Importing fresh produce from Mexico through Otay Mesa, step by step

Fresh produce is one of the most time-sensitive loads that cross from Mexico into the United States. Every hour at the border reduces shelf life. For growers in Baja California and importers in San Diego, getting the paperwork right before the truck leaves is what keeps product fresh and buyers happy.

The problem

Fruits and vegetables are checked by more than one agency. Besides U.S. Customs, the FDA, the USDA and CBP agriculture specialists can inspect the load. A missing permit, a prior notice that was not filed or a product that does not meet grade standards can hold a truck, and a held truck of produce loses value fast.

What you need before the truck crosses

• FDA registration for the facilities that handle the product.
• FDA Prior Notice for every commercial food shipment. CBP will not release the load without it, and the confirmation number should appear on the shipping documents.
• USDA admissibility. Check that your product can enter from Mexico and through which ports, and get the phytosanitary certificate from Mexico.
• Grade and quality rules. Some products must meet the same standards as U.S. produce and be inspected by USDA.
• The customs entry, prepared and filed by a licensed customs broker.

The solution, step by step

1. Confirm the product and its requirements with your broker before the season starts.
2. Send the commercial invoice and phytosanitary certificate before the truck leaves the field or packing house.
3. File the FDA Prior Notice and the customs entry ahead of arrival.
4. Plan where the load goes after the border: straight to the buyer, or to a warehouse near the border for receiving, inspection and staging.
5. Coordinate the final delivery so the product keeps moving.

Tip: seasonal programs run smoother when the documents, dock appointments and transport are planned before the first harvest load.

How IEL can help

IEL works with growers, importers and distributors moving produce through Otay Mesa. From our facility minutes from the port of entry, we handle the customs entry, receive and inspect the product, stage pallets, cross-dock and coordinate delivery to your buyers. One team, on both sides of the border, for seasonal and year-round programs.