Iron ore. iron sand

The most critical factor is the Total Iron (Fe) content, typically categorized as High Grade (65%+), Medium Grade (62-65%), or Low Grade (below 62%). For Iron Sand, you must specifically check the Magnetite (Fe3O4) concentration. Additionally, monitor the levels of impurities such as Silica (SiO2), Alumina (Al2O3), Phosphorus (P), and Sulfur (S), as high levels of these elements can significantly increase smelting costs and affect the quality of the final steel.

Moisture content (H2O) should ideally be kept below 8-10%. High moisture not only increases the dead weight during shipping, leading to higher freight costs, but also poses a serious safety risk known as liquefaction. In bulk carriers, liquefied cargo can shift, potentially causing the ship to capsize. Always ensure the supplier provides a Transportable Moisture Limit (TML) certificate.

Iron Ore is the primary raw material for blast furnace steelmaking. Iron Sand, due to its fine grain size and often high Titanium (TiO2) or Vanadium content, is frequently used in Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF), as a heavy aggregate in concrete for radiation shielding, or in the production of specialty alloys and welding rods.

Suppliers must provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) issued by an independent third-party laboratory like SGS, CCIC, or Intertek. For cross-border transactions, ensure the ore complies with the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code. Furthermore, verify that the mining operation holds valid export licenses and environmental permits from the country of origin to avoid legal seizures.

Always mandate a Draft Survey at both the loading and discharge ports to verify the weight. To secure quality, use Letter of Credit (L/C) as the payment method, specifying that payment is only released upon the presentation of a clean inspection report from a reputable agency like SGS. Avoid 100% advance payments for new suppliers.

For large-scale mineral trades, FOB (Free On Board) or CFR (Cost and Freight) are standard. If you are a new buyer, CFR is often safer as the seller manages the complex chartering of bulk vessels. However, ensure the contract clearly defines the demurrage and detention terms to avoid unexpected costs if unloading is delayed at the destination port.

Many countries (e.g., India, Indonesia) frequently adjust export duties or bans on raw minerals to encourage domestic processing. Before signing a long-term contract, consult with a trade expert on Made-in-China.com to verify the current tariff structures and ensure the supplier has a stable quota for export.

Request the supplier's Mining License and Past Performance records (Bill of Lading copies) from previous shipments. Conduct a factory/mine site audit or hire a local agent to verify that the stockpile actually exists. Reliable suppliers often have a Verified status on professional B2B platforms like Made-in-China.com, indicating they have undergone rigorous background checks.