FDA Prior Notice for DHL, FedEx and UPS Shipments

Food sent to the U.S. by DHL, FedEx or UPS needs FDA Prior Notice like any air shipment: FDA must confirm it at least 4 hours before arrival. Couriers are not "international mail". FedEx states a Prior Notice confirmation must accompany any food shipment; DHL asks for the number or the required data at pickup.

What to do

• File Prior Notice yourself, through a service like ours, or let the courier file where it offers to
• Give the confirmation number to the courier at booking
• Small quantities and samples are not exempt

Common problems

• Wrong FDA product code or common name
• Missing manufacturer food facility registration number
• Arrival time too close to the deadline

Related: FDA renewal deadline calendar · Do I need a U.S. Agent? · US Agent Desk pricing

General information, not legal advice. Last reviewed October 21, 2026.