Exporting bulk lentils requires more than just harvesting and packaging—it demands a reliable logistics system and advanced shipping solutions to maintain product quality, reduce costs, and ensure timely delivery. For importers worldwide, Iranian lentils stand out not only for their nutritional value and competitive pricing but also for their well-established export infrastructure.

In this article, we dive into the logistics framework and cold-chain shipping strategies that make Iranian lentil exports efficient and attractive to global buyers.

Why Logistics Matter in the Lentil Supply Chain?

The journey of lentils from Iranian farms to international markets involves multiple stages:

1.   Harvesting & Primary Processing – Cleaning, grading, and sorting.

2.   Packaging – Designed to protect bulk and retail-ready shipments.

3.   Warehousing & Storage – Ensuring lentils remain free of moisture, pests, and contamination.

4.   Transportation & Shipping – Domestic movement to ports and international distribution.

5.   Customs Clearance – Smooth compliance with importing country regulations.

Efficient logistics minimize risks, reduce costs, and enhance trust between exporters and international buyers.

Cold-Chain Shipping: Is It Necessary for Lentils?

Unlike perishable products such as fruits, dairy, or meat, lentils do not require constant refrigeration. However, in global trade, cold-chain solutions are sometimes applied to lentils, especially when:

•    Humidity control is required to prevent mold or spoilage.

•    Long-distance sea freight passes through tropical climates.

•    Buyers demand extended shelf life and strict quality assurance.

•    Organic or specialty lentils are exported and require premium preservation.

Thus, while lentils are relatively stable, temperature and humidity-controlled shipping adds an extra layer of quality assurance for high-value markets.

Packaging & Storage Standards for Bulk Iranian Lentils

To maintain freshness and avoid contamination, Iranian exporters follow international packaging guidelines:

•    Bulk Packaging: 25kg, 50kg polypropylene woven bags with inner liners.

•    Retail Packaging: 1kg to 5kg laminated pouches for supermarkets and distributors.

•    Moisture Barrier Solutions: Vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-flushed packaging for organic exports.

Storage facilities in Iran are equipped with ventilation, pest control, and humidity regulation, ensuring lentils remain export-ready year-round.

Shipping Methods for Iranian Lentil Exports

1. Sea Freight (Most Common)

•    Cost-effective for large bulk orders.

•    Containers with ventilation or climate control are used for premium shipments.

•    Ideal for destinations in Europe, Africa, and Asia.

2. Rail & Land Transport

•    Efficient for regional exports to Turkey, Iraq, Central Asia, and the Caucasus.

•    Shorter transit times compared to sea freight.

3. Air Freight (Premium & Urgent Orders)

•    Used for smaller high-value shipments or urgent government tenders.

•    More expensive but ensures fastest delivery.

Role of Iranian Ports in Lentil Export Logistics

Key Iranian ports like Bandar Abbas, Bandar Imam Khomeini, and Chabahar serve as gateways for bulk lentil shipments. Their advanced container handling, refrigerated storage facilities, and strong connectivity ensure smooth trade flows.

Overcoming Logistics Challenges

Like any agricultural export, lentil logistics face potential challenges:

•    Port congestion in peak seasons

•    Customs regulations varying by destination

•    Geopolitical trade routes shifting with global events

•    Delays in transshipment hubs

To counter these, experienced exporters like Tamila Agrifood Company employ multi-modal logistics, strong partnerships with freight forwarders, and pre-cleared documentation to ensure hassle-free delivery.

Future of Cold-Chain & Smart Logistics in Lentil Trade

Global supply chains are evolving with technology:

•    IoT-enabled smart containers to track humidity and temperature.

•    Sustainable logistics with eco-friendly packaging and carbon-neutral shipping.

•    Blockchain-based traceability ensuring transparency for importers.

These innovations will further strengthen the competitiveness of Iranian lentils in global markets.

Why Importers Trust Iranian Lentil Logistics?

•    Access to major ports with global connectivity

•    Flexible shipping options (sea, rail, land, air)

•    Advanced packaging & storage facilities

•    Capability to provide cold-chain solutions when required

•    Cost-efficient logistics compared to other suppliers

At Tamila Agrifood Company, we combine high-quality lentil supply with end-to-end logistics solutions, ensuring our clients receive their shipments on time, in perfect condition, and at competitive costs.

Final Thoughts

Efficient logistics and cold-chain shipping are key enablers of successful lentil exports. With its strategic location, strong infrastructure, and experienced exporters, Iran is well-positioned to meet the global demand for lentils while ensuring top-notch delivery standards.

Looking to import bulk Iranian lentils with reliable logistics? Contact Tamila Agrifood Company today for tailored shipping solutions and competitive quotations.

Email:  tamilaagrifood@gmail.com

Phone / WhatsApp:  +989141858935