Antidumping duty orders on honey from certain countries have created financial incentives for transshipment — routing product through a third country to misrepresent its origin. CBP actively investigates honey origin claims, and importers found to have accepted transshipped product can face retroactive duty liability and penalties. Maintaining mill certificates, pollen analysis records, and supplier affidavits helps demonstrate legitimate origin.

USDA APHIS requires an import permit for live honeybees (Apis mellifera), and entry is restricted to approved ports. Package bees and queens must be accompanied by a phytosanitary or health certificate from the exporting country, and shipments are subject to APHIS inspection on arrival. Importers should apply for the permit well in advance, as processing times vary.