What is the minimum order quantity?
- Minimum order20 ft container = 15 tons
- 40 ft container27 tons
- Factory capacity100 tons / month
The minimum is tied to sea freight: a container is booked and paid for in full, so filling it lowers freight cost per ton. A 20 ft container with 15 tons is about 1,500 cartons of 10 kg, each holding 10 boxes of 1 kg, 20 of 500 g or 40 of 250 g. Full calculation in container capacity.
Lead time and what affects it
Lead time is 15 to 35 days and depends on:
- Quantity: one container is faster than several.
- Private label packaging: a new design needs time for approval and printing before packing. See the private label guide.
- Drying and cooling: charcoal needs time to dry and stabilise before packing. This step should not be rushed because it affects quality and shipping safety.
- Season and bookings: demand rises ahead of peak seasons in shisha markets, and container and vessel availability changes week to week.
First-order timeline
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1. Quote request | You send specs and quantity; we reply within 24 hours |
| 2. Proforma invoice | Specs, price, shipping term, payment and dates confirmed |
| 3. Payment or L/C | According to the agreed payment method |
| 4. Pack approval | For private label orders |
| 5. Production, drying, packing | Within the lead time (15 – 35 days) |
| 6. Loading and shipping | From Damietta, Port Said, Alexandria or Ain Sokhna |
| 7. Sea transit and clearance | Depends on destination port and carrier |
All steps in detail in how to import hookah charcoal from Egypt.
Planning tips
- Work out your monthly sales: if you sell 5 tons a month, a 20 ft container covers about 3 months. Order the next one early enough to cover production, shipping and clearance.
- Order ahead of peak season: such as Ramadan and summer in many markets.
- Prepare your pack design early: the fastest way to shorten a first order.
- Plan storage: large quantities need a dry, well-ventilated warehouse, as explained in how to store hookah charcoal.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum order for coconut charcoal?
One 20 ft container with 15 tons.
How long does production take?
15 to 35 days depending on quantity, after order confirmation, the agreed payment and pack approval.
How many cartons fit in a 20 ft container?
About 1,500 cartons of 10 kg (15 tons), and about 2,700 cartons in a 40 ft container (27 tons).
What is your production capacity?
100 tons per month.
How can I shorten my first order?
Send full specifications from the start, prepare your pack design early if private label, and order well before peak season.
Further reading: