Onion

Buyers should prioritize onions that are firm, heavy for their size, and have dry, papery outer skins. Avoid bulbs with visible sprouts, soft spots, or dark mold patches, as these indicate internal decay. For industrial or retail use, ensure the neck is tight and dry to prevent moisture ingress. Requesting a dry matter content analysis is also recommended for processing-grade onions to ensure they meet dehydration or frying standards.

Onions must comply with Phytosanitary Regulations to prevent the spread of pests like the onion fly or stem nematode. A Phytosanitary Certificate issued by the exporting country's national plant protection organization is mandatory. Additionally, ensure the product meets Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for pesticides as defined by the Codex Alimentarius or specific regional standards like EU REACH/Food Law or US FDA requirements.

Contracts should clearly specify the Variety (e.g., Yellow, Red, White), Size Grade (e.g., 40-60mm, 60-80mm, or 80mm+), and Curing Status. Onions must be properly cured (dried) to ensure the outer skins are intact, which is vital for long-distance sea freight. Specify the allowable percentage of defects (usually <5%) and the packaging type, such as mesh bags (10kg/25kg) or jumbo bags for industrial buyers.

For food processing and dehydration, high-solids white onions are preferred. For retail and household consumption, yellow onions are the most common due to their long shelf life and versatile flavor. For fresh salads or gourmet markets, red onions are selected for their color and milder taste. Buyers should align their choice with the end-user's storage capabilities, as yellow onions generally offer the best storage stability for long-distance shipping.

The biggest risk is sprouting or rotting during transit due to poor ventilation or temperature fluctuations. Onions should be shipped in reefer containers with a temperature setting of 0°C to 4°C and a relative humidity of 65% to 70%. Ensure the ventilation is set to open to prevent CO2 buildup. It is highly recommended to use data loggers to monitor environmental conditions throughout the voyage.

When sourcing via Made-in-China.com, prioritize Audited Suppliers who have undergone third-party verification. Use Secured Trading Services to protect payments until the goods pass inspection. Negotiate a payment structure that includes a deposit (e.g., 30%) with the balance paid against the Bill of Lading (B/L) and a successful Pre-shipment Inspection (PSI) report.

Beyond the standard Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Bill of Lading, buyers must secure a Phytosanitary Certificate, a Certificate of Origin (to benefit from preferential tariffs), and a Quality Inspection Certificate (such as SGS or BV). For certain markets, a Fumigation Certificate may be required to prove the cargo is free from live insects.

Onion prices are highly seasonal and sensitive to weather conditions. To mitigate risk, consider long-term supply contracts with fixed pricing or staggered purchasing to average out costs. Monitoring export policies and quotas in major producing regions is crucial, as sudden export bans can disrupt supply chains and spike prices.