Size grading
Whole round fish is graded by pieces per kilogram or by weight per piece, for example 200–300 g or 300–500 g for mackerel. Ask how the size range is stated and what tolerance applies.
Freezing, glazing and packing
Pelagic fish is usually blast- or plate-frozen in blocks, often 20 kg cartons, and sometimes individually quick frozen (IQF). Glazing is a protective ice layer; confirm whether quoted weights are net or include glaze, and the glaze percentage.
Cold chain and documents
Frozen fish ships in reefer containers at -18 °C or colder. Typical documents include a health certificate, certificate of origin, catch or traceability documentation and the approved establishment number accepted by the destination country.
What to include in your RFQ
State species, size grade, freezing method, glaze, packing, quantity per reefer, destination port, Incoterm and the import approvals required in your market.
For professional buyers
Request a current quotation
BSL Enterprises confirms specification, availability and terms for each transaction in a written quotation. To receive a precise offer, include:
- Quantity per shipment and per year
- Destination port or delivery place
- Grade, specification and packaging
- Preferred Incoterm and documents
Products covered in this guide: Atlantic Mackerel, Horse Mackerel, Sardines, Herring.
Request current quotationEditorial note: this guide summarises general procurement practice and recognised trade and specification frameworks where they apply. It is reviewed and updated as needed and is not a statement of BSL stock, pricing or capacity.