When exporting used agricultural machinery to the EU, strict phytosanitary measures must be followed to prevent the introduction of pests, diseases, and soil.
In particular, any soil or plant debris adhering to the equipment is considered a risk, so thorough cleaning, inspection, and preparation of documentation prior to export are essential.
When exporting used agricultural machinery (tractors, combine harvesters, etc.) to the EU, a “Phytosanitary Certificate” is required.
A phytosanitary certificate is a document that certifies that the exported goods meet the importing country’s phytosanitary requirements. In Japan, it is issued after the goods undergo an inspection by the Plant Protection Station and are confirmed to meet the required conditions.
Since the import of soil is prohibited in the EU, used agricultural machinery that has been used on farmland or similar areas must be exported only after all soil and plant residues have been removed.
When exporting used agricultural machinery to the EU, the focus tends to be on obtaining a phytosanitary certificate; however, the cleaning process—which precedes this step—is actually extremely important.
Even if you wash only the surface, soil and mud may remain in the following areas:
Caked-on dirt may not be completely removed by high-pressure washing alone. Depending on the condition of the machine, use a scraper or brush to remove it.
The necessary steps vary depending on the type of machinery, storage location, destination country, and shipping schedule.
Generally, the process proceeds as follows.
First, confirm the type and number of agricultural machines to be exported, their current location, destination country, port of destination, and desired export date.
At the same time, determine whether the machines are subject to plant quarantine and what preparations are necessary.
Verify the manufacturer, model, size, weight, condition, and photos of the machinery.
Organizing this information in advance is crucial for determining the mode of transport, whether the machinery can be loaded into a container, and how to proceed with cleaning and inspection.
Deliver the used agricultural machinery to be exported to the yard where cleaning, inspection, and container loading will take place.
In some cases, transport from the auction site to the yard may be necessary.
Remove any soil or plant debris adhering to the agricultural machinery.
If necessary, prepare photographs showing the condition of the machinery after cleaning, as well as any information required for the inspection.
Submit the necessary applications for the export inspection and undergo the inspection conducted by the Plant Protection Station or a registered inspection agency.
For used agricultural machinery, the inspection primarily consists of a visual inspection to check for the presence of soil or plant debris.
After passing the export inspection, load the used agricultural machinery into a container.
Next, submit an application with the required information—such as vessel details and container number—to receive the phytosanitary certificate.
The certificate states that the used agricultural machinery in question has been cleaned and is free of soil or other contaminants.
The container is then transported to the port, where export-related procedures and shipment are carried out.
For exports to the EU, the goods must be exported within 14 days of the issuance date of the phytosanitary certificate.
Therefore, rather than starting loading preparations only after obtaining the certificate, it is important to work backward from the scheduled departure date to coordinate the cleaning date, inspection date, container loading date, and delivery date to the port.
If there are changes to the departure schedule, delays in delivery to the port, or incomplete documentation, re-inspections or rescheduling may be required.
It is important to manage the entire process—from plant quarantine to loading—as a single, integrated workflow.
Arai Logistics provides comprehensive support for all aspects ofexporting used agricultural machinery to the EU.
We offer end-to-end services, including plant quarantine compliance, cleaning, obtaining certificates, container loading, and shipment.
Service Locations: Miyagi Container Yard, Saitama Container Yard
“I want to export used agricultural machinery to the EU”
“I’d like to confirm whether a phytosanitary certificate is required”
“I’d like to consult on exporting agricultural machinery I won at an auction”
If your company falls into any of these categories, please feel free to contact us.
Q. Can I request assistance for used agricultural machinery that I did not win at Arai Auction?
A. Yes. You can consult with us regarding used agricultural machinery purchased from other auctions or business partners as well.
Q. Can I request a phytosanitary certificate only?
A. Obtaining a phytosanitary certificate requires cleaning the machinery and preparing for export inspection. Please consult with us regarding the condition of the machinery, its storage location, and scheduled shipment details.
Q. Dousedconstruction and heavy machinery also require a phytosanitary certificate?
A. A phytosanitary certificate is required for the export of used agricultural machinery to the EU. For construction and heavy machinery, individual confirmation is required based on the type of machinery, usage history, presence of soil, and the destination country’s requirements.
Q. What information should I provide when making an inquiry?
A. Please have the following information ready to ensure a smooth confirmation process.