What US Foods does and who can buy from them

US Foods is a broadline distributor — meaning they supply restaurants, cafes, catering operations, and other food service businesses with everything from proteins and produce to paper goods and kitchen equipment. They are one of the two largest food service distributors in the United States, alongside Sysco. US Foods does not sell to the general public; you must have a food service business or operate a commercial kitchen to open an account.

The company operates through a network of regional distribution centers and local sales representatives. When you order, your products typically arrive within one to three business days depending on your location and the items ordered. US Foods serves all 50 states, though delivery speed and product availability vary by region.

Unlike retail grocery stores, US Foods prices are structured around bulk quantities and business accounts. You pay based on your order volume, contract terms, and the specific products you purchase. Smaller operations may pay higher per-unit costs than large chains, but you still buy in quantities larger than a consumer would — cases of items rather than individual units.

Key Takeaways

  • US Foods requires you to have an active food service business with a commercial kitchen or catering operation to open an account.
  • You order through a sales representative, online portal, or mobile app, and most orders arrive within one to three business days.
  • Pricing is based on bulk quantities and your account's order volume; smaller restaurants typically pay more per unit than large chains.
  • US Foods supplies proteins, produce, dairy, dry goods, frozen items, paper products, and smallwares, but selection and availability depend on your region.
  • Account setup requires business documentation such as a business license, tax ID, and proof of a commercial kitchen or catering space.

How to open a US Foods account

To open an account, you contact US Foods directly through their website or by calling their sales line for your region. You will need to provide your business name, business license, federal tax ID (EIN), and proof that you operate a commercial kitchen or catering facility. Some locations may also ask for a reference from another supplier or bank.

The approval process typically takes three to five business days. During this time, a credit check is usually performed, and the company may request additional documentation if your business is new or if there are questions about your operation. Once approved, you receive login credentials for their online ordering system and are assigned a sales representative who can answer questions and help with larger orders.

There is no membership fee to open a US Foods account, though some regional locations may require a minimum first order. Ask your sales representative about any local requirements when you begin the account setup process.

Ordering methods and delivery schedules

US Foods offers three main ways to place orders. The first is through their online portal, where you can browse products, check prices, and place orders 24 hours a day. The second is through their mobile app, which works similarly to the website but is designed for phone use. The third is by calling or meeting with your assigned sales representative, which is common for large orders or if you prefer personalized service.

Most orders placed before a certain cutoff time (usually early morning) arrive the next business day in major metropolitan areas. Orders placed later or from more remote locations may take two to three business days. US Foods publishes a delivery schedule for your area, which you can view in your account or ask your sales representative to provide.

Delivery is included in your pricing — you do not pay a separate shipping fee. However, if you need a same-day or emergency order, some regions offer expedited delivery at an additional charge. Minimum order amounts vary by location but typically range from $50 to $150.

Product categories and what you can order

US Foods stocks thousands of products across several main categories. Proteins include fresh and frozen beef, poultry, pork, and seafood, as well as prepared items like pre-portioned steaks or breaded chicken. Produce covers fresh vegetables and fruits, typically available year-round though seasonal items vary by region and time of year.

Dairy and frozen goods include milk, cheese, butter, ice cream, and frozen vegetables and prepared foods. Dry goods and pantry staples cover flour, sugar, oils, spices, canned goods, and grains. Paper and disposable products include napkins, plates, cups, takeout containers, and trash bags. Smallwares — small equipment and tools — include knives, cutting boards, pots, pans, and other kitchen basics.

Not every product is available in every region. Regional distribution centers stock items based on local demand and supplier relationships. If you need a specific product that does not appear in your online catalog, ask your sales representative whether it can be special-ordered or sourced from another location.

Pricing, discounts, and contract terms

US Foods pricing is not published publicly; instead, prices are set based on your account's volume, your contract terms, and current market conditions. A restaurant that orders $5,000 per week will typically receive better per-unit pricing than one that orders $500 per week. Seasonal items, specialty products, and items in high demand may have higher markups.

Most accounts operate on a spot-market basis, meaning prices can change week to week based on supply and demand. Some larger restaurants negotiate fixed-price contracts for certain items over a set period, which locks in a price regardless of market fluctuations. Your sales representative can discuss whether a contract makes sense for your business.

Volume discounts are automatic — as your order size grows, your per-unit cost typically decreases. Promotional pricing on specific items is common and is usually highlighted in your online portal or communicated by your sales representative. Payment terms are typically net 30 days for established accounts, though new accounts may be required to pay by credit card or check until credit is established.

Comparing US Foods to other broadline distributors

The main competitor to US Foods is Sysco, which operates similarly and serves roughly the same market. Both companies offer comparable product ranges, delivery speeds, and account structures. The choice between them often comes down to which distributor has better pricing for your specific products, which has a sales representative in your area, or which has better service in your region.

Smaller, regional distributors also exist in many areas and may offer more personalized service or better pricing on certain items, though they typically have smaller product catalogs and may not serve all regions. Some restaurants use multiple distributors to compare prices or to source specialty items that one distributor does not carry well.

US Foods and Sysco both offer online ordering, mobile apps, and sales representative support. Both require business documentation to open an account. The practical difference for most restaurants is which company offers better pricing on the items you order most frequently and which has reliable delivery in your location.

Common issues and how to resolve them

If an item is out of stock, US Foods will notify you when you place the order or will suggest a substitute product. You can choose to accept the substitute, wait for the item to come back in stock, or cancel that line item. For items you order regularly, you can ask your sales representative to notify you when the product is available again.

If your delivery is late or incomplete, contact your sales representative or the customer service number on your invoice. US Foods tracks all deliveries and can usually tell you the status within hours. If items arrive damaged, photograph the damage, keep the damaged items, and report it to your sales representative within 24 hours so they can issue a credit or replacement.

If you have questions about pricing or believe you are being charged incorrectly, your sales representative can review your account and explain the charges. If you want to negotiate pricing on high-volume items, ask your representative about contract options or volume discounts you may not currently be receiving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use US Foods if I run a small catering business from home?

Most states require a commercial kitchen or licensed catering facility to open a US Foods account. A home kitchen, even if licensed for certain types of food preparation, typically does not meet their requirements. Check with your local health department about whether your setup qualifies as a commercial kitchen, then contact US Foods to confirm they will serve your location.

What happens if I do not meet the minimum order?

If your region has a minimum order requirement and you place an order below it, US Foods will either ask you to add items to reach the minimum or may decline the order. Some locations waive the minimum for established accounts with a good payment history. Ask your sales representative about the minimum for your account.

Can I return products I did not use?

US Foods has a return policy, but it varies by product type and region. Unopened, undamaged items in original packaging can often be returned within a set timeframe (usually 7 to 14 days) for a credit. Opened, damaged, or perishable items are generally not returnable. Ask your sales representative about the specific return policy for your account.

How do I know if US Foods serves my area?

US Foods operates in all 50 states, but delivery availability and product selection vary by region. Visit their website and enter your zip code, or call their sales line to confirm they deliver to your location and to learn about delivery schedules and minimum orders in your area.

What if I want to switch from another distributor to US Foods?

There is no penalty for switching distributors. Open a US Foods account following the standard process, and begin ordering. You can keep your existing distributor account open while you test US Foods, or close it once you are satisfied with the new arrangement. Your sales representative can help you transition your regular orders.