Citrus Fruit Dealer's Bond
What is a Citrus Fruit Dealer’s Bond?
A Citrus Fruit Dealer’s Bond is a surety bond required by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Fruit and Vegetables. This bond ensures that licensed citrus dealers comply with the state laws outlined in Chapter 601, Florida Statutes.
The purpose of this bond is to guarantee that citrus dealers:
- Honor contracts with citrus producers and other dealers.
- Account properly for advance payments, deposits, and proceeds of citrus sales.
- Deliver citrus fruit as agreed in written or verbal contracts.
If you need to secure your bond quickly, contact us and our team will guide you through the process.
Why is this Bond Required?
Florida law requires all citrus dealers to obtain a bond before receiving a license. This bond requirement helps protect the citrus market from financial misconduct and ensures fair business practices.
The bond guarantees that:
1. Producers Are Paid – Growers who supply citrus must receive the proceeds from sales.
2. Dealers Remain Accountable – If a dealer defaults on contracts or misuses advance payments, the bond offers financial protection.
3. Contracts Are Honored – Dealers must deliver citrus as promised to producers and other citrus fruit dealers.
Without a valid bond, dealers cannot legally operate in Florida’s citrus industry.
Bond Amounts & Coverage
The amount of the Citrus Fruit Dealer’s Bond is determined by the volume of citrus boxes handled during the shipping season. Bond requirements start at $1,000 for up to 100,000 boxes and scale upward based on the number of boxes.
The maximum bond amount required is $100,000, ensuring that even large-volume dealers are financially accountable.
This tiered structure allows small businesses to enter the industry while still maintaining strong protections for growers and buyers.
Term & Renewal
The bond covers a specific citrus shipping season, ending on July 31 each year. Liability under the bond terminates on May 1 following the end of that shipping season unless renewed.
Dealers must submit a new bond every season to maintain compliance. Continuation certificates are not accepted—a fresh bond form must be issued annually.
Who Needs a Citrus Fruit Dealer’s Bond?
You will need this bond if you are:
- A licensed citrus fruit dealer in Florida.
- A grower’s agent handling fruit on behalf of producers.
- A broker or processor engaged in citrus contracts.
Any business involved in the purchase, handling, or sale of citrus fruit under Florida’s licensing laws must have this bond in place.
How Much Does It Cost?
The bond amount set by FDACS is not the same as your premium (the amount you actually pay).
Your cost depends on:
- Personal and business credit score
- Business size and revenue
- Financial stability
- Bonding history
Most qualified applicants only pay a fraction of the required bond amount—making compliance affordable even for small and mid-sized citrus operations.
How to Get a Citrus Fruit Dealer’s Bond
Securing your bond with Surety Bond Authority is simple:
1. Apply online or by phone – Provide basic business information.
2. Receive a free quote – Our surety experts find you the best available rate.
3. Issue your bond – Approved bonds are typically issued the same day.
4. File with FDACS – Submit your executed bond to the Commissioner of Agriculture’s office to complete compliance.
Why Choose Surety Bond Authority?
- Fast Approvals – Most bonds issued within 24 hours.
- Best Rates – Access to top surety carriers nationwide.
- Expert Support – Our team understands Florida citrus bond regulations.
- Trusted Agency – Thousands of businesses rely on us for license and agricultural bonds.
Get Started Today
Don’t risk delays in licensing or interruptions in your citrus business. With Surety Bond Authority, getting your Citrus Fruit Dealer’s Bond is fast, affordable, and stress-free.
Contact us to apply for your bond and keep your citrus operations compliant with Florida law.
