How to Ship Mangoes Safely (Domestic & International)

Shipping mangoes intact requires three things: pre-ripe stage at packing, cushioned packaging, and cold-chain compliance for long-haul. Done right, mangoes can travel 14-21 days.

Step-by-Step

1. 1

   Pick at the right stage

   Domestic shipping (1-3 days): pick at 70% ripe — gives slightly to thumb. International (5-21 days): pick at 50-60% ripe — firm but not hard. The mango ripens during transit.

2. 2

   Wrap each mango individually

   Wrap each fruit in food-safe paper or tissue. Avoid newspaper for international (ink concerns). Foam fruit nets prevent skin abrasion. Each mango should not touch another fruit directly.

3. 3

   Use a double-walled corrugated box

   Pack mangoes stem-up in a single layer or 2-layer max. Add foam corner protectors. Fill empty space with crumpled paper or air pillows. Box weight should not exceed 5kg for international, 10kg for domestic.

4. 4

   Cold-chain for international

   Add 2-4 ice gel packs (frozen) wrapped in absorbent cloth on TOP of the mangoes (cold sinks down). Use a foil-lined thermal liner for routes longer than 5 days. Target 12-15°C internal temperature.

5. 5

   Choose the right courier

   Pakistan domestic: TCS Sentiments, Leopards Courier, M&P Express — same-day to 48-hour delivery. International: FedEx Priority, DHL Express, UPS Worldwide Saver — 2-5 day to UAE/UK/USA. Avoid economy ground for fresh fruit.

6. 6

   Comply with customs

   USA: Pakistani mangoes require USDA APHIS irradiation (400 Gy) — performed on US arrival, not in Pakistan. UK: needs phytosanitary certificate from DPP Pakistan. UAE: no special treatment, just commercial invoice. Canada: phytosanitary required.

FAQs