Importing alfalfa from Spain: process, Incoterms and logistics

Note: This English content is pending editorial review.

Importing alfalfa from Spain is an economical alternative to domestic sourcing for many buyers and distributors across the EU — provided formats, terms and logistics are clear from the outset. This article covers the typical process.

Formats and volumes

Spanish alfalfa ships in three formats:

• Small bale (25 kg): priced per unit, easy to dose.
• Large bale 80×90 (350 kg): priced per tonne — the lowest cost per kilo.
• Fardo (300 kg): a manageable intermediate of twelve small bales.

For export into the EU, volume-first ordering is the norm: the price is quoted on request based on volume, format and quality.

The key Incoterms

Incoterms define who bears transport, cost and risk. Three matter most for forage imports from Spain:

• EXW (ex works, Lleida): you collect the goods at origin and arrange transport yourself — the most control, but the most to organise.
• FCA (free carrier): we hand the loaded goods to your carrier.
• DAP (delivered at place): we deliver to the agreed destination — the simplest option for you.

Which term pays off depends on whether you have your own freight contacts and how much logistics you want to manage.

Transport by full truck load

The import becomes economical above all through full truck loads (FTL): a fully utilised lorry lowers the cost per tonne substantially versus part loads. It therefore pays to consolidate demand and order in planned, larger volumes.

What to have ready for a quote

To build a firm quote quickly, it helps us to know:

1. Format (small bale, 80×90 or fardo)
2. Target volume (per delivery and per year)
3. Quality requirement (crude protein, RFV — see our articles on these)
4. Delivery location and preferred Incoterm

In brief

• Alfalfa comes in three formats; large bales are priced per tonne.
• EXW, FCA or DAP set how much logistics you take on.
• FTL full loads lower the cost per tonne.

Tell us the volume, format and delivery destination — you get an ex-works (Lleida) or delivered quote. See more on our export page.