Import shipments exceeding 400 lbs. are subject to the requirements of Section 8e. The cost of the inspection and certification is paid by the applicant. View the full regulation.
Oranges are required to be inspected and certified as meeting the following grade and size requirements prior to importation. Grade and size requirements are in effect for oranges imported into the United States from September 1 through June 30 of each year.
Grade Requirement - Must grade at least U.S. No. 2, except during the months of July and August.
Size Requirement - The oranges must be at least 2 3/16 inches in diameter.
The Importer's Exempt Commodity Form (SC-6) is used for oranges for consumption in exempted outlets such as charitable institutions, distribution by relief agencies, or commercial processing, including canning, freezing, dehydrating, drying, and the addition of chemical substances or by fermentation. Oranges that are imported for exempt use cannot be shipped to processors who have facilities, equipment, or outlets to repack or sell fruit in fresh form.
The SC-6 exemption form must now be filed through the Compliance and Enforcement Management System (CEMS). The MOLS system previously utilized by AMS has been transitioned to CEMS. Visit Section 8e Exemptions – SC-6 Certificate for further information on the new CEMS and SC-6 Certificates. Also, visit Filing a SC-6 Certificate in CEMS for directions for registering for CEMS and instructions on filing a SC-6 Certificate.
Orange importers should make arrangements for inspection and certification at least one day prior to entry at Port inspection offices, or two days prior to entry at the Field Operations Section.