Buying and exporting iron ore from China can unlock stable supply, competitive pricing and access to a large network of producers. For importers, traders and steel manufacturers, the right partners are critical to protect margins and manage risk. Wigmore Trading can help.

Why source iron ore from China?

China is one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of iron ore, with a developed ecosystem of mines, processing plants and trading houses. For overseas buyers, this offers clear advantages:

• Access to a range of grades and specifications.

• Competitive pricing for bulk volumes.

The same scale that makes China attractive can also make the market complex. Vetting suppliers, checking quality and navigating documentation are essential before you export iron ore from China.

Key considerations before you export

Product quality and specifications

Iron ore is not a single product. Buyers typically specify Fe content, moisture, impurities (such as silica, alumina, phosphorus and sulphur), and physical form (lump, fines, pellets). Clear technical specifications in your contract, combined with independent inspection, help avoid disputes.

Wigmore Trading works with trusted Chinese iron ore suppliers and inspection agencies to help ensure that the cargo shipped matches the agreed specification.

Compliance and documentation

Exporting iron ore from China requires accurate paperwork, including contracts, commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin and inspection certificates. On the import side, buyers must comply with local customs, quality and environmental regulations.

Pricing, Incoterms and payment

For iron ore, prices are often agreed on a CFR, FOB or CIF basis. The chosen Incoterm defines who is responsible for freight, insurance and risk at each stage. Payment methods may include letters of credit, bank transfers against documents or structured trade finance.

Wigmore Trading helps buyers evaluate landed costs, compare offers from multiple iron ore exporters in China and select commercial terms that match their risk appetite and cash-flow needs.

Logistics and shipping

Iron ore is normally shipped in bulk vessels, but smaller volumes can sometimes be moved in containers. Your choice will depend on quantity, route, port facilities and timing. Proper loading, stowage and moisture control are critical for safety and to prevent cargo damage.

Wigmore Trading coordinates with shipping lines, port operators and surveyors to help ensure that cargo is loaded correctly and that documentation matches what is on board.

Step-by-step: how to buy and export iron ore from China

1. Define your requirements – grade, Fe content, volume, shipment size, delivery schedule and target ports.

2. Pre-qualify suppliers – shortlist reliable Chinese iron ore suppliers with a proven export record and verifiable documents.

3. Compare offers – look at price, quality, Incoterms, payment terms and lead times, not just the headline rate.

4. Sign clear contracts – fix specifications, tolerances, penalties, inspection procedures and dispute mechanisms.

5. Arrange inspection – use independent inspectors for pre-shipment sampling, weight checks and moisture control.

6. Prepare documentation, ship and track – coordinate export and import documents, book freight, arrange insurance and monitor the shipment until final discharge.

Wigmore Trading can support you through each step, from initial supplier search in China to coordinating delivery into ports across Africa, the Middle East and other regions.

How Wigmore Trading adds value

As a specialist in sourcing and moving goods into African and other emerging markets, Wigmore Trading understands both ends of the iron ore supply chain. We combine vetted Chinese iron ore exporters, structured trade solutions, inspection support and end-to-end logistics to turn iron ore sourcing into a repeatable, reliable process.

Is exporting iron ore from China right for you?

If you are a trader, steel producer or bulk commodity buyer looking to secure long-term supply, China offers scale and optionality. The key is having a partner who can translate your technical and commercial requirements into practical deals on the ground.

Contact Wigmore Trading today to discuss your iron ore needs and see how we can help you buy and export iron ore from China with greater confidence.