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Sorghum inspection is a critical quality control process conducted at various stages of the logistics chain. This process minimizes significant trade risks associated with the possibility of cargo being delivered or received that does not conform to agreed specifications, is not supplied in the correct quantity, or lacks the necessary accompanying documents for sorghum export/import operations.

CISS GROUP offers comprehensive sorghum inspection services to large agribusinesses and international trading companies in intermediate storage warehouses, elevators, factories, and ports worldwide.

 

The distinctiveness of sorghum inspection arises from the crop's bushy growth. Consequently, sorghum grain can have a moisture content ranging from 13-15% on the main stem when ripe, while on the branches, it may reach 25-35%. This high moisture content can lead to mold development within just one to two days, resulting in potential losses in both sowing and fodder qualities. Traders typically require that grain moisture content does not exceed 14%. According to standard conditions, harvested sorghum should be in a healthy, non-heating (ventilated) state, exhibit a normal color characteristic of healthy grain, and be free of malt, mold, and foreign odors.

GAFTA-accredited inspectors and laboratory technicians from CISS GROUP conduct sorghum inspections at any point along the supply chain.

Key Stages of Sorghum Inspection:

 

Incoming/Outgoing Sorghum Inspection

This inspection occurs during the delivery of sorghum to silos or ports and when releasing it from factory or silo warehouses. CISS GROUP inspectors visually assess the premises for suitability for cargo storage and check the sorghum to ensure it is dry, not mixed with other cargo, and free from pests, foreign matter, weeds, mold, or foreign odors. For bagged sorghum, inspectors examine the bags for signs of soaking and, if agreed, may open selected bags for sampling and further quality checks.

Cleanliness Acceptance of Containers/Holds Before Loading Sorghum

Inspectors perform a visual assessment of containers and empty holds to verify cleanliness and suitability for sorghum transportation. They meticulously examine internal surfaces and assess the integrity and condition of locks, hinges, and fasteners on container doors, along with rubber seals.

Visual Control of the Loading Process and Sorghum Sampling

During loading, inspectors monitor the loading of sorghum, confirm gross and net weight through re-weighing, and conduct initial, intermediate, and final weight checks using the draft survey method. They oversee the fumigation process, conduct visual assessments of cargo quality, and take samples according to GAFTA sampling rules, forming composite samples. At the end of the loading, inspectors seal the containers or holds and record all data in reports accessible to clients. CISS GROUP provides loading inspection and sampling services 24/7.

Laboratory Analysis of Sorghum Quality

Sorghum quality is assessed exclusively in GAFTA-accredited laboratories, adhering to both local and international standards as agreed upon in the contract. Standard parameters for evaluating sorghum quality include grain condition, color, odor, grain calibration, moisture content, admixture, pest infestation, and the presence of weedy and moldy grains.

Key indicators for assessing technological quality include grain weight, germination ability, and moisture sensitivity.

In addition to basic analyses, laboratory tests are conducted for the presence of pesticides, mycotoxins, GMOs, dioxins, heavy metals, and radioactive elements in sorghum. At the client’s request, express analyses can also be performed for each predetermined lot during the loading process.

Photo and Video Reporting

Inspectors document each stage of the inspection with photos and videos, including timestamps for all recorded events. At the conclusion of the sorghum inspection, CISS GROUP provides a comprehensive photo report detailing all inspection stages.

Certificates

Following the sorghum inspection, final certificates or reports are issued. Clients can verify the authenticity of these documents using a unique QR code that links to the CISS GROUP website, where PDF versions of the certificates are stored. Our certificates are secured with a digital cryptographic signature, ensuring their reliability and security.

Digitally signed certificates are often required by banks to validate the integrity of trade processes when financing operations through letters of credit.

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