Seed potatoes pose a higher phytosanitary risk because they are planted in US soil, creating a pathway for introducing soil-borne pests and diseases — particularly potato cyst nematode (Globodera species) and bacterial ring rot — that could establish in domestic production areas. USDA APHIS therefore restricts seed potato imports to approved sources and requires rigorous phytosanitary certification, field inspection records, and in some cases post-entry monitoring. Table potatoes, while also subject to phytosanitary requirements, do not carry the same establishment risk.

USDA grades for fresh potatoes (US No. 1, US No. 2, and US Commercial) are based on size, shape, freedom from defects, and internal quality. Import contracts for fresh table potatoes typically specify a minimum grade, and shipments that fail to meet the contracted grade at destination inspection may be subject to price adjustments or rejection. Importers should ensure that foreign packing facilities are familiar with USDA grade standards and that pre-shipment inspection certificates reflect the applicable grade.