Multiple agencies may be involved depending on the species: USDA APHIS handles general animal health and quarantine requirements; the US Fish and Wildlife Service administers CITES permits and the Lacey Act for protected species; and CDC has jurisdiction over certain animals that pose public health risks, such as some primates and African rodents. Many shipments require coordination across more than one agency before entry is permitted.

Most parrots, macaws, and cockatoos (010632) are listed on CITES Appendix I or II, meaning that both an export permit from the country of origin and a US import permit from the Fish and Wildlife Service are required. Appendix I species face the strictest controls and may only be imported for non-commercial purposes. Importers should verify the CITES listing of the specific species before contracting a shipment.