East African Hardwood Supply for U.S. Buyers

Containerized shipments with documented inspection, moisture verification, and export documentation.

Structured for initial container orders and long-term supply programs, backed by established production planning and export coordination.

ZNQA™ Shipment Verification Standard · View standard →
40'
High-Cube Container Program
10–13 MBF
Per Container (dims. dependent)
ZNQA
Shipment Verification Standard
KD+
Kiln-Dried & Moisture Verified
Buyer Assurance

What every shipment includes.

Moisture readings recorded prior to container sealing

Grade and dimensions verified against contracted specification

Photo documentation captured during loading

Shipment documentation issued prior to departure

Trial Container Program

A controlled first step, not a blind commitment.

Initial orders structured as single-container shipments with defined specifications, inspection verification, and full documentation prior to departure.

Production dependent on mill allocation and species availability.

Trial Shipment Structure

  • One 40' HC container minimum
  • Species and grade confirmed before production
  • ZNQA inspection verification at origin
  • Full documentation packet issued prior to departure
  • Claims protocol active upon arrival
Download Trial Container Program Overview
Why ZGS

A program buyers can rely on.

Qualified Supply Network

Sourced from qualified East African sawmill partners with export-capable equipment and verified production processes.

Shipment Verification & Documentation Packet

Every container ships with pre-shipment photos, moisture verification logs, load plans, and a complete ZNQA™ sign-off packet. Documentation structured to provide full shipment visibility and post-delivery reference.

Export Documentation

Lacey Act declarations, KEPHIS phytosanitary certificates, and ISPM-15 compliant packaging on every container.

Containerized Delivery Structure

Dedicated 40' HC containers palletized for forklift access. Consistent volume, consistent specs, predictable delivery.

How It Works

From forest to your dock in six steps.

Sourcing

Vetted sawmill partners. Species verification at origin.

Kiln Drying

KD to target moisture specifications. Multi-point verification.

ZNQA Inspection

Grade, dimension, and moisture checked with photo documentation.

Container Loading

Optimized load plans, ISPM-15 pallets, and desiccant placement.

Export and Transit

Port clearance and full export documentation package.

U.S. Arrival

Import-ready containers routed to buyer-designated destination.

Freight note: Inland transportation and transload are typically arranged by the buyer or their freight partners. Upon request, ZGS can coordinate drayage and transload through its warehouse network.

ZNQA™ Program

ZNQA™ Shipment Verification Standard

Inspection applied at production, pre-loading, and container sealing stages to verify moisture, grading, and export preparation. Conducted separately from mill-side grading.

Documentation issued prior to vessel departure and included with shipment records.

  • Pre-shipment photo verification recorded at the sawmill
  • Moisture content readings recorded prior to container sealing
  • Dimensional and grade verification against contracted specifications
  • Pre-Shipment Sign-Off form signed by supplier prior to loading
  • Container load diagram and desiccant placement record included
  • Non-conforming material rejected prior to loading or documented for buyer review
  • Claims response protocol active within 14 days of container arrival

Multi-Layer Verification

Every ZGS shipment is confirmed through multiple verification checkpoints prior to export.

Production Verification: Grading and kiln drying performed by qualified sawmill partners according to contracted specifications.
Origin Oversight: In-country operational supervision of production runs, documentation preparation, and container loading at origin.
ZNQA Inspection: Documented verification of dimensions, grade, and moisture content prior to container sealing. Results included in buyer packet.
Download ZNQA Program Overview (PDF) →

Every Container Ships With:

  • Photo Verification Checklist
  • Moisture Content Log
  • Grade & Dimension Report
  • Pre-Shipment Sign-Off
  • Container Load Plan
  • Lacey Act Declaration
  • Phytosanitary Certificate
  • Commercial Invoice & Packing List
  • Inspection Verification Record
Program Scope

What ZGS handles. What buyers arrange.

ZGS Handles

  • → Sourcing & supplier qualification
  • → ZNQA inspection & verification
  • → Export documentation
  • → Container program management
  • → Mombasa port coordination
  • → Shipment documentation packet

Buyers Typically Arrange

  • → Transload pickup coordination
  • → Final delivery logistics

ZGS shipments are delivered import-ready and transload-prepared. Inland freight is typically coordinated by the buyer through their preferred freight partners. Upon request, ZGS can coordinate inland drayage and transload through its network of warehouses.

Typical Container Program

What a standard ZGS shipment looks like.

Container Type 40' High-Cube
Volume 10–13 MBF (species dependent)
Moisture Status Kiln-dried & moisture verified
Packaging Palletized export bundles, strapped
QA Protocol ZNQA™ verification included
Trial Lead Time 8–12 weeks from deposit to port arrival
Ongoing Lead Time Per contracted delivery schedule
Min. Order 1 × 40' HC container

First-time buyers typically begin with a single trial container. Download the Trial Container Program overview →

Origin Port Mombasa, Kenya
Primary U.S. Ports Savannah, GA  |  Norfolk, VA
·
Lead Time Trial: 8–12 wks from deposit · Ongoing: per contracted schedule
About ZGS

A structured hardwood procurement and export program.

U.S.-based commercial principal. East Africa-sourced. Built around documented inspection, qualified supplier networks, and a defined export process for serious North American buyers.

Company Overview

Hardwood supply programs structured for documented export.

Zed Global Solutions serves North American importers, distributors, and manufacturers sourcing appearance-grade hardwood from East Africa. ZGS supplies containerized hardwood programs: Teak, Mvule, and Mahogany, with documented inspection, export documentation, and a complete shipment verification packet on every container.

Programs are structured around 40' high-cube containers, ZNQA inspection protocol, and full documentation from origin to U.S. port. Buyers typically arrange inland freight from Savannah or Norfolk. Upon request, ZGS can coordinate inland drayage and transload through its network of warehouses.

ZGS operates as the commercial principal, managing supplier qualification, inspection oversight, and buyer programs, with in-country operational representation in Kenya for production coordination and export logistics.

Buyer Assurance

  • Moisture logged before container sealing
  • Grade and dimensions verified against contracted spec
  • Photo documentation included in shipment packet
  • Claims protocol with defined 14-day review window
ZNQA™ — ZED Network Quality Assurance

Inspection Stages and Documentation Controls

ZNQA is not a marketing claim. It is a structured inspection protocol with defined rejection thresholds, mandatory photo evidence, and documented verification at every stage, independent of mill-side grading. How it works:

01

Pre-Production Approval

Species verification, supplier credentials, and grading standards confirmed before any purchase order is issued.

02

At-Mill Inspection

Dimensional verification, visual grading, and moisture content testing at the sawmill. Photo checklist completed and filed under unique ZNQA reference number.

03

Pre-Loading Sign-Off

Supplier signs Pre-Shipment Sign-Off form confirming all specs are met. This document travels with the container.

04

Container Loading

Load plan executed per ZGS-SOP-003. Wall air gaps maintained. Desiccant bags placed per protocol. ISPM-15 pallets verified.

05

Post-Load Moisture Check

Final moisture readings taken after loading and recorded. Container sealed only when MC readings are within spec.

06

Buyer Document Packet

Complete document packet transmitted to buyer before or upon container arrival. Claims protocol activated within 14 days of receipt if needed.

Company History

Structured around documentation and export control from the outset.

Zed Global Solutions is a U.S.-based hardwood procurement and export program connecting East African sawmill networks with North American importers, distributors, and manufacturers. ZGS operates as the commercial principal, managing supplier qualification, inspection oversight, and buyer programs. Operational representation is maintained in Kenya for in-country sourcing oversight, production coordination, and Mombasa port operations.

The program is structured around container economics, documentation requirements, and the delivery expectations of procurement teams. Verified specs, complete paperwork, and a defined process at every step. ZGS maintains direct communication with both buyers and origin operations throughout production and export.

View Program Documents →

Program Development

ZNQA inspection framework, supplier qualification protocols, and export documentation standards developed before program launch.

Legal & Compliance Infrastructure

Master Services Agreement, Operations & Services Agreement, Supplier Agreements, and full Lacey Act compliance framework established.

Origin Operations Established

Operational representation established in Kenya for in-country sourcing oversight, production coordination, and Mombasa port operations.

Supplier Network

Tiered East African sawmill network qualified. Primary partners operating modern Wood-Mizer equipment, qualified for U.S.-bound container programs.

Container Export Program Active

40' high-cube container program operating for appearance-grade tropical hardwoods to U.S. importers and distributors.

Container Program

Optimized for efficiency and protection.

The ZGS 40' high-cube container program is structured around maximum board foot yield and moisture protection in transit. Every element, from forklift runner placement to desiccant positioning, follows a written standard operating procedure. Each container is verified under the ZNQA inspection protocol prior to sealing, with compliance confirmed against shipment specifications.

Buyers receive a container load diagram with every shipment showing pallet layout, unit count, and configuration. Supporting inspection records are included in the buyer documentation packet. ZGS maintains direct communication throughout the production and export process.

Containers arrive import-ready at Savannah, GA or Norfolk, VA. Buyers typically arrange inland transportation and transload through their preferred freight partners. Upon request, ZGS can coordinate inland drayage and transload through its network of warehouses.

40' HC Container Specs

Container Type 40' High-Cube (HC)
Typical Yield 10–13 MBF (dims. dependent)
Pallet Configuration ISPM-15 treated runners
Wall Air Gap Maintained per SOP-003
Desiccant Placed per load plan
Moisture Wrap Kraft paper only (no plastic)
Origin Port Mombasa, Kenya
Destination Ports Norfolk, VA / Savannah, GA
Direct Contact

Have questions before committing to a program?

Not every question fits an inquiry form. To discuss the sourcing model, species availability, lead times, or program structure before engaging, reach out directly. Substantive inquiries are reviewed by the program team.

info@zedglobalsolutions.com

General inquiries, program questions, or anything outside the inquiry form.

Sourcing & Supply Chain

Questions about species availability, East African supply routes, or mill qualification.

Export & Compliance

Lacey Act documentation, ISPM-15, phytosanitary requirements, or Mombasa port clearance.

Logistics & Program Structure

Container program pricing, lead times, destination ports, or how the deposit model works.

Supply Program

Appearance-grade East African hardwoods.

Kiln-dried, moisture verified, and documented to specification. Species selected for proven performance in furniture, marine, flooring, and millwork applications. Supplied through a qualified East African sawmill network.

Products

Supply Program Species

Teak

Tectona grandis, Primary Species
Common NameTeak
Janka Hardness~1,155 lbf
ColorGolden to dark brown
GrainStraight, coarse texture
Natural OilHigh, excellent stability
Target MC6–9% KD (moisture verified)
Primary Thickness4/4, 6/4, 8/4
Primary Lengths6' – 12' typical
Marine Furniture Decking Millwork

Produced per order and verified prior to shipment. Final specifications confirmed per purchase agreement and production allocation.

Mvule

African Teak, Milicia excelsa
Common NameAfrican Teak / Iroko
Janka Hardness~1,260 lbf
ColorYellow-brown to medium brown
GrainInterlocked, coarse texture
Target MC≤12% (kiln-dried)
Primary Thickness4/4, 6/4, 8/4
Typical Widths4" – 12" (random)
Primary Lengths6' – 16' (random)
Flooring Furniture Marine Millwork

Produced per order and verified prior to shipment. Final specifications confirmed per purchase agreement and production allocation.

Mahogany

Khaya spp., African Mahogany
Common NameAfrican Mahogany
Janka Hardness~1,070 lbf
ColorPale pink to deep reddish-brown
GrainInterlocked, medium to coarse texture
Target MC≤12% (kiln-dried)
Primary Thickness4/4, 6/4, 8/4
Typical Widths4″ – 12″ (random)
Primary Lengths6′ – 16′ (random)
Furniture Cabinetry Millwork Boatbuilding

Produced per order and verified prior to shipment. Final specifications confirmed per purchase agreement and production allocation.

10–13 MBF

Per 40' HC Container

12%

Target Moisture Content

100%

ZNQA Documented

Common Applications

Furniture manufacturing, millwork, joinery, flooring, decking, marine construction, and specialty hardwood components.

Species Flexibility

Additional hardwood species may be sourced through the ZGS supplier network depending on availability and order specifications. Production runs may be expanded per buyer requirements.

Quality Standards

Quality Parameters and Rejection Thresholds

All quality parameters are verified under the ZNQA inspection protocol prior to export. Final specifications confirmed per purchase agreement and production allocation.

Parameter Specification Rejection Threshold Verification Method
Moisture Content ≤12% KD — moisture verified >15% — Rejected Digital MC meter, multi-point
Species Identity As contracted Misidentification — Rejected Visual + KFS documentation
Thickness (4/4) 25.4mm target <23mm or >28mm — Rejected Calipers, 5-unit sample per bundle
Warp / Bow ≤3mm per linear meter >5mm — Rejected Straight edge, visual inspection
Shake / Checks None through-and-through Through shake present — Rejected Visual inspection per piece
Insect/Pest Evidence None Any evidence — Rejected lot Visual + KEPHIS pre-clearance
Surface Quality S2S when contracted Non-conforming — Rejected Visual grade per NHLA reference
ISPM-15 Compliance All wood packaging Non-marked pallets — Rejected Mark verification at loading
Common Questions

Frequently asked by procurement teams.

Every container ships with a full ZNQA documentation packet: photo verification checklist, moisture content log, grade and dimension report, pre-shipment sign-off, container load plan, Lacey Act declaration, phytosanitary certificate, commercial invoice, and inspection verification record.

Yes. ZGS shipments are delivered import-ready at the destination port. Inland freight, drayage, and transload coordination are typically arranged by the buyer through their preferred carriers and freight partners. Upon request, ZGS can coordinate inland drayage and transload through its network of warehouses.

Mixed-species containers may be accommodated depending on order specifications and minimum volume per species. Contact ZGS to discuss requirements. Feasibility and lead time confirmed on inquiry.

The minimum order is one 40' high-cube container. First-time buyers are encouraged to start with a trial container. Trial container timing is typically 8–12 weeks from deposit to port arrival, depending on species, production queue, and vessel schedule. Ongoing container program orders run on contracted delivery schedules, with pricing and delivery windows established under agreement prior to each program period. View the Trial Container Program →

Responsibility Structure

ZGS manages supplier coordination, inspection oversight, export documentation, container loading, and Mombasa port operations. The buyer manages inland freight from the U.S. port of arrival, import clearance, and final delivery coordination. Upon request, ZGS can coordinate inland drayage and transload through its network of warehouses.

Pricing is established under contract, typically structured on a quarterly basis, with defined volumes and specifications. ZGS does not offer spot pricing. Buyers enter a program with confirmed volumes, species, grade, and delivery schedule. Pricing is set against that agreement.

Submit an inquiry to begin the program qualification process.

Reach out directly at info@zedglobalsolutions.com with any inquiry about species, program structure, or logistics. Commercial inquiries reviewed directly by the program team.

Buyer Documentation

Download key program documents.

Everything your procurement team needs to evaluate the ZGS program before submitting an inquiry.

Trial Container Program

First-order terms & process

Download PDF →

ZNQA Quality Program

Inspection protocol & standards

Download PDF →

Export Documentation Packet

Sample shipment document set

Download PDF →

Ready to discuss your container program?

Submit species, volume, destination port, and timeline. ZGS will respond with a complete program proposal.

Prefer direct contact? Email: info@zedglobalsolutions.com

Get In Touch

Start your container program inquiry.

Whether evaluating a trial container or establishing a recurring supply program, submit your requirements here. Commercial inquiries are reviewed directly by the program team.

Direct contact with the program team.

Submit your requirements and the program team will respond with availability, lead time, and pricing. Direct commercial coordination through ZGS.

Headquarters United States (U.S. Commercial Principal)
Email info@zedglobalsolutions.com

General inquiries, program questions, or anything outside the inquiry form.

Origin Port Mombasa, Kenya
U.S. Destination Ports Savannah, GA & Norfolk, VA (primary)

What to include in your inquiry

  • → Species and grade required
  • → Estimated volume (MBF or containers)
  • → Destination port preference
  • → Target delivery window
  • → Surface requirements (rough, S2S, custom)

Production-Committed Model

Purchase agreement and deposit are secured before timber is purchased. Production run is fully allocated prior to mill engagement. No speculative mill stock.

Program Pricing

Pricing established under contract, typically structured on a quarterly basis, with defined volumes and specifications. Spot pricing is not offered.

New buyers may review the Trial Container Program overview before submitting an inquiry.

Request Availability & Pricing
Commercial inquiries reviewed directly by the program team.
Pricing is established under contract, typically structured on a quarterly basis, with defined volumes and specifications.

PROGRAM TEAM REVIEW Your information is kept confidential and never shared with third parties.

Request Received

Your inquiry has been received and will be reviewed by the program team.

Buyer Resources

Program documentation, ready to download.

Three documents. Everything you need.

Document 01

Trial Container Program

Details the trial container process from proposal to delivery: species options, dimensional formats, deposit structure, ZNQA quality protocol, lead time, and compliance documentation included on every shipment.

Best for:

First-time buyers Vendor vetting Risk assessment
Download PDF
Document 02

ZNQA Quality Program

The ZED Network Quality Assurance standard: six inspection stages, hard rejection thresholds, multi-point moisture logging, photo documentation protocol, and the pre-shipment sign-off process.

Best for:

Quality managers Claims prevention Technical review
Download PDF
Document 03

Export Documentation Packet

A sample shipment documentation package: commercial invoice, packing list, moisture log, ZNQA sign-off, Lacey Act declaration, phytosanitary certificate, and bill of lading reference. Shows exactly what travels with every container.

Best for:

Customs teams Compliance review Importer vetting
Download PDF

Ready to move forward?

Submit your program requirements and the team will respond with availability and pricing.