There is an added layer of complexity with Easter logistics, as after the mad rush of Easter weekend shipping, demand for Easter eggs naturally reduces very quickly. Having a well-planned supply chain for your cocoa imports and subsequent chocolate exports not only helps you avoid overstocking but also means you can adjust your levels of stock quickly depending on changes in customer demand.

As well as planning and forecasting well in advance, there are also certain technologies that can be employed to help you create inventory optimisation strategies. Ultimately, this enables you to become more reactive during periods of seasonal demand, helping you develop long term strategies for success.

There is also the opportunity for you to enhance your chocolate production through your cocoa supply chain by working with suppliers who comply with Fair Trade regulations. Not only does this help work towards more sustainable chocolate production, but as a business this level of transparency also enhances your reputation and encourages greater stakeholder investment.

Whether you’re shipping Easter eggs or cocoa beans, it’s crucial to ensure your logistics are well planned to avoid a sugary nightmare. Certain logistical elements that need to be considered include:

Time
Cocoa bean exports must be shipped shortly after being harvested to maximise their quality and avoid damage caused by humidity. Equally, chocolate generally needs to be shipped within three days to ensure it retains its optimum quality. Because of this, it’s vital to plan out your shipping schedule in advance and work with an experienced global shipping company who have the resources to ensure your chocolate cargo arrives at its final destination without delay.

Temperature
The temperature at which your cocoa and chocolate cargo is shipped is equally as important as the time taken during shipping. While cocoa exports are generally best shipped in dry cargo containers, as excess moisture can damage the cargo, Easter eggs and other types of chocolate are better shipped in refrigerated containers. This helps keep the chocolate at the correct temperature to maintain its delicious quality and prevents melting and subsequent disappointment!

Packaging
Similarly, the packaging of cocoa exports is highly important to preserve their quality. As cocoa beans absorb moisture from the air, and are extremely sensitive to temperature fluctuations, minimising water levels in the air is crucial. It is also vital that cocoa exports are thoroughly dried before being exported, as they can also release water during transit, resulting in significant cargo loss.

When it comes to shipping Easter eggs, the packaging is also critical to maintain their unique shape and avoid damage. Chocolate in general is also known for acquiring the smell of other foods during refrigeration, so it’s important to ensure it’s packaged separately when being shipped to avoid any unfortunate odour absorption.