Export Warehousing Guide
Choose the right warehousing solution for your exports. From bonded facilities to cold storage, learn how to optimize your storage and logistics operations.
Types of Export Warehouses
General Purpose Warehouse
$0.50-2.00/sq ft/monthStandard storage for non-perishable goods like manufactured products, textiles, and dry goods.
Best for: Manufactured goods, textiles, handicrafts
Bonded Warehouse
$1.00-3.00/sq ft/monthCustoms-approved facility where goods can be stored without paying duties until released for export or import.
Best for: Transit goods, re-exports, duty-free storage
Cold Storage Warehouse
$3.00-8.00/sq ft/monthTemperature-controlled facilities for perishable goods maintaining specific temperature ranges.
Best for: Fresh produce, meat, dairy, pharmaceuticals
Free Trade Zone (FTZ) Warehouse
$1.50-4.00/sq ft/monthLocated in designated zones with special customs treatment and tax benefits.
Best for: Re-exports, assembly, regional distribution
Bulk Storage Facility
Per MT basis variesSpecialized for large quantities of commodities like grains, minerals, or liquids.
Best for: Grains, minerals, oils, bulk commodities
Consolidation Warehouse
Per handling basisFacility for combining multiple smaller shipments into full container loads (FCL).
Best for: Groupage exports, multi-origin shipments
Warehouse Selection Criteria
| Criteria | Importance |
|---|---|
| Location | Critical |
| Security | Critical |
| Temperature Control | High |
| Customs Status | High |
| Handling Equipment | Medium |
| Documentation | Medium |
| Certifications | Medium |
| Flexibility | Medium |
Major African Warehousing Hubs
South Africa
Durban, JohannesburgModern facilities, logistics integration, cold chain
Kenya
Mombasa, NairobiEast Africa gateway, free zones, consolidation
Nigeria
Lagos (Apapa, TinCan)Largest market, bonded facilities, but congestion
Ghana
Tema, AccraGrowing infrastructure, cocoa/agri focus
Morocco
Tangier, CasablancaTanger Med FTZ, Europe gateway, automotive
Egypt
Alexandria, Port SaidSuez Canal proximity, FTZs, regional hub
Côte d'Ivoire
AbidjanCocoa handling, West Africa distribution
Tanzania
Dar es SalaamEast/Central Africa gateway, bonded
Cold Storage Requirements by Product
| Product | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Fresh Fruits | 0°C to 8°C |
| Fresh Vegetables | 0°C to 7°C |
| Fresh Flowers | 2°C to 5°C |
| Frozen Fish | -18°C to -25°C |
| Frozen Meat | -18°C to -22°C |
| Dairy Products | 2°C to 6°C |
| Pharmaceuticals | 2°C to 8°C |
| Chocolate/Confectionery | 12°C to 18°C |
Warehousing Cost Factors
Space Rental
Base rate per square foot or pallet position per month
Handling Charges
In/out fees for loading, unloading, moving goods
Storage Duration
Longer terms often get discounts; short-term premium rates
Special Requirements
Cold storage, hazmat, security add premium
Value-Added Services
Labeling, repacking, quality inspection, documentation
Insurance
Coverage for stored goods - usually % of value
Minimum Charges
Many warehouses have minimum billing thresholds