Citrus Export Packaging Standards: Complete Guide for Egyptian Citrus

Proper packaging is the difference between citrus arriving in premium condition and fruit arriving damaged. For Egyptian citrus exports, packaging must protect fruit across thousands of kilometers and weeks of transit while meeting international standards and buyer specifications.

This guide covers complete packaging requirements for Egyptian oranges, mandarins, and lemons—from carton specifications and materials to labeling requirements and retail-ready options. Whether you’re sourcing bulk wholesale or retail-ready packs, understanding these standards helps you specify exactly what you need.

For variety-specific information, see our Complete Egyptian Citrus Export Guide and individual variety pages.

Standard Carton Specifications citrus export packaging

Egyptian citrus exports use standardized carton sizes aligned with international trade practices. The carton weight varies by fruit type to ensure safe stacking and prevent crush damage.

Orange Cartons: 15kg Standard

Both Navel and Valencia oranges ship in 15kg net weight cartons:

The 15kg standard balances handling efficiency with fruit protection. Heavier cartons would increase crush risk on lower layers during pallet stacking and container loading.

Mandarin Cartons: 10kg Standard

Mandarins use smaller 10kg cartons due to their thin, delicate skin: citrus export packaging

The reduced weight prevents pressure damage to mandarins’ thin peel. Extra cushioning materials are common for premium grades.

Lemon Cartons: 15kg or 10kg

Lemons ship in either 15kg or 10kg cartons depending on buyer preference:

Carton Construction and Materials

Quality packaging starts with proper carton construction citrus export packaging. Export cartons must withstand humidity, temperature changes, and mechanical stress throughout the supply chain.

Corrugated Cardboard Requirements

Wall Construction:

• Double-wall (BC flute): Standard for export. Two corrugated layers provide superior strength and cushioning.
• Single-wall: Acceptable for nearby markets (GCC) with shorter transit times.
• Triple-wall: Rarely needed for citrus; more common for heavier products.

Paper Quality:

• Outer liner: Minimum 200gsm kraft paper
• Inner liner: Minimum 150gsm kraft paper
• Fluting medium: Minimum 120gsm semi-chemical or recycled

Moisture Resistance:

• Export cartons require moisture-resistant treatment
• Wax coating or polymer treatment on outer layer
• Essential for surviving cold chain humidity (85-95% RH)
• Untreated cartons collapse under high humidity conditions

Telescopic Design

Export citrus cartons use telescopic construction (separate lid and base):

Advantages:

• Stronger stacking—lid edges bear weight, not fruit
• Better ventilation—gaps between lid and base
• Easier inspection—lid removal for quality checks
• Efficient packing—base fills completely before lid placement

Base Depth: Typically 20-22cm, accommodating 3-4 fruit layers depending on size

Lid Overlap: Minimum 5cm overlap with base for secure fit

Ventilation Requirements

Proper ventilation is critical for maintaining fruit temperature and preventing condensation:

Ventilation Hole Design:

• Circular or oval holes (25-40mm diameter)
• Positioned to align when palletized (enabling airflow through stack)
• No holes directly under fruit resting points
• Bottom holes for mandarins allow drainage if condensation occurs

Internal Packaging and Cushioning

Inside the carton, additional citrus export packaging protects individual fruits and maintains presentation quality.

Layer Cushioning

Tissue Paper:

• Thin tissue between fruit layers
• Prevents friction damage during transit
• Standard for mandarins, optional for oranges
• Food-grade, unbleached paper preferred

Foam Netting:

• Individual foam sleeves around each fruit
• Premium protection for high-value shipments
• Common for large-count mandarins and gift-grade oranges
• Increases packing time and cost

Cardboard Dividers:

• Corrugated inserts separating layers
• Provides structural support within carton
• Standard for oranges, especially larger sizes

Fruit Arrangement

Single-Layer Packing:

• Large fruit (count 36-48 oranges) in single layer
• Maximum visibility for inspection
• Premium positioning but higher citrus export packaging cost per kg

Multi-Layer Packing:

• Standard for most sizes (3-4 layers typical)
• Efficient use of carton volume
• Requires proper cushioning between layers

Tray Packing:

• Molded pulp or plastic trays holding fruit in position
• Prevents movement during transit
• Premium option, adds cost
• Common for retail-ready mandarin packs

Bulk Packaging Options

For processing customers and large-volume buyers, bulk citrus export packaging offers cost efficiency.

Wooden Bins (400kg)

Large wooden bins are standard for juice processing customers:

ISPM-15 Requirement: All wooden citrus export packaging for international export must be heat-treated and marked according to ISPM-15 standards. This prevents pest transmission across borders. PEI Trade uses only certified ISPM-15 wood citrus export packaging.

Bulk Bins for Processing

Advantages:

• Lowest citrus export packaging cost per kg
• Efficient for high-volume operations
• Direct bin-to-processor transfer
• Less citrus export packaging waste

Limitations:

• Not suitable for retail or wholesale distribution
• Requires forklift handling throughout chain
• Higher minimum order quantities
• Appearance standards relaxed (processing grade)

Retail-Ready Packaging

Modern retail increasingly demands pre-packed, shelf-ready citrus that minimizes in-store labor.

Consumer Unit Options

Mesh/Net Bags:

• 500g, 1kg, 1.5kg, 2kg options
• Excellent visibility of fruit
• Good ventilation
• Color-coded by variety (orange, red, yellow)
• Header card or clip for branding/PLU

Flow-Wrap Trays:

• Counted fruit (4, 6, 8 pieces) on molded trays
• Wrapped in printed film
• Brand messaging on film
• Barcode/PLU integrated
• Protects fruit, extends shelf life

Clamshell Punnets:

• Clear plastic containers
• 500g-1kg typical for mandarins
• Maximum fruit visibility
• Stackable for retail display
• Higher cost but premium positioning

Girsac Bags:

• Printed poly bags with handles
• 2kg-3kg family packs
• Common in GCC markets
• Full-color branding possible

Retail-Ready Master Cartons

Consumer packs ship in master cartons designed for retail efficiency:

• Shelf-Ready Cartons (SRP): Perforated fronts for easy shelf display
• Display Pallets: Quarter-pallet displays for promotional positioning
• Standardized Footprint: Cartons designed for efficient retail shelf utilization

Labeling Requirements

Correct labeling ensures smooth customs clearance and retail compliance. Different markets have specific requirements.

Mandatory Export Label Information

All Egyptian citrus export cartons must display:

EU-Specific Requirements

European Union imports require additional label elements:

• Marketing Standard Reference: Compliance statement with EU marketing standards
• GLOBALG.A.P Number: GGN displayed on label for certified product
• Phytosanitary Compliance: Reference to certificate
• Post-Harvest Treatment: If waxed, “Waxed” must appear on label

GCC-Specific Requirements

Gulf Cooperation Council markets require:

• Arabic Text: Product name and origin in Arabic
• Halal Statement: Where applicable for wax treatments
• Batch Traceability: Lot codes for recall capability

Consumer Pack Labeling

Retail-ready consumer packs add:

• PLU/Barcode (EAN-13 or retailer-specific)
• Nutritional information (where required)
• Storage instructions
• Best-before or pack date
• Allergen declarations (if applicable for coatings)

Pallet Configuration

Efficient palletization maximizes container capacity while ensuring carton integrity.

Standard Pallet Specifications

Stacking Configuration

15kg Orange Cartons on EUR Pallet:

• 5 cartons per layer (standard pattern)
• 8-10 layers high
• 40-50 cartons per pallet
• 600-750kg net fruit per pallet

10kg Mandarin Cartons on EUR Pallet:

• 6 cartons per layer
• 8 layers high (lower due to fruit sensitivity)
• 48 cartons per pallet
• 480kg net fruit per pallet

Container Loading

40-foot Reefer Container:

Quality Control at Packaging Stage

Packaging is the final quality checkpoint before export. Rigorous inspection ensures only export-worthy fruit leaves the packhouse.

Pre-Packing Inspection

• Visual inspection for defects, decay, damage
• Size verification (optical sorter calibration check)
• Color assessment (minimum coverage requirements)
• Firmness testing (random samples)
• Brix testing (random samples, recorded by lot)

Packing Line Quality Points

• Entry: Reject obviously defective fruit
• Washing: Verify cleaning effectiveness
• Waxing: Check coating uniformity
• Sorting: Confirm size accuracy
• Grading: Verify class/grade compliance
• Packing: Check count accuracy, arrangement
• Closing: Verify label accuracy, carton integrity

Post-Packing Verification

• Random carton opening for count/weight verification
• Label accuracy check
• Pallet stability assessment
• Pre-cooling verification before cold storage

For temperature management after packing, see our Cold Chain Guide.

Custom Packaging Options

PEI Trade offers customization to meet specific buyer requirements.

Private Label Packaging

• Buyer’s brand on cartons and consumer packs
• Custom artwork and colors
• Minimum order quantities apply
• Lead time for printing (typically 2-3 weeks)

Specification Modifications

• Carton weight variations (e.g., 12kg instead of 15kg)
• Specific cushioning requirements
• Consumer pack configurations
• Labeling language additions

Sustainability Options

• Recyclable citrus export packaging materials
• Reduced plastic options
• FSC-certified cardboard
• Biodegradable consumer packs (limited availability)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do mandarins use 10kg cartons instead of 15kg?

Mandarins have thin, delicate skin that bruises easily under pressure. The smaller 10kg weight reduces pressure on bottom-layer fruit, preventing crush damage during stacking and transport. This is an industry-wide standard for easy-peel citrus.

Can I request custom carton sizes?

Yes, PEI Trade can accommodate custom specifications including non-standard weights (e.g., 12kg cartons) and dimensions. Minimum order quantities apply, and lead time may be required for custom carton production. Discuss your requirements with our sales team.

What is the minimum order for private label packaging?

Private label cartons typically require minimum one container (approximately 1,000 cartons) to justify printing setup costs. Consumer pack private labeling may have higher minimums depending on pack type. Contact our team for specific requirements.

Are your wooden bins ISPM-15 certified?

Yes, all PEI Trade wooden citrus export packaging is ISPM-15 certified with appropriate heat treatment and marking. This is mandatory for international export and ensures compliance with phytosanitary regulations in destination countries.

Do you offer plastic-free packaging options?

We offer reduced-plastic options including paper-based consumer bags and recyclable tray materials. Fully plastic-free options are limited for some pack types, but we’re continuously expanding sustainable citrus export packaging options. Discuss your sustainability requirements with our team.

How are retail-ready packs shipped?

Consumer packs (bags, punnets, flow-wrap) are packed into master cartons for shipping. Master cartons are palletized and shipped in refrigerated containers just like standard cartons. The master carton protects consumer packs during transit.

Specify Your Packaging Requirements

When requesting a quote from PEI Trade, include your packaging specifications to receive accurate pricing and confirm availability.

Helpful details to provide:

• Carton weight preference (15kg, 10kg, other)
• Grade/class requirements
• Consumer pack specifications if applicable
• Private label requirements
• Pallet type (EUR or block)
• Any sustainability preferences

Contact PEI Trade:

Email: sales@peitrade.com
WhatsApp: +201099111918
Office: +201099111918
Website: www.peitrade.com

Request Packaging Specifications

Our team can provide detailed packaging specifications, samples of labeling formats, and guidance on the best packaging options for your market requirements.