One wrong species name on a phytosanitary certificate cost an exporter an entire container. Here's how to avoid the most common SPS errors.
Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) failures are the most expensive preventable errors in African exports. One SPS failure can destroy an entire shipment, lead to port rejection, and trigger suspension of import privileges.
Real example from the Traders Room: A Mozambican prawn exporter had an entire container (£18,000) rejected at Felixstowe because the phytosanitary certificate listed the wrong species name. The product was fine — just a clerical error.
The most common SPS mistakes
1. Wrong species name on phytosanitary certificate
2. Missing or expired veterinary certificates for meat/dairy
3. Pesticide residue levels exceeding UK Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs)
4. Cold chain breaks on perishable cargo
5. Packaging that doesn't meet hygiene standards
6. Missing traceability records (batch numbers, farm of origin)
Prevention checklist
• Triple-check species names, batch numbers, and quantities on ALL SPS documents against the invoice
• Apply for phytosanitary certificates at least 5 days before shipment
• Maintain cold chain documentation with temperature logs
• Test pesticide levels before shipping (not after rejection)
• Keep traceability records from farm to port
• Use the Export Checklist to verify every document before dispatch
Products requiring SPS certificates: fresh produce, cut flowers, meat, fish, dairy, seeds, grains, plants, and processed foods.
The cost of prevention is trivial compared to the cost of a rejected container. Build SPS compliance into your standard operating procedure.