What must I declare at US customs and what is the CBP declaration form?
The short answer
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) says all travellers entering the United States must declare meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and animals. On CBP Declaration Form 6059B you tick Yes at Question 11 for agricultural items. Undeclared prohibited items are confiscated and civil penalties can apply.
The agricultural declaration rule
CBP states that all travellers entering the United States are required to declare meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and animals. The requirement covers items in checked bags, carry-on luggage or a vehicle.
This page covers the agricultural side of the declaration. CBP publishes separate guidance on duty-free allowances and on money, which this page does not cover.
Using CBP Form 6059B
CBP says to check Yes on Question 11 of CBP Declaration Form 6059B if you are bringing agricultural items. It also says to check Yes if you have been on a farm or near livestock, because officers may inspect shoes or luggage for soil.
Declaring an item does not mean it will be refused. It means an officer can inspect it and decide.
What is allowed and what is not
CBP gives the following guidance on the main categories.
- Food: many fresh, dried and some canned meats are prohibited because of animal diseases. Meat from restricted countries used as an ingredient, such as in broth, usually makes a product prohibited. Soup and soup products must also be declared.
- Plants: some fruits, vegetables and plants may enter without advance permission if they are declared and pass inspection. Plant parts meant for growing need a foreign phytosanitary certificate in advance.
- Soil: not allowed without a permit, though pure sand is usually permitted.
- Animals: live animals and birds can enter with certification, certain permits and inspection, and the rules vary by animal type and origin. Hunting trophies, game carcasses and hides are severely restricted.
Penalties and checking the rules
CBP says undeclared prohibited items are confiscated and destroyed. It adds that civil penalties may apply, quoted as up to $1,000 per first-time offence for non-commercial quantities, with commercial violations assessed at a much higher rate.
CBP notes that these rules change often, and lists USDA APHIS contacts for plant and veterinary questions. Rules and fees change, so check the official page linked below before you travel.
Sources: CBP: Bringing agricultural products into the United States. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to declare food I bring to the US?
CBP says all travellers must declare meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and animals. Declaring lets an officer inspect and decide whether the item can enter.
Which question on Form 6059B covers food and plants?
CBP says to tick Yes at Question 11 for agricultural items.
Should I declare it if I have been on a farm?
Yes. CBP says to tick Yes if you have been on a farm or near livestock, as officers may inspect footwear or luggage for soil.
What is the penalty for not declaring?
CBP says undeclared prohibited items are confiscated and destroyed, and civil penalties may apply, quoted as up to $1,000 per first-time offence for non-commercial quantities.
Can I bring soup or broth?
CBP says soup and soup products must be declared, and meat from restricted countries used as an ingredient usually makes a product prohibited.
Does the same rule apply to UK and EU visitors?
The CBP page applies to all travellers entering the United States, so yes.