HOW TO IMPORT ETHIOPIAN SPECIALTY COFFEE TO THE UNITED STATES: COMPLETE GUIDE
A complete guide to importing Ethiopian specialty coffee to the United States, covering regulations, documentation, logistics, and costs
Dec 20, 2025
The United States is one of the world's largest coffee consumers, and Ethiopian specialty coffee has become increasingly popular among American roasters and consumers. Whether you're a specialty roaster, importer, or coffee entrepreneur, understanding how to import Ethiopian coffee to the US is essential for building a successful supply chain.
This comprehensive guide walks through every step of the import process, from finding an Ethiopian coffee exporter like Ethio Coffee to clearing US customs and storing green beans in your warehouse.
Key Takeaway: Importing Ethiopian coffee to the United States is straightforward when you understand FDA regulations, have the right documentation, and work with an experienced Ethiopian coffee export partner. No import licenses required for green coffee.
Why Import Ethiopian Coffee to the United States?
Ethiopian coffee commands premium prices in the US specialty market for good reason:
- Unique flavor profiles: Floral Yirgacheffe, fruity Sidamo, wine-like Harrar origins that stand out on any menu
- Consumer demand: American consumers recognize and seek out Ethiopian single-origin offerings
- Quality reputation: Ethiopia's ECX grading system and specialty focus ensure consistent quality
- Direct trade opportunities: Build relationships with Ethiopian exporters for better margins and storytelling
- Competitive pricing: Ethiopian coffee offers excellent value compared to other African origins
Step 1: Understanding US Coffee Import Regulations
The good news: importing green coffee to the United States is relatively straightforward compared to many other food products.
What You Need to Know
- No FDA Pre-Approval Required: Green (unroasted) coffee does not require FDA pre-market approval or prior notice for most shipments
- No Import License: You don't need a special license to import coffee anyone can do it
- USDA/APHIS Clearance: Coffee must be inspected for agricultural pests at port of entry
- FDA Registration: If you plan to roast/process the coffee, you may need FDA food facility registration
- Customs Bond: Required for clearing customs (can be single-entry or continuous)
Key US Agencies Involved
- US Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Handles customs clearance, duties, and tariffs
- USDA APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service): Inspects for plant pests and diseases
- FDA (Food and Drug Administration): Oversees food safety regulations (minimal for green coffee)
Step 2: Finding a Reliable Ethiopian Coffee Exporter
Your choice of Ethiopian coffee export partner is critical. Look for exporters who understand US market requirements and can provide complete documentation.
What to Look For in an Ethiopian Exporter
- ECX Registration: Ensures legal compliance and quality standards
- US Export Experience: Familiarity with US documentation and port requirements
- Sample Programs: Ability to send cupping samples before container commitment
- Quality Reports: Detailed cupping notes, defect counts, and moisture analysis
- Responsive Communication: English-speaking contact who understands time zones
- FOB Shipping: Can handle logistics from Djibouti port
At Ethio Coffee Export PLC, we specialize in Ethiopian coffee export to the United States. We handle all origin-side logistics, provide complete documentation, and work with US importers to ensure smooth customs clearance.
Step 3: Required Documentation for US Import
Proper documentation is essential for smooth customs clearance. Your Ethiopian coffee exporter should provide these documents:
From Ethiopian Exporter
- Commercial Invoice: Itemized list of goods, quantities, prices, FOB value
- Packing List: Details of bags, weights, container number
- Bill of Lading (BOL): Shipping document from freight forwarder
- Phytosanitary Certificate: Issued by Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture confirming pest-free status
- ICO Certificate of Origin: International Coffee Organization certificate proving Ethiopian origin
- ECX Quality Certificate: Grading report (G1, G2, etc.) and quality specifications
- Certificate of Origin: Can be used for preferential duty rates under AGOA
US-Side Requirements
- Customs Bond: Single-entry or continuous bond (through customs broker)
- Entry Summary (CBP Form 7501): Filed by customs broker
- USDA APHIS Clearance: Agricultural inspection at port
- Importer of Record Number: Your business EIN or SSN
- Power of Attorney: If using a customs broker
Pro Tip: Work with an experienced customs broker for your first few shipments. They handle documentation, customs clearance, and ensure compliance with US regulations. Cost is typically $150-400 per container.
Step 4: Shipping & Logistics from Ethiopia to USA
Most Ethiopian coffee exports to the US ship in containers via the Port of Djibouti.
Shipping Options
20ft Container (FCL - Full Container Load)
Capacity: Approximately 18,000-19,200 kg (300-320 bags of 60kg each)
Best for: Importers ordering 250+ bags, or multiple smaller buyers consolidating
40ft Container (FCL)
Capacity: Approximately 21,600-24,000 kg (360-400 bags of 60kg each)
Best for: Larger roasters or importers with multiple SKUs
LCL (Less than Container Load)
For smaller quantities (under 200 bags)
Higher per-kg cost but allows smaller test orders
Transit Times & Routes
- Djibouti to US East Coast (New York/New Jersey): 25-35 days
- Djibouti to US West Coast (Los Angeles/Oakland): 30-40 days via Suez Canal
- Djibouti to US Gulf Coast (Houston/New Orleans): 30-40 days
Add 1-2 weeks for inland transport from Ethiopia to Djibouti, customs clearance, and container stuffing.
Step 5: US Port of Entry & Customs Clearance
Once your container arrives at a US port, it goes through customs clearance before you can take possession.
- Container Arrival & ISF Filing
Your customs broker files ISF (Importer Security Filing) 24 hours before vessel departure from origin port. Late filing incurs $5,000 penalty.
- USDA APHIS Inspection
Green coffee is inspected for insects, pests, and plant diseases. Phytosanitary certificate from Ethiopia expedites this. Inspection fee: ~$200-500.
- CBP Customs Review
Customs reviews your entry documents and assesses duties (if applicable). Random inspections may occur.
- Duty Payment & Release
Green coffee from Ethiopia typically enters duty-free under AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act). Once cleared, container is released for pickup.
- Drayage to Warehouse
Arrange trucking from port to your warehouse or storage facility. Unload and store in climate-controlled space.
AGOA Duty-Free Benefits
Ethiopian coffee qualifies for duty-free entry under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which waives the standard 0% duty on green coffee (it's already duty-free under HTS code 0901.11).
However, AGOA provides additional benefits and ensures smooth processing. Make sure your Ethiopian exporter includes the Certificate of Origin for AGOA eligibility.
Step 6: Cost Breakdown for Importing Ethiopian Coffee
Understanding total landed costs helps you price your coffee accurately and maintain healthy margins.
Estimated Cost Breakdown (20ft Container, ~300 bags)
| FOB Price (Ethiopia) | $3.50 - $6.50/lb depending on grade/origin |
| Ocean Freight (Djibouti to US) | $3,500 - $6,000 |
| Customs Broker Fee | $150 - $400 |
| USDA APHIS Inspection | $200 - $500 |
| ISF Filing Fee | $50 - $100 |
| Port Fees & Terminal Handling | $300 - $800 |
| Drayage (Port to Warehouse) | $300 - $1,200 depending on distance |
| Customs Bond (if continuous) | $400 - $600/year |
| Import Duties (Green Coffee) | $0 (duty-free under AGOA) |
Total Additional Costs: Approximately $4,900 - $9,600 on top of FOB price, depending on port, distance, and service providers.
Landed Cost Example: FOB price $4.50/lb × 18,000 kg (39,683 lbs) = $178,573 + $6,000 logistics = $184,573 / 39,683 lbs = $4.65/lb landed cost
Step 7: Storage & Quality Preservation
Once your Ethiopian coffee arrives in the US, proper storage is critical to maintaining quality.
- Climate Control: Store at 60-70°F with 50-60% relative humidity
- GrainPro Bags: Use moisture-barrier bags to protect from humidity fluctuations
- Pallet Storage: Keep bags off ground, away from walls, with airflow between stacks
- Pest Control: Regular monitoring for insects, especially if storing near other grains
- FIFO Rotation: Use First In, First Out inventory management to maintain freshness
Green Coffee Shelf Life
Ethiopian specialty coffee maintains optimal quality for 6-12 months when stored properly. After 12 months, expect some fading of floral/fruit notes. Plan inventory accordingly.
Step 8: Working with Ethio Coffee Export for US Imports
As an ECX-registered Ethiopian coffee exporter with extensive US market experience, Ethio Coffee Export PLC simplifies the import process for American roasters and importers.
What We Handle (Ethiopia Side)
What You Handle (US Side)
- Customs broker relationship
- Ocean freight booking (or we can recommend)
- US port customs clearance
- Warehouse storage
- Roasting & distribution
Sample Import Process: Small Roaster Example
Here's a real-world example of a US specialty roaster importing 50 bags (3,000 kg) of Ethiopian coffee:
Week 1-2: Sourcing & Samples
Roaster contacts Ethio Coffee, requests cupping samples of Yirgacheffe G1 washed. Samples arrive via DHL in 5-7 days. Roaster cups and approves.
Week 3: Contract & Payment
Purchase order issued for 50 bags at $5.20/lb FOB. 30% deposit paid via wire transfer. Remaining 70% due upon Bill of Lading.
Week 4-5: Container Consolidation
Ethio Coffee consolidates roaster's 50 bags with other buyers' orders to fill a 20ft container (300 bags total). LCL shared container.
Week 6: Shipping & Documentation
Container ships from Djibouti. Bill of Lading, phytosanitary, ICO cert, and invoice sent to roaster. Final payment made. ISF filed by customs broker.
Week 10: US Port Arrival
Container arrives Oakland port. USDA inspection passed. Customs cleared within 2 days.
Week 11: Delivery & Roasting
Drayage delivers 50 bags to roaster's warehouse. Roaster begins sample roasting and production.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake: "I'll figure out logistics after ordering"
Solution: Arrange customs broker, freight forwarder, and warehouse BEFORE placing your order. Lead times require advance planning.
Mistake: "I don't need a customs broker"
Solution: Unless you have customs clearance experience, use a broker. The cost is minimal compared to potential delays or penalties from incorrect filing.
Mistake: "I'll store green coffee in my garage"
Solution: Green coffee is hygroscopic and sensitive to humidity/temperature. Invest in proper storage or use a third-party coffee warehouse.
Mistake: "I'll order one bag to test"
Solution: Container shipping makes single-bag imports prohibitively expensive. Order samples first, then commit to at least 50-100 bags or join an LCL consolidation.
Timeline Summary: Ethiopia to US Warehouse
Plan for approximately 10-14 weeks from initial contact to coffee in your US warehouse:
- Weeks 1-2: Sourcing, samples, cupping evaluation
- Week 3: Contract negotiation and deposit payment
- Weeks 4-5: Coffee preparation, container stuffing in Ethiopia
- Week 6: Departure from Djibouti port
- Weeks 7-10: Ocean transit (25-40 days depending on route)
- Week 11: US port arrival, customs clearance, USDA inspection
- Week 12: Drayage to your warehouse
Is Importing Ethiopian Coffee to the USA Right for You?
Direct import makes sense if you:
- Roast 1,000+ lbs/month (enough to justify container orders)
- Want better margins than buying from US-based importers
- Seek direct relationships with origin for storytelling and quality control
- Can manage 10-14 week lead times and inventory planning
- Have storage capacity for 50-300+ bags
If you're a smaller roaster (under 500 lbs/month), consider buying from US-based importers initially, then graduate to direct imports as your volume grows.
Key Resources for US Coffee Importers
- FDA Food Safety: Food import regulations and guidance
- USDA APHIS: Plant health import requirements
- CBP Import Information: Customs procedures, AGOA benefits, HTS code lookup
- US Harmonized Tariff Schedule: Search HTS code 0901.11 for coffee duty rates
- AGOA Information: African Growth and Opportunity Act duty-free benefits
Ready to Import Ethiopian Coffee to the United States?
Ethio Coffee Export PLC specializes in Ethiopian coffee export to the US market. We provide speciality Yirgacheffe, Sidamo, Guji, and other origins with complete documentation, competitive FOB pricing, and the responsive service American importers expect.
Whether you're importing your first container or looking for a more reliable Ethiopian partner, we make the process transparent and hassle-free.
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About This Guide: This comprehensive resource covers the complete process of importing Ethiopian specialty coffee to the United States, including regulations, documentation, shipping logistics, customs clearance, and cost breakdowns for roasters and coffee importers.