Agency guide
FDA regulated products import checklist
A freight planning checklist for FDA-regulated products, including food, cosmetics, medical devices, drugs, and radiation-emitting electronic products.
What to identify
- Confirm whether the product may fall under FDA review before pickup.
- Separate food, cosmetics, medical devices, drugs, tobacco, animal feed, and radiation-emitting electronic products.
- Prepare manufacturer, product, label, intended use, quantity, and importer information.
Why it matters
- FDA-regulated goods may need additional review before release.
- A shipment may be delayed if product identity, labels, or importer context are unclear.
- Document readiness affects route timing, warehouse planning, and receiver expectations.
Useful inquiry notes
- State the product category and intended use.
- Flag samples, returns, repairs, or low-value shipments.
- Share label status, product codes, or prior import history if available.
Planning questions
Who should use this agency guide?
Importers, exporters, manufacturers, buyers, and operations teams can use it before quoting, booking, routing, or handing cargo to a carrier.
Does this replace a broker, agency, or compliance professional?
No. It is a freight planning aid that helps teams organize the facts and questions they should confirm with the right responsible party.
Official sources
- FDA - Importing FDA Regulated Products
source_url: https://www.fda.gov/industry/import-program/importing-fda-regulated-products - FDA - Import Basics
source_url: https://www.fda.gov/industry/import-program-food-and-drug-administration-fda/import-basics