US Grain Suppliers: Corn, Soybeans and Wheat
The U.S. grain trade has its own official certificates for quality, weight and plant health. This guide explains what they are and who issues them.
| Industry | Grains and oilseeds |
|---|---|
| Main tariff headings (Harmonized System) | 1001, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1201, 2304, 2303, 1101, 1102 |
| U.S. agencies involved | USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS); USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS); U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) |
| Official sources cited | 3 |
| Last reviewed | 2026-10-07 |
Tariff headings you should know
- 1001: wheat and meslin. 1005: corn (maize). 1006: rice. 1007: grain sorghum.
- 1201: soybeans. 2304: oilcake and other solid residues from the extraction of soybean oil.
- 2303: residues of starch manufacture and similar residues, including those from distilling.
- 1101: wheat flour. 1102: flours of other cereals.
Official U.S. certificates
- According to the USDA, the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) is required to certify the quality and weight of export shipments of the grains covered by the U.S. Grain Standards Act. Only FGIS and the state or private agencies it authorizes may issue official certificates.
- FGIS tests all corn exports for aflatoxin, unless the contract states that it is not required.
- APHIS issues export phytosanitary certificates stating that the product was inspected and meets the plant health requirements of the destination country.
How to choose and verify the supplier
- Use the official FGIS grades and certificates as the quality reference in the contract.
- Ask your country’s agricultural authority which phytosanitary permits it requires for each grain before you close the purchase.
- Check that the company exists: business registration in its state, physical address, website and references from other buyers.
- Check that it does not appear on the U.S. restricted-party lists, and ask for a formal quotation with the Incoterm, lead time and payment terms.
Frequently asked questions
What is the FGIS certificate?
It is the official certificate of quality (grade) and weight that the USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service issues for export shipments of the grains covered by the law.
Who issues the phytosanitary certificate?
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
Official sources
- USDA AMS/FGIS: exporting grain
- USDA APHIS: export certification of plants and plant products
- USITC: Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
This page is general information to help you get started. It is not legal, tax or customs advice, and regulations change. Confirm current requirements with the official sources above or with a licensed customs broker, freight forwarder or trade compliance professional.