Introduction: Why Import Argan Oil from Morocco?
Morocco is the world's sole commercial producer of argan oil, accounting for over 95% of global supply. The argan tree (Argania spinosa) grows exclusively in the Souss-Massa region of southwestern Morocco, making the country the definitive origin for any legitimate argan oil product. For US importers, sourcing directly from Moroccan producers offers the best quality, pricing, and supply chain transparency.
Understanding HS Codes for Argan Oil
The correct Harmonized System (HS) code for argan oil is HS 1515.90 — "Other fixed vegetable fats and oils and their fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified." Using the correct code is critical: it determines your duty rate, which for argan oil imported into the US is generally free under MFN (Most Favored Nation) status for Morocco. Misclassifying your product can result in delays, penalties, or seizure by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
FDA Requirements
All food and cosmetic products entering the United States must comply with FDA regulations. For argan oil, the requirements depend on the intended use:
- Cosmetic grade: Must comply with FDA 21 CFR Parts 700-740. No pre-market approval required, but the product must be safe and properly labeled.
- Food/culinary grade: Falls under FDA 21 CFR Part 110 (Current Good Manufacturing Practice). The foreign facility must have an active FDA Facility Registration Number, and a Prior Notice must be filed with FDA before each shipment arrives.
Your Moroccan supplier should provide their FDA registration number, which you can verify through the FDA's online portal. At Bulk Argan Oil, our facility is fully FDA-registered and we provide all necessary documentation for smooth customs clearance.
USDA Organic Import Requirements
If you want to market your argan oil as "USDA Organic" in the United States, the product must be certified under the USDA National Organic Program (NOP). This means your Moroccan supplier must hold a valid USDA NOP certificate from an accredited certifying agent. Ecocert certification alone is not sufficient for USDA Organic labeling — however, many certifying bodies issue dual certificates (Ecocert + NOP) simultaneously.
Key documentation to request from your supplier:
- USDA NOP Organic Certificate (current year)
- Transaction Certificate (TC) for each shipment
- NOP Import Certificate
Selecting a Customs Broker
We strongly recommend hiring a licensed US customs broker for your first import. A good broker will handle your ISF (Importer Security Filing, also called "10+2"), Entry Summary, duty classification, and coordinate with FDA for prior notice. Expect to pay $150–$350 per entry for broker fees. Popular brokers experienced in food/cosmetic imports include Flexport, Shapiro, and Alba Wheels Up.
Understanding Incoterms
The two most common incoterms for argan oil shipments are:
- FOB Casablanca: You are responsible for ocean freight, insurance, and customs clearance. You choose the shipping line.
- CIF New York/LA/Miami: The supplier handles freight and insurance. You only handle customs clearance at the destination port.
At Bulk Argan Oil, we offer both FOB and CIF terms. For first-time importers, we recommend CIF as it simplifies logistics significantly.
Typical Costs Breakdown
Here's what to budget for a typical 200-liter drum shipment CIF to New York:
- Product cost: Request quote (varies by grade and volume)
- Ocean freight (CIF): Included in CIF pricing
- Customs broker fees: $150–$350
- FDA Prior Notice: No fee (filed electronically)
- Port handling/terminal fees: $200–$400
- Delivery to your warehouse: $150–$500 (distance dependent)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not verifying organic certification: Always request current-year certificates and verify them online.
- Skipping the sample phase: Always order samples before committing to a bulk order.
- Using incorrect HS codes: This causes delays and potential fines.
- Ignoring labeling regulations: US labeling requirements differ from EU/Morocco.
- Not having a customs broker: DIY customs clearance often leads to delays.
Getting Started
Ready to import? The process is straightforward: request a quote from us with your desired grade, volume, and destination port. We'll provide a detailed proforma invoice, and our logistics team will guide you through every step from production to delivery at your US warehouse.
