Logistics playbook
Hass avocado logistics: Kenya to global buyers
Ship Hass avocados with stable cold chain, clear incoterms, and predictable transit windows. This guide covers the lanes exporters use most.
What buyers ask first
- Sea vs air recommendation based on week and size mix
- Incoterms and destination port options
- Packhouse pre-cool and reefer settings
- Export docs and inspection timeline
Sea freight via Mombasa
- Incoterms: FOB Mombasa, CFR/CIF Rotterdam or Jebel Ali
- Transit: 18-30 days depending on routing
- Typical sizes: 16-24 for sea programs
- Cold chain: pre-cool, forced-air, reefer at 5-6C
Air freight via JKIA
- Incoterms: FCA/FOB air, CNF for direct airport delivery
- Transit: 1-4 days to Gulf and EU hubs
- Typical sizes: 22-26 for air programs
- Cold chain: rapid pre-cool and insulated pallets
FOB vs CIF responsibilities
| Incoterm | Exporter handles | Buyer handles | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FOB Mombasa | Pack, clearance, delivery to port | Freight, insurance, destination clearance | Buyer books the vessel and reefer slots |
| CFR/CIF | Pack, clearance, ocean freight | Destination clearance | CIF includes insurance to destination port |
| Air CNF | Pack, clearance, air cargo booking | Destination clearance | Best for tight windows or premium lots |
Cold chain checklist
Pre-cool, temperature logs, sealed loading, reefer setpoint 5-6C, and pulp temp checks.
Export documentation
Phytosanitary, export permit, packhouse registration, and QA photos per batch.
Packaging integrity
Ventilated 4kg/10kg cartons, moisture control, and pallet protection.
Typical shipment timeline
Harvest and intake at packhouse (day 0)
Grading, packing, and pre-cool (day 1)
Phytosanitary inspection and export docs (day 1-2)
Load to reefer or air pallet and dispatch (day 2)
Arrival, clearance, and delivery (day 3+ air, day 18+ sea)
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