FAQ
Q1: What is Chunmee tea?
A: Chunmee tea is a classic Chinese green tea with twisted, eyebrow-like leaves. It offers a clear bright infusion, a mellow taste, and a subtle smoky note. Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. exports premium Chunmee tea worldwide.
Q2: What is Gunpowder tea?
A: Gunpowder tea is a green tea where each leaf is rolled into a small, tight pellet resembling gunpowder. It produces a bold, slightly smoky flavor with a lingering sweet aftertaste.Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. Gunpowder tea is carefully selected for export.
Q3: What are the main differences between Chunmee and Gunpowder tea?
A: Chunmee has long, curly leaves and a lighter, smoother taste; Gunpowder has rolled pellets and a stronger, more intense flavor. Both are green teas but differ in shape, processing, and liquor profile.
Q4: What quality control measures does Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. follow?
A: Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd source from certified tea gardens and conduct strict sensory and tests (moisture, ash, heavy metals, pesticides).Our teas comply with EU and international food safety standards.
Q5: Do you provide samples before bulk orders?
A: Yes, Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. offer free or low-cost samples (air freight collect) for quality evaluation. Samples are typically 50-100g per tea type.
Q6: What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
A: MOQ is usually one full container (about 10-14metric tons for 20'container;20-26metric tons for 40'container), but Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. can negotiate smaller trial orders (e.g., 5–6 tons) depending on the tea grade and destination.
Q7: How long is the shelf life of Chunmee and Gunpowder tea?
A: Properly stored in dry, cool, odor-free conditions, both teas maintain optimal freshness for 5 years. Vacuum-packed or nitrogen-flushed packaging can extend shelf life to 8 years.
Q8: What packaging options are available for export?
A: Standard packaging includes multi-wall kraft paper bags with inner aluminum foil and plastic lining (25kg or 30kg net). Custom consumer packs (tins, pillow bags, cartons) are also available upon request.
Q9: What is the typical lead time and shipping method?
A: Lead time is 15–25 days after order confirmation. Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. ship by sea (FOB Ningbo or Shanghai) or air freight for urgent small orders. We also assist with LCL and container consolidation.
Q10: Which countries do you mainly export to?
A:Our primary markets encompass North Africa (Morocco, Libya,Algeria, Tunisia), West Africa (Mali, Mauritania, Senegal, Benin, Ghana, Niger, Nigeria), the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE), Europe (France, Italy, Spain), and Central Asia (Uzbekistan, Tajikistan). We warmly welcome new partners from all corners of the globe.
Q11: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We accept T/T (telegraphic transfer), L/C (letter of credit, at sight), and D/P (documents against payment). Flexible payment terms can be discussed for long term cooperation.
Q12: What container sizes do you use for sea shipment? How much tea can be loaded per container?
A: We typically use 20' GP and 40' GP containers. A 20' container can hold about 10-14 metric tons of tea, depending on the tea grade and packaging.
Q13: How long does it take from booking to shipment?
A: After order confirmation, the standard lead time is 15–25 days. This may vary slightly based on order volume and vessel schedule.
Q14: When is the bill of lading (B/L) provided? What should I check on the B/L?
A: The B/L is issued after the goods are shipped and customs clearance is completed. Please verify all details (shipper, consignee, product description, gross weight, carton count, etc.). The original B/L can be couriered to you, or a telex release can be arranged upon request.
Q15: What export documents are required for tea?
A: Full documentation includes commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin (C/O), phytosanitary certificate, fumigation certificate (if required), customs declaration, export license (if applicable), and ocean B/L. For certain markets, we can also assist with Form A (GSP certificate).
Q16: What food safety standards must be met for exporting tea to the EU or USA?
A: Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. tea is sourced from customs registered tea gardens and tested according to the importing country's standards. We strictly comply with MRLs for pesticides and other food safety requirements of the EU, USA, and other target markets.Each shipment is accompanied by a certificate of analysis (COA) and conformity declaration.
Q17: Do you provide Certificate of Origin (C/O) and Phytosanitary Certificate?
A: Yes, Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. can issue both. The C/O can be obtained from the Chamber of Commerce or Customs, and the Phytosanitary Certificate is issued by Chinese Customs upon request based on the importing country's regulations.
Q18: Can I place a small trial order before committing to large volumes?
A: Absolutely. We understand the need for trial orders. While a full 20' container (10–14 tons) is our standard MOQ, we can accept smaller trial orders of around 5–6 tons for certain tea grades.
Q19: Do you offer custom packaging (OEM / private label)?
A: Yes. Besides standard 25kg/30kg export bags ,Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. can customize small consumer packs such as 25g, 100g, 200g, 500g, 1kg, 5kg in tin cans, cartons, pillow bags, etc. OEM and private label are welcome.
Q20: Are there any export quotas or import duties for Chinese tea in destination countries?
A: Most major markets (Morocco, EU, Middle East, etc.) do not impose quotas on Chinese tea. However, import dutiesand VAT vary by country. Zhejiang Chunli Tea Co., Ltd. can provide C/O or Form A to help you benefit from preferential tariff rates where applicable. For specific duty rates, please consult your local customs or freight forwarder.