There are a few things you can do on your end to ensure smooth processing and customs clearance of your sample submission. 

For “lab test only” food samples to United States, please confirm that your samples will be labelled properly, and documents include the below at least 2 weeks prior to physical shipping.

 

  • Samples Must be Labelled:  R&D/QA Testing Samples Only, Food Not for Human Consumption or Commercial Use
  • Documents Must State:  R&D/QA Testing Samples Only, Food Not for Human Consumption or Commercial Use

Required Documents

  • Import Permit (see below)
  • Prior Notice Form (see below)
  • Heat Treatment Certificate, if applicable
  • Sample Description and List of Ingredients, including any animal-origin ingredient with sourcing country
  • Commercial/Proforma Invoice with INCO terms
  • Original manufacturer’s statement to meet import permit condition, if required 
  • Statement of Packaging material immediately in contact with food product 

Permits:

Depending on the type of sample being shipped, you may need to include permit(s) for importation.

Please contact our Customer Service and Quality Assurance groups using the below form to request the correct permit for use.

 

Prior Notice Form:

This must be sent before the shipment departs. Complete this form by visiting the FDA website following the step-by-step guide.

A confirmation copy must then be sent to UPS at upsnestleair@ups.com with all other required documents before shipment arrival in the US.

 

Proforma/Commercial Invoice:

Please include the following information on your proforma/commercial invoice to help facilitate successful customs clearance:

Importer of Record:

Nestle USA, Inc

1812 N. Moore Street
Arlington, VA 22209
Ship to:

NQAC Dublin

6625 Eiterman Rd.
Dublin, Oh 43016
Notify Party/Broker:

UPS Customs Brokerage Rep

1201 W. Olympic Blvd 3rd Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90015

Email: Nestle Air: upsnestleAir@ups.com

 

Additionally, some couriers have an option to select “Broker Turnover” during booking, however this is not as reliable as the process listed above.