Ten stages
What happens, and when
Days are counted from your enquiry for a typical bulk cargo. Packed lots and metals usually move faster.
| Enquiry Day 0 | You send product, quantity, specification, destination and timing. Quote form or email |
|---|---|
| Protection Days 1–3 | Mutual NCNDA where intermediaries are involved; fee agreements signed. NCNDA · IMFPA |
| Sourcing Days 2–10 | Request for quotation to checked producers; offers compared. RFQ · seller offers |
| Verification Days 5–14 | Seller KYC, origin and export permit, proof of supply; buyer KYC exchanged. KYC packs · proof of product |
| Offer Days 7–15 | Written offer to the buyer with origin, port, price basis and validity. Indicative offer / FCO |
| Contract Days 10–20 | Buyer issues LOI; sales contract (SPA) agreed and signed buyer–seller. LOI · SPA |
| LC Within 5–15 days of SPA | Buyer's bank opens an irrevocable LC in favour of the seller. LC · LC draft approval |
| Loading Per laycan | Vessel nominated, cargo loaded and inspected by SGS / BV / Intertek. Inspection certificates · B/L |
| Payment At sight | Documents presented to the bank and paid against compliance. Shipping document set |
| Delivery Voyage | Discharge at destination; any claim handled under the contract. Discharge report |
Three rules
What never changes
Rule 1
No advance fees
Nobody pays anyone before a signed contract.
Rule 2
Inspection at loading
Independent quality and quantity certificates on every cargo.
Rule 3
Paper first
Every term in writing before money or cargo moves.
Start an enquiry
Tell us what you need to move.
Send the product, quantity, destination and timing. We reply with a clear answer within one working day.