How to Import Fruit to Another State

Selling fruit from one state to another is regulated by several government entities.

The movement of goods, such as produce, from one state to another is known as interstate commerce, which is the sale, purchase or exchange of commodities between states. The nature of the climate and soil in the U.S. makes it so that certain types of produce grow well in one region while not growing at all in others. In order to get certain produce in an area of the country it doesn't grow, it has to be exchanged with another state via sale or trade. There are certain rules and laws that must be observed before you can legally send fruit to another state.

Instructions

1. Check with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), both of which regulate interstate commerce concerning fruit. Certain fruits and vegetables cannot be shipped between states due to the possibility of either parasites and diseases. Verify that the state where your intended sale is taking place allows specific fruit to be shipped. Check with the county extension office or the state department of agriculture for the city you are shipping to as they should be able to answer any questions as well.

2. Consider partnering with a food hub in your area, which is designed to help local small and midsize farm operations move product such as fruit from the farm to the marketplace quickly and efficiently.

3. Arrange for shipping. Package the fruit securely in crush-proof containers with plenty of packing material to cushion against any damage or rough handling. Individually package any fruit that has soft skin or can easily be bruised. Securely attach the shipping label to the outside of the box. Place another copy of the label inside the box in case of damage. Include a complete content list in case your package is inspected.

4. Mark the box on all sides as having contents that are perishable. Arrange for next-day shipping delivery if possible and arrange for tracking information on your package.

5. Contact a trucking company to pick up and deliver your fruit if selling in bulk. Include packing lists, bills of lading and commercial invoices in case the truck is pulled over by the CBP for a roadside inspection.

References

• United States Department of Agriculture; NIFA; State & National Partners
• USLegal: Interstate Commerce Law & Legal Definition
• U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Customs and Border Protection; Prohibited and Restricted Items
• United States Department of Agriculture: Agricultural Marketing Service

Resources

• United States Department of Agriculture; Agricultural Marketing Service; Commodity Areas
• United States Department of Agriculture; Agricultural Marketing Service; Working List of Food Hubs