Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions importers ask most about ordering, pricing, shipping, documents and species.
Ordering and pricing
How are prices quoted?
All prices are per cubic metre (m³). The price on each species page is an indicative starting price for standard sawn grade, FOB Central Africa. Your written quotation confirms the exact price for your grade, sizes, drying, volume and Incoterms.
What is the minimum order?
Most buyers order one 20 ft or 40 ft container. We also arrange mixed-species containers and smaller trial orders, so you can test quality before scaling up.
Can I order online?
Yes. You can add a volume in cubic metres to your cart and check out by bank transfer. We then send a pro-forma invoice confirming sizes, grade, Incoterms and shipping schedule. For custom cutting lists, use the quote form.
What payment terms do you accept?
Typically a deposit by bank transfer with the balance against copy shipping documents, or an irrevocable letter of credit at sight. Terms are confirmed on each pro-forma invoice.
Can you cut to my sizes?
Yes. Send your cutting list with thickness, width, length and grade. We cut, dry and grade to your specification.
Shipping and delivery
Which ports do you ship from?
Douala and Kribi in Cameroon, Owendo in Gabon and Pointe-Noire in the Republic of Congo, depending on the species and where it is produced.
How long does delivery take?
Stock sizes are usually ready to load in 2–4 weeks, custom or kiln-dried orders in 4–8 weeks. Sea transit is about 3–5 weeks to Europe and 5–7 weeks to the Americas.
How much timber fits in a container?
About 18–25 m³ of sawn timber in a 20 ft container and 40–50 m³ in a 40 ft container, depending on species density and dimensions.
Who pays import duties?
The buyer pays import duties, taxes, customs clearance and local delivery from the destination port, unless agreed otherwise in writing.
Documents and legality
Which documents come with a shipment?
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, phytosanitary certificate, legality documents, a fumigation certificate where required and a CITES export permit for listed species.
Which species need a CITES permit?
African Mahogany (Khaya), Padouk, Doussie (Afzelia), Afrormosia and Bubinga are listed in CITES Appendix II. We supply the export permit with every shipment of these species.
Is your timber EUDR and Lacey Act compliant?
Our documents are prepared to support your due diligence under the EU Deforestation Regulation, the UK Timber Regulation and the US Lacey Act. See our sustainability page for details.
Species and quality
Which species are best for outdoor use?
For decking, marine and ground contact choose very durable species such as Iroko, Azobe, Tali, Padouk, Doussie or Bilinga.
What moisture content do you supply?
Joinery and furniture grades are kiln dried to 10–12% (8–10% on request). Heavy structural sizes are supplied air dried or fresh sawn.
What if the timber does not match my order?
Submit a claim within 14 days of arrival with photos. We replace, credit or refund non-conforming volume. See our refund and returns policy.
Still have a question?
For prices, availability and quotes, email sales@globaltimbertradehub.com. For general enquiries, documents or partnerships, email info@globaltimbertradehub.com. We reply within one business day.