Bulk Coffee Beans for Export: The Complete Guide to Global Sourcing

The global trade of bulk coffee beans for export represents a $30+ billion industry, with specialty coffee demand growing at 8% annually. For exporters, roasters, and international buyers, understanding how to navigate this complex market is essential for securing quality beans at competitive prices while meeting international trade regulations. Indonesia stands as the world’s fourth-largest coffee producer, offering distinctive varieties like Java Preanger and Sumatran Mandheling that are increasingly sought after in specialty markets worldwide.

At Java Preanger, we’ve specialized in exporting premium Indonesian arabica since 2010, helping international buyers source container loads of certified specialty coffee with full traceability. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about exporting bulk coffee beans, from quality standards to logistics optimization.

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Table of Contents

1. Understanding the Global Coffee Export Market

2. Top Coffee Varieties for Bulk Export

3. Export Quality Standards and Certifications

4. How to Source Reliable Bulk Coffee Suppliers

5. Bulk Coffee Pricing and MOQs (2024 Update)

6. The Complete Export Process Step-by-Step

7. Logistics and Shipping Considerations

8. Current Trends in Coffee Exports

9. FAQ: Bulk Coffee Beans for Export

10. Partnering with Trusted Export Suppliers

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Understanding the Global Coffee Export Market

Key 2024 Market Statistics:

Why Indonesia Excels in Bulk Coffee Exports:

• Diverse growing regions: Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, Bali

• Unique processing methods: Wet-hulling (Giling Basah)

• Competitive pricing: 15-20% below comparable Central/South American arabica

• Year-round availability: Staggered harvest seasons across islands

Market Insight: The bulk coffee beans for export market is shifting toward fully traceable, sustainable lots with verified quality scores.

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Top Coffee Varieties for Bulk Export

1. Indonesian Arabica

• Java Preanger: Floral, tea-like (SCA 83-87)

• Sumatra Mandheling: Earthy, full-bodied (SCA 82-86)

• Sulawesi Toraja: Spicy, balanced (SCA 83-86)

2. Brazilian Santos

• Nutty, chocolatey (SCA 80-84)

• Ideal for espresso blends

3. Colombian Excelso

• Bright, caramel (SCA 83-86)

• Consistent quality

4. Ethiopian Yirgacheffe

• Floral, citrusy (SCA 85-89)

• High-demand specialty

Bulk Export Suitability Comparison:

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Export Quality Standards and Certifications

Essential Quality Markers:

• Moisture content: 10-12%

• Defect count: <5 full defects/350g (specialty)

• Bean density: Hard bean preferred

• Screen size: Consistent (typically 15-18)

Key Export Certifications:

1. Organic (USDA, EU)

2. Fair Trade

3. Rainforest Alliance

4. UTZ Certified

5. Kosher

Pro Tip: Java Preanger provides complete certification packages including SCA cupping reports for all export shipments.

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How to Source Reliable Bulk Coffee Suppliers

Supplier Evaluation Checklist:

• Physical presence in origin country

• Export licenses and documentation

• Quality control processes

• Logistics capabilities

• Financial stability

• References from existing clients

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Unwillingness to provide samples

• Vague origin information

• Prices significantly below market

• Lack of proper documentation

Verification Process:

1. Request current crop samples

2. Review export documentation

3. Check third-party certifications

4. Visit processing facilities if possible

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Bulk Coffee Pricing and MOQs (2024 Update)

Current Price Ranges (FOB):

Price Factors:

• Quantity: Container loads (18-20MT) offer best rates

• Certifications: Organic adds 15-20%

• Processing: Washed/honey +10-15%

• Payment terms: Larger deposits may reduce costs

Example: A container of SCA 84 Java Preanger (18MT) might be $7,500/MT, while 5MT could be $8,250/MT.

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The Complete Export Process Step-by-Step

1. Supplier Selection (4-8 weeks)

• Identify 3-5 potential suppliers

• Evaluate samples and documentation

2. Contract Negotiation

• Agree on quality specs, quantity, price

• Determine Incoterms (FOB common)

• Payment terms (30% deposit typical)

3. Pre-Shipment Preparation

• Final quality inspection

• Packaging (jute/GrainPro)

• Documentation preparation

4. Shipping Arrangements

• Book vessel space

• Arrange inland transport

• Handle customs clearance

5. Post-Shipment Follow-up

• Track shipment

• Prepare import documents

• Quality verification upon arrival

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Logistics and Shipping Considerations

Key Factors in Coffee Export Logistics:

• Packaging: Jute bags (standard) vs GrainPro (premium)

• Container types: Dry vs refrigerated

• Shipping routes: Direct vs transshipment

• Transit times: 20-45 days typically

• Insurance: All-risk recommended

Documentation Checklist:

• Commercial Invoice

• Packing List

• Certificate of Origin

• Phytosanitary Certificate

• Bill of Lading

• Quality Certificates

Logistics Tip: Java Preanger handles complete export documentation and can arrange door-to-door logistics for buyers.

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Current Trends in Coffee Exports

The global coffee export market is evolving with several notable 2024 trends:

• Direct trade growth: More roasters importing directly

• Sustainability focus: Carbon-neutral shipping options

• Digital platforms: Online B2B marketplaces expanding

• Quality standardization: SCA protocols becoming baseline

• Climate challenges: Affecting yields and quality

• Price volatility: Due to supply chain disruptions

Emerging Opportunity: The Middle East and Asian markets are growing at 10-12% annually for specialty coffee imports.

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FAQ: Bulk Coffee Beans for Export

1. What’s the minimum order for bulk export?

Most suppliers require at least 5 metric tons, with better pricing at full container loads (18-20MT).

2. How do payments typically work?

Standard practice is 30% deposit with order, 70% against shipping documents.

3. Which certifications add the most value?

Organic and Fair Trade command 15-25% price premiums in Western markets.

4. How should coffee be stored before export?

In cool (15-20°C), dry conditions with good ventilation, ideally in GrainPro bags.

5. What’s the shelf life of green coffee for export?

Properly stored green coffee maintains quality for 12-18 months from harvest.

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Partnering with Trusted Export Suppliers

For businesses looking to source bulk coffee beans for export, Java Preanger offers:

• Direct farm relationships across Indonesia

• Full export documentation and certifications

• Container quantities of specialty-grade coffee

• Sustainable pricing models supporting farmers

Ready to export premium Indonesian coffee? Contact our export team for current crop availability and samples.