Clove Import Guide: MOQ, Payment Terms & Shipping Docs

Importing whole clove from Indonesia may begin with an unforgettable aroma, but successful first shipments depend on clear trade terms. For buyers sourcing Syzygium aromaticum—known locally as cengkeh—from highland estates in Tasikmalaya and Central Java, TasikSpice simplifies the process with transparent MOQ, flexible payment terms, and complete shipping documentation. Here is exactly what first-time spice importers need to know for the 2026 season.

MOQ for Bulk Clove Indonesia: What First-Time Importers Should Expect

At TasikSpice, the standard minimum order quantity for bulk clove Indonesia is one 20-foot container, typically between 8 and 10 metric tons depending on whether we pack in 50 kg polypropylene bags or 25 kg vacuum-packed cartons. For buyers who want to test the market, we can arrange smaller trial lots starting at 1 metric ton. Keep in mind that freight cost per kilogram rises significantly for LCL (less than container load) shipments, so a full container almost always offers better landed value.

Before you commit to an MOQ, request a pre-shipment sample. TasikSpice sends 500 g to 1 kg of the exact lot from the 2026 harvest so you can assess color, size uniformity, moisture, and the intensity of the clove’s eugenol content. We also provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) with each offer, showing eugenol percentage, moisture, volatile oil, and foreign matter. This step protects you from receiving material that looks good in a photo but fails your quality specification.

Payment Terms: T/T, L/C, and First-Order Protection

For first-time importers, TasikSpice accepts Telegraphic Transfer (T/T) and irrevocable Letter of Credit (L/C) at sight. The most common structure for a first order is 30% T/T deposit with the balance paid before shipment, or 50% deposit and 50% against scanned copy of shipping documents. This gives both sides security without tying up your capital for months.

Larger orders or repeat shipments often move to an irrevocable L/C at sight issued through a reputable bank. If you choose L/C, always send us a draft L/C before your bank issues it. Small discrepancies can delay release of goods and add amendment fees. We will help you align the L/C terms with our FOB Tanjung Priok, Jakarta quotation and the actual 2026 harvest calendar.

L/C Tips for First-Time Clove Buyers

• Specify the port of loading as Tanjung Priok, Jakarta, Indonesia.
• Allow at least 21 days for shipment after the L/C is received and accepted.
• Request partial shipment allowed if your MOQ may ship in more than one lot.
• Include a quantity and amount tolerance of ±5% to avoid discrepancies.
• State documents required: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, phytosanitary certificate, fumigation certificate, and COA.

If you are new to L/C, TasikSpice can recommend structuring the first order on T/T while you build confidence. Contact our export team on WhatsApp at +62 812-9869-9940 and we will send a proforma invoice with clear payment instructions.

Shipping Documentation for Whole Clove Export from Indonesia

Every container of eugenol-rich clove shipped from Indonesia must be accompanied by a clean set of documents. As a dedicated clove spice supplier, TasikSpice prepares the following for FOB Tanjung Priok shipments:

• Commercial Invoice – states product name, HS code 0907.10.00 for cloves, quantity, unit price, total value, and incoterm.
• Packing List – details net/gross weight, number of bags, container seal, and batch number.
• Bill of Lading (B/L) – issued by the shipping line, marked 'freight collect' for FOB orders or 'freight prepaid' if you arrange CIF/CFR.
• Certificate of Origin – issued by Indonesian authorities; Form E applies to China-ASEAN destinations, other forms for different trade agreements.
• Phytosanitary Certificate – confirms the cloves are free from quarantine pests, issued by the Indonesian Agricultural Quarantine Agency.
• Fumigation Certificate – required by many countries for dried spices; methyl bromide or phosphine treatment with details of temperature and duration.
• Certificate of Analysis (COA) – laboratory report showing eugenol content, moisture level, volatile oil, ash, and microbiological data.
• Health Certificate or Halal Certificate – if required by the destination market; TasikSpice can arrange additional certification on request.

For first-time importers, documentation mismatches are the most common cause of customs delays. We recommend sharing your country’s import permit requirements before shipment. Our team reviews every document for consistency with the L/C or contract, so your goods clear customs with fewer surprises.

Why TasikSpice for Your 2026 Whole Clove Import Program

TasikSpice sources eugenol-rich clove from smallholder farms on the volcanic slopes of Tasikmalaya and partner estates in Central Java. The 2026 season has delivered good flowering and careful post-harvest drying, producing whole clove with a deep reddish-brown color, high oil content, and the sweet-pungent profile buyers in the Middle East, South Asia, and Europe expect. We grade cloves by size and color, remove stems and mother cloves by hand and machine, and pack in food-grade materials to protect aroma during transit.

While clove prices move with seasonality and global demand, TasikSpice keeps pricing transparent. Our quotations are FOB Tanjung Priok, Jakarta, and we share current 2026 season rates after understanding your target spec and volume. This allows you to compare landed cost against other origins before committing. As your clove spice supplier, we are happy to provide a full landed cost simulation with freight forwarder recommendations.

Start your first clove import with confidence. Ask for a sample, request a proforma invoice, or discuss MOQ and L/C terms with TasikSpice on WhatsApp at +62 812-9869-9940 or visit our website for the 2026 whole clove specifications.