How to Start Exporting Chickpeas: Quality, Packaging and Logistics Essentials

Chickpeas are one of Canada's most reliable agri-food exports, shipped to buyers across the Middle East, South Asia and Europe. Starting a chickpea export business is straightforward, but success depends on getting the basics right: the right variety, the right quality, the right packaging and the right paperwork. This guide covers the essentials.

Know the two main types

Most chickpeas are either Kabuli (large, cream-coloured, used in hummus and salads) or Desi (smaller, darker, used in dals and flour). Kabuli is the larger export market, with strong demand in the Middle East and Europe. Desi is popular in South Asia. Be clear which type your buyer wants before you offer a price.

Quality and grading

Buyers expect clean, uniform seed. Check for moisture (usually 13 percent or less), purity, damaged or split seeds, and foreign matter. Ask for a sample and, on larger orders, an independent inspection certificate. Canadian chickpeas are graded to a national standard, which helps buyers trust the quality.

Packaging options

The most common packaging is new multi-wall paper or polypropylene bags of 25 kg or 50 kg, packed on pallets. Larger buyers may take bulk in containers or in bulk bags. Use clean, food-grade bags and clear labelling with the product name, origin (Canada), grade and net weight.

Logistics and shipping

A standard order is one 20-foot container (about 24 metric tons) or more. Chickpeas ship as dry cargo with no cold chain, so freight is simple. Transit from Vancouver to the Middle East or South Asia is typically 3 to 5 weeks. Agree the Incoterm in advance - FOB Vancouver or CIF destination port are the most common.

Documents you will need

Every shipment needs a commercial invoice, packing list and certificate of origin. Most destinations also require a phytosanitary certificate, and some require a fumigation certificate. Payment is usually by irrevocable letter of credit or agreed advance terms. Confirm your buyer's document requirements before the goods leave Canada.

How Export Global Venture can help

Export Global Venture sources chickpeas from Canadian growers and processors, checks quality before shipment, and coordinates packaging, documentation, inspection and logistics. Tell us your variety, quantity and destination port and we will prepare a quote and a delivery schedule.