Agricultural Products & Commodities Sourcing Guide

Agricultural commodities are typically traded in metric tonnes (MT). Minimum viable shipment sizes: 1–5 MT for LCL (less than container load) consolidated shipping. FCL (full 20ft container): approximately 20–25 MT net for most dry commodities. Some suppliers on Towobo accommodate sample quantities of 25–100 kg for testing and lab analysis before committing to full container orders.

All agricultural imports into the UK require IPAFFS pre-notification. EU imports use TRACES NT. Both require phytosanitary certificates from the exporting country's national plant protection organisation. Aflatoxin limits: EU regulation 2023/915 applies strict limits for nuts, dried fruit, cereals and spices (B1: 2–5 ppb depending on category). Pesticide maximum residue levels (MRLs) are set by EU regulation 396/2005. Organic certification requires the supplier's country to be on the EU/UK approved third-country list.

Dry bulk commodities (grains, seeds, nuts) typically ship in 20ft or 40ft containers, jute bags, big bags (FIBC) or drums. Refrigerated commodities (fresh fruit, meat) require reefer containers. Specify moisture content maximum in your purchase order — commodities with excessive moisture can be rejected at customs or arrive damaged. Container fumigation certificates may be required for wood-packed goods.

Pre-shipment inspection (PSI) by a third-party agency is essential for commodity imports — verify weight, moisture, quality grade, aflatoxin levels and correct packing before the container is sealed. Specify all quality parameters in your purchase order. Build a price clause for rejection or price adjustment if quality deviates beyond agreed tolerances. Use Letter of Credit (LC) or Towobo payment protection rather than 100% advance payment for commodity purchases.