As Ghana's 2026/27 main cocoa season approaches, logistics planning is essential for exporters looking to move their product efficiently to international markets. Ghana remains the world's second-largest cocoa producer, and the logistics infrastructure supporting the cocoa value chain must operate at peak efficiency during the October-to-March harvest season.

McDan Shipping's agricultural logistics team has compiled key considerations for the upcoming season. First, early booking of ocean freight space is critical. Container availability tightens significantly from October onwards as demand from multiple West African origins peaks simultaneously. Exporters who secure allocations early benefit from better rates and guaranteed sailing schedules.

Documentation accuracy remains a persistent challenge. European importers have tightened compliance requirements, particularly around EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) documentation. McDan Shipping's customs team provides pre-export documentation reviews to ensure all phytosanitary certificates, certificates of origin, and traceability documentation meet buyer and regulatory requirements before cargo reaches the port.

Consolidation continues to offer significant cost advantages for smaller exporters. McDan Shipping's warehousing facility near Tema Port serves as a consolidation hub where smaller lots from multiple producers are grouped into full container loads, reducing per-tonne shipping costs by up to 25% compared to LCL shipments.

McDan Shipping encourages all cocoa exporters to begin their logistics planning at least six weeks before the anticipated start of their shipment programme. Our dedicated agricultural logistics desk is available to discuss specific requirements, provide quotations, and develop customised shipping schedules.