With Brazil holding a prominent position as one of the world’s largest exporters of agricultural commodities, maritime transport is the backbone of international agribusiness logistics. Millions of tons of soybeans, corn, coffee, fruits, and meats cross the oceans every year but how does this process actually work in practice?
If you’re a rural producer, cooperative, or trading company, understanding the steps to export by sea is essential to ensure efficiency, safety, and compliance with international trade regulations.
1. Registration in the Radar/Siscomex System
Before exporting, your company must be registered in the Radar system of the Brazilian Federal Revenue, via Siscomex (Integrated Foreign Trade System). This registration is mandatory and certifies that you are authorized to carry out foreign trade operations.
Practical example: A coffee producer in Minas Gerais must have their business registered in Siscomex to issue an export invoice and declare the cargo in the Federal Revenue system.
2. Product Classification and Documentation
The products must be properly classified using the NCM (Mercosur Common Nomenclature) and accompanied by the required documents, such as:
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Export Invoice
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Proforma Invoice
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Packing List
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Phytosanitary Certificate (issued by MAPA – Ministry of Agriculture)
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Certificate of Origin (when required)
Practical example: To export mangoes to Europe, it is mandatory to present a phytosanitary certificate proving that the fruit is pest-free.
3. Logistics Preparation and Transport to the Port
Products must be stored and transported securely to the port terminal. The logistics may involve refrigerated trucks (in the case of perishables), appropriate packaging, and even special container units.
Practical example: Fresh fruits from the São Francisco Valley are transported in temperature-controlled trucks to the Port of Suape, using refrigerated containers.
4. Customs Clearance and Port Authorization
This step is carried out by a customs broker, who files the Single Export Declaration (DU-E) in the system and handles inspections by the Federal Revenue and other regulatory agencies (such as MAPA and Anvisa).
Tip: Hiring an experienced customs broker helps avoid delays and additional port storage costs.
5. Container Stuffing and Vessel Loading
After clearance, the cargo is stuffed into the container (if not already done) and delivered to the vessel. The shipment is carried out based on the booking made with the shipping company. At this stage, the exporter also receives the Bill of Lading, the official document proving shipment.
Practical example: A bulk corn exporter ships the cargo from the Port of Santos using a bulk carrier vessel. The Bill of Lading confirms ownership of the goods in transit.
6. International Transport and Arrival at Destination
During maritime transit, it is essential to monitor the cargo — especially in the case of perishable or sensitive goods. Upon arrival in the destination country, the shipment will go through customs inspection and, once cleared, be delivered to the importer.
Tip: Work with freight forwarders that offer real-time cargo tracking.
Final Thoughts
Exporting agricultural products via maritime transport requires detailed planning, precise documentation, and strict adherence to both national and international regulations. By following this step-by-step guide, producers and exporters can take advantage of global market opportunities with greater confidence.
With the support of reliable logistics partners and a well-prepared team, your products can reach international markets with quality, punctuality, and competitiveness.
What Are the Risks of Exporting Agricultural Products by Sea?
Although maritime transport is the most widely used and efficient mode for international trade, it carries risks that demand extra attention from exporters. Being aware of these risks is key to preventing them and ensuring that goods arrive at their destination with quality and on time.
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1. Damage to Cargo Due to Poor Stuffing or Improper Handling
Agricultural products especially perishables are highly sensitive. If not properly packed or stuffed into the container, they can suffer physical damage, crushing, or spoilage during transportation.
Example: A poorly stuffed container of mangoes can be damaged by ship movement or temperature fluctuations, making the fruit unsuitable for consumption.
How to avoid it: Use companies specialized in container stuffing and packaging appropriate for the type of product being shipped. Refrigerated containers should be calibrated before the trip.
2. Quality Loss Due to Temperature Control Failure
Fresh food, meat, dairy products, and fruits and vegetables require consistent temperature. Any variation along the route can compromise product quality.
Example: A technical failure in a reefer (refrigerated container) could result in the loss of an entire shipment of grapes destined for Europe.
How to avoid it: Choose carriers that offer real-time temperature monitoring and insurance coverage for equipment failure.
3. Delays in Customs Clearance
Missing documents, errors in the DU-E (Single Export Declaration), or unmet requirements (such as sanitary certificates) can delay cargo clearance at the ports of origin or destination.
Example: A shipment of corn may be held up at customs due to discrepancies between the phytosanitary certificate and the invoice.
How to avoid it: Work with experienced customs brokers and double-check all documents in advance.
4. Weather and Maritime Risks
Storms, heavy fog, strong winds, or accidents at sea can cause damage or total loss of cargo, in addition to significant delivery delays.
Example: A vessel carrying grain may need to change course due to a storm in the Atlantic Ocean, delaying delivery by over a week.
How to avoid it: Purchase marine insurance (hull and cargo), plan shipments with a safety margin, and monitor weather forecasts.
5. Theft, Piracy, and Container Tampering
In some shipping routes and ports, there is a risk of theft or tampering especially for high-value cargo such as nuts, specialty coffee, or premium fruits.
Example: Refrigerated shipments of tropical fruits can be targeted by organized crime groups at major ports.
How to avoid it: Use security seals, GPS tracking, and insurance with theft coverage to mitigate this risk.
Exporting agricultural products by sea is an excellent opportunity to expand markets and boost competitiveness. However, the logistical, operational, and regulatory risks demand careful planning, trustworthy partners, and strict control measures.
By adopting best practices and anticipating potential issues, your export operation can become not only feasible, but also a true competitive advantage in the international market.
