A first-time buyer once asked us: “Why do you keep mentioning phytosanitary certificates? Is that going to cost extra?” The answer is no — it’s standard, and any supplier who treats it as optional is one you should not be paying.
1. Commercial Invoice + Packing List
Lists product, quantity, unit price, total value, gross and net weight, number of cartons. Used by customs to assess duty. Should match exactly what’s on the container.
2. Bill of Lading (B/L)
Issued by the shipping line. Proves goods were loaded onto the named vessel on the named date. In sea freight, B/L is also the title document — whoever holds the original can claim the goods. Payment terms tied to B/L copies.
3. Phytosanitary Certificate
Issued by China’s plant quarantine authority (GACC). Certifies the agricultural product is pest-free and meets the importing country’s plant health requirements. Required for ALL plant-derived food entering EU, UK, USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Korea, Australia and most other markets.
4. Fumigation Certificate
For goods (or wooden pallets) fumigated against pests. Most markets require this for ISPM-15 compliant packaging. Skipping can result in containers held or destroyed at destination.
5. Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Third-party lab report confirming batch meets specified parameters: moisture, microbiological count, pesticide residues, heavy metals, sulfite content. Some markets require additional tests (EU aflatoxin testing for nuts).
What If Your Supplier Hesitates?
If you ask for any of these and your supplier says “let me check” or “we usually don’t provide that until paid,” that’s information. Either they don’t have the docs in place (not a regular exporter), or they’re hoping you’ll skip the check (hiding something). Walk away.