring products arrive safely and legally.
Final Thoughts Before You Import
Importing food products from Peru can give your business access to unique items and high quality — but it comes with responsibilities. With the right planning, compliance, and a trustworthy sourcing partner, you can launch and grow with confidence.
If you’re ready to explore importing food from Peru, let’s talk — and we’ll help you get started the right way.
