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The inspection of fertilizers such as SOP (sulfate of potash), MOP (muriate of potash), DAP (diammonium phosphate), and MAP (monoammonium phosphate) is a crucial quality control process conducted at different stages of the logistics chain. It minimizes major trade risks related to discrepancies in cargo specifications, quantity shortages, or incomplete documentation during the export and import of these fertilizers.

CISS GROUP provides inspection services for SOP, MOP, DAP, and MAP fertilizers to large agribusinesses and international trading companies at intermediate storage warehouses, elevators, factories, and ports worldwide.

These fertilizers are highly hygroscopic and may cake during storage. Unloading them in open areas is not acceptable unless they are packed in plastic bags or containers. Storage warehouses must be completely sealed from precipitation, meltwater, and groundwater. The microclimate within the facility should prevent drafts and moisture accumulation. Loading and unloading operations must be mechanized, and floors should be concrete or asphalt to ensure optimal storage conditions.

Accredited inspectors and laboratory technicians from CISS GROUP conduct SOP, MOP, DAP, and MAP fertilizer inspections at every point in the supply chain.

The main stages of fertilizers (SOP, MOP, DAP and MAP) inspection:

Incoming/outgoing fertilizer inspection

This stage occurs when SOP, MOP, DAP, and MAP fertilizers are delivered to silos or ports or when they are released from factory or silo warehouses. CISS GROUP inspectors assess the suitability of storage premises and verify that the cargo remains dry, uncontaminated, and free from pests, mold, or foreign odors. If fertilizers are transported in bags, inspectors check them for traces of moisture damage and, if required, open selected bags for sampling and further quality verification.

Cleanliness inspection of containers and vessel holds before loading

A visual inspection of containers and empty holds ensures cleanliness and suitability for SOP, MOP, DAP, and MAP fertilizer transportation. Inspectors examine internal surfaces, assess the integrity of locks, hinges, and other fasteners on container doors, and inspect rubber seals on container doors and hold covers.

Loading supervision and sampling

During loading, inspectors oversee the process, verify gross and net weight through re-weighing, and perform weight checks for bulk cargo using the draft survey method. They oversee fumigation, conduct visual quality assessments, and collect samples in accordance with regulatory sampling procedures. Once loading is complete, containers or holds are sealed, and comprehensive reports are generated with direct client access.

CISS GROUP provides 24/7 loading inspection and sampling services.

Laboratory analysis of SOP, MOP, DAP, and MAP fertilizer quality

Fertilizer quality testing is conducted exclusively in accredited laboratories according to international standards and national methodologies (ISO, CEN, TFI). Key quality parameters include:

• Mass fraction of nutrients
• Mass fraction of impurities
• Degree of polymerization
• pH level in a solution of a specific concentration
• Granulometric composition
• Bulk density
• Friability

Photo and video documentation

Each inspection stage is documented with photos and videos, including timestamps. Upon completion, CISS GROUP provides a comprehensive photo report covering all aspects of the inspection.

Certificates and documentation

Following SOP, MOP, DAP, and MAP fertilizer inspection, a final certificate or detailed report is issued. Clients can verify document authenticity using a unique QR code linked to the CISS GROUP website, where digital certificates are securely stored. These certificates feature a digital cryptographic signature, ensuring authenticity and security.

Digitally signed certificates are often required by banks for verifying trade integrity in transactions involving letters of credit.

CISS GROUP ensures transparency, reliability, and compliance in every SOP, MOP, DAP, and MAP fertilizer inspection, safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders in the global supply chain.

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