Predeparture

What you pack can hide invasive pests. Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have plant pests not established in the continental United States, including fruit flies, scale insects, beetles and mealybugs that are a threat to agriculture on the mainland. As a result, U.S. regulations restrict the movement of pest host material from the islands. APHIS’ predeparture inspection program facilitates the movement of travelers, baggage, mail and cargo to prevent the introduction of these harmful and invasive pests. 

Here are three simple things you can do to help:  

1.   Contact your local USDA office before packing your bags to find out which fruits, vegetables, live plants, cut flowers (including leis) and handicrafts made from wood or natural materials are safe to take to the U.S. mainland.

2.   At the airport, tell the USDA inspector if you have any fruits, vegetables or plants in your bags. They will check to make sure they are free of potentially devastating pests and diseases.

3.   Don’t mail fruits, vegetables or plants to the U.S. mainland, until you first check with your local USDA office to find out what’s allowed.

Additional Information