Established in 2010, a Malaysian chemical trading company specializes in supplying raw materials to polyester resin and antifreeze manufacturers in Southeast Asia, purchasing over 5,000 tons of various chemicals annually. In 2023, due to capacity constraints at its existing supplier, the company urgently needed to find a new, stable source of ethylene glycol to ensure production continuity for its downstream factories.
Partnership Opportunity
In June 2023, Company M established contact with us (a chemical exporter) through an industry exhibition. During the discussion, the client clearly identified three core requirements:
1. The ethylene glycol purity must be at least 99.9%, meeting international chemical standards (USP grade);
2. Packaging must be in closed iron drums, each containing 200L, certified for UN3082 dangerous goods packaging (ethylene glycol is a Class 3 flammable liquid);
3. Ocean shipping time from a Chinese port to Port Klang, Malaysia, must be within 15-20 days, with complete and compliant customs clearance documentation.
We provided a detailed proposal tailored to our needs: the drums would be constructed from 1.2mm thick cold-rolled steel with a rust-proof interior treatment. The drum openings would be fitted with chemical-resistant nitrile rubber seals to prevent leakage during transport. We also promised to provide a full set of customs clearance documents (including MSDS, Certificate of Origin, Dangerous Goods Packaging Specification Sheet, Packing List, etc.), and ensure timely ocean shipping through a long-term freight forwarding company.
Order Execution and Shipping Details
In July 2023, Company M placed its first purchase order for 16 tons of ethylene glycol (80 drums, fitting into one 20-foot container). The specific implementation process is as follows:
1. Packaging Inspection: Each drum is marked with the "UN3082 3 PG II" dangerous goods symbol, net content, and ingredient information. Third-party testing agencies have verified that the drum's compressive strength and sealing meet international shipping standards.
2. Loading Specifications: Leak-proof pallets are placed inside the container, and the drums are stacked and secured in a "品" shape to prevent shaking and collisions during transportation.
3. Logistics Tracking: The cargo departs from Shanghai Port, and the freight forwarding system provides real-time status updates throughout the entire journey, arriving safely at Port Klang, Malaysia, 18 days later.
4. Customs Clearance Support: A full set of documents will be provided to the customer three days in advance to assist in completing the dangerous goods import registration with Malaysian Customs, ensuring no delays during the customs clearance process.
Customer Feedback
In August 2023, after receiving the goods, Company M provided the following feedback:
• The drum packaging was 100% intact, with no deformation or leakage, meeting the storage and usage requirements of the downstream factory.
• The ethylene glycol purity reached 99.95%, with all indicators meeting production standards.
• The overall delivery cycle was within the expected range, ensuring the factory's continuous production schedule.
In September 2023, Company M placed an additional order for 32 tons and reached a regular quarterly procurement agreement.
This case, through compliant drum packaging and rigorous logistics control, met the safety and timeliness requirements for chemical product exports, providing a practical reference for chemical supply chain collaboration in the Southeast Asian market.
