What Prior Notice addresses
FDA generally requires advance notification of imported food shipments unless an exemption applies. The notification concerns the shipment; it is not the same as registering a food facility or meeting an importer’s FSVP responsibilities.
For food arriving by water, FDA must receive and confirm Prior Notice at least 8 hours before arrival at the first US port. Agree an earlier working cut-off with the filing party; this arrival-based deadline is separate from CBP’s loading-based ISF deadline.
Plan the filing window
Prior Notice may be submitted through FDA’s PNSI no more than 15 calendar days before anticipated arrival, or through CBP’s ABI/ACS no more than 30 calendar days before arrival. The responsible filer should confirm the applicable submission system and keep the arrival details current.
FDA Prior Notice timing guidanceOrganise information early
- A precise product list and the relevant manufacturer information.
- Quantities and pack format that agree with the commercial records.
- Shipment and transport details as they become confirmed.
- Importer, consignee and contact information requested by the responsible filer.
Use one reconciled set of shipment information. If the product quantity or transport arrangement changes, tell the filing party so it can determine whether a correction or further action is needed.
Coordinate the filing with freight
Identify the responsible filer and its cut-off before booking. Ask how the notification confirmation will be communicated to the importer and broker. Do not assume the forwarding team, factory and broker each think someone else is doing the same task.
A correctly organised filing does not promise entry release. An authority may still review the product or request additional information. The shipping plan should include a practical contact process if that happens.
Keep the tasks separate
| Task | Focus |
|---|---|
| Facility registration | The facility and its registration obligations. |
| Prior Notice | Notification of the particular food shipment. |
| FSVP | Applicable importer supplier-verification responsibilities. |
| Customs and ISF | Entry and ocean security filing requirements. |
Use the shipment document checklist to collect your preparation records.