Exporting fresh produce: what buyers should confirm before ordering

Fresh produce is perishable and seasonal, so the details have to be settled before the season starts. Whether you are buying mangoes, other fruit or vegetables, agreeing these points in advance avoids rejected shipments and disputes.

Product, variety and grade

Specify the variety, size or count per box, ripeness at dispatch and the quality grade you expect. Ask for photos or samples where practical.

Season and volumes

Availability depends on the harvest window. Agree the volumes you need per week or per shipment and how changes will be handled.

Packaging and labelling

Confirm box type, weight per box, palletisation and the labelling your market requires, including any language or traceability information.

Documentation and approvals

Destination countries set their own import rules. Shipments typically need commercial documents and may need certificates such as a phytosanitary certificate or certificate of origin. Confirm the exact list for your market before ordering.

Cold chain and transit time

Agree temperature requirements, the mode of transport and the expected transit time. These decide how the produce is harvested, packed and shipped.

Shipping terms and responsibilities

Set out who arranges and pays for freight, insurance, customs clearance and duties, and where risk passes from seller to buyer. Using a recognised set of trade terms in the contract keeps this clear.

AXITRADE coordinates selected exports and international sourcing, with availability, documentation and destination requirements confirmed for each order. Discuss an import or export requirement.