LeavingLondon

Hi. Our shipping company are packing up a couple of boxes in 2 weeks to send by air (the shipment left a few weeks ago). They said that we should avoid bringing any food as the US are very strict. I really want to bring some crisps and biscuits and chocolate with me. Would I therefore be better bringing them in my luggage when I fly over or will that also be frowned upon?

Pulaski

Shippers don't like most food because it tends to attract rodents. So far as foods go, the biggest issue for the US is that most animal products, including ALL beef products, from the UK and Europe are prohibited whether shipped or in your hand luggage

rpjs

I've never had a problem bringing food of that ilk in - just tick the "food" box on the customs form and tell the officer what it is - you may get sent to secondary customs for a quick bag check but more likely not. I've also had that sort of food mailed over from the UK and so long as the customs form describes what sort of food it is (i.e. put "Potato chips, cookies, chocolate" not simply "food") it shouldn't be a problem.

Speedwell

Seconding that. My form typically says "Candy, tea, cookies, Scotch". They ask me how much I'm bringing, I tell them how much and say I know I probably owe some duty, and half the time get waved right through anyway.

Bob

Won't have a problem bringing that stuff over.

Now it's summer though, chocolates probably aren't a good idea.

LeavingLondon

Thanks all!! Will stick it in my luggage instead. Good point re chocolate.