A bulk liquid quote is only as good as the information behind it. When key details are missing, everyone fills the gaps with assumptions. That’s how a number that looked great on day one turns into extra charges, delays or a container nobody can unload.
Here’s what helps the most. You don’t need all of it to start a conversation, but the more you have, the more reliable the quote.
1. The product and its safety data sheet
The product name and grade, plus the SDS. Classification decides which equipment can be used, how the shipment is documented and which carriers will accept it. It’s the single most useful document you can share up front.
2. Volumes, per shipment and over time
How much moves per shipment, and how often. A single spot move and a recurring program are priced and planned differently, and recurring volume opens up options that a one-off doesn’t.
3. Origin, destination and Incoterms
Where the product is picked up and where it needs to be delivered: a door, a port, a plant. Include the Incoterms too, so it’s clear who is responsible for each leg and each cost.
4. Equipment preference, or the reasons behind it
If you already know you want a flexitank, an ISO tank or IBCs, say so. If you’re not sure, share what you know about the product and the receiver, and we can work it out. (Here’s a comparison of the three.)
5. Temperature, cleanliness and certificates
Does the product need heating? Is it food-grade? Does the receiver need specific cleaning documents or product certificates? These can change both the equipment and the cost.
6. How the destination unloads
Can the receiving site discharge a bulk tank or a flexitank? Do they have pumps, hoses, heating, a forklift for IBCs? It’s easy to overlook, and expensive to discover on arrival.
7. Timing
When the product will be ready, and when it needs to arrive. Even an approximate window helps match the right sailing or flight.
Short version: product + SDS, volumes, origin and destination, Incoterms, equipment, temperature and handling, receiver setup, timing.
If you’d like to send these over, you can email me at luna@stephaniluna.com, in English or Spanish.