Yes. Most Indian grinding units will load several spice powders in one container, and it is a common way to reach a full load when you need modest amounts of each. Plan the mix with the supplier early, because each product needs its own lot, testing, labelling and lines in the documents.
A mixed container is simplest when every product comes from one supplier. It is possible from several suppliers, but the coordination grows quickly.
One supplier or several
With one supplier, one company packs, loads and issues the documents, and one party is responsible if something goes wrong. With several suppliers, goods must be brought to one loading point, or consolidated by a forwarder, and each supplier issues its own documents for its part.
If your volume is well below a container, shared space may suit you better. See buying less than a full container.
Practical points for the load
- Minimum per product. Many plants set a minimum run for each powder, so ask before you split the order too finely. See minimum order quantities.
- Lots. Every powder needs its own lot number, printed on every bag.
- Taint. Strong-smelling products such as asafoetida and garlic powder can taint others. Pack them in sealed liners and keep them apart in the container.
- Allergens. Mustard and celery products should be packed, marked and placed so that a damaged bag cannot contaminate other goods.
- Stowage. Put heavier bags low, mark each product clearly, and load in the order you will unload.
- Packaging. Agree one packing specification for all lines where possible, so the load stacks well.
Documents for a mixed load
- Commercial invoice and packing list with one line per product, lot number and net and gross weight.
- The correct HS code for each product. Different spices and blends often fall under different codes.
- A certificate of analysis for each lot.
- A certificate of origin covering all lines.
- Any health, phytosanitary or Spices Board certificates your market requires, for each product they apply to.
Before you confirm
Ask your customs broker to check the draft documents for a mixed load before shipment. One error on one line can hold the whole container. Our guide to the document pack your broker will ask for lists the usual set.
At loading, ask for photos of each product being loaded, with lot labels visible, and the seal number.
Also agree what happens if one product fails its test. Will the container wait, or ship without it? Settling this in advance avoids a rushed decision and an underfilled container.
How we help
We plan the product mix and loading order with the supplier, check each lot's test results and supervise the loading with photos of every line. To plan a mixed powder container, ask for a free sourcing review.