Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about shipping petroleum products with us.
What is a freight forwarder?
A freight forwarder organises the transport of your goods. We arrange tankers, tank containers and container space, prepare the documents and coordinate loading and discharge, so you deal with one company instead of many.
How do I get a price?
Use the quote form or email us with the product, quantity, load port, destination and timing. We usually reply within 24 hours.
Which shipping method is right for my product?
Tankers suit large bulk quantities. ISO tanks suit lots of around 20,000–26,000 litres, including hazardous fuels. Drums and IBCs suit packed products and smaller lots. Flexitanks suit non-hazardous base oils and lubricants. We’ll advise on the best option.
Can diesel or gasoline go in a flexitank?
No. Flexitanks are only for non-hazardous liquids. Fuels such as diesel, gasoline and jet fuel go by ISO tank or tanker.
What is the difference between CPP and DPP?
Clean petroleum products (CPP) are light refined products such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and naphtha. Dirty petroleum products (DPP) are heavier, such as fuel oil and crude.
How long does shipping take?
It depends on the route and method. A tanker voyage from Rotterdam to West Africa usually takes around two to three weeks. Container services for ISO tanks, drums and flexitanks typically take 2–6 weeks.
What documents do I need?
Usually a commercial invoice, the safety data sheet (SDS) and a product specification or certificate of quality. Some countries also require import licences. We’ll tell you exactly what’s needed.
How do you handle dangerous goods?
Most petroleum products are dangerous goods, such as Class 3 flammable liquids. Packed and tank cargoes are shipped under the IMDG Code and bulk oil cargoes under MARPOL Annex I. We make sure the classification, packaging, labels and declarations are correct.
Do you arrange cargo inspection?
Yes. We coordinate independent inspectors to check quantity and quality at loading and discharge.
Do you offer cargo insurance?
We can arrange cargo insurance on request. We recommend it for every petroleum shipment.
Can I track my shipment?
Yes. We send updates at each key milestone and give you the vessel name, container or tank numbers and B/L number for tracking.
Do you ship to Africa?
Yes. We ship to and from ports across West, East and Southern Africa, including Lagos, Tema, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam and Durban.
Do you ship anything other than petroleum products?
No. We specialise in petroleum products only.
Still have a question? Contact our team. We’re happy to help.
Ready to ship?
Tell us the product, quantity and route, and get a free, no-obligation quote within 24 hours.