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Freight Forwarding & Incoterms: Key Terms Explained in Detail

Discover the essential freight forwarding terms and Incoterms that define responsibilities, risks, and cost-sharing in global trade. This glossary provides clear, practical explanations to help you navigate documentation and operational decisions with confidence.

Quarantine Release Certificate

Last updated: February 2, 2026
Q

A Quarantine Release Certificate is an official document issued by the relevant authority after imported goods successfully pass health, agricultural, or biosecurity inspections. It confirms that the goods are free from pests, diseases, or contamination risks. This certificate signals that the cargo meets required safety standards. It allows the goods to move forward in the clearance process.

The inspection behind this certificate may involve physical checks, sampling, laboratory testing, or document verification. Goods such as food products, plants, seeds, animals, and biological materials are commonly subject to quarantine inspection. Once authorities are satisfied, the release certificate is issued. Without it, the goods cannot be legally released.

This certificate plays a critical role in preventing the spread of diseases and protecting local agriculture and public health. It ensures that only compliant goods enter the market. If goods fail inspection, they may require treatment, re-export, or destruction. The release certificate confirms that none of these actions are required.

Overall, the Quarantine Release Certificate acts as the final approval for sensitive goods after inspection. It supports safe international trade while maintaining strict biosecurity controls. It also helps avoid clearance delays. And it ensures compliance with national and international health regulations.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Quarantine Release Certificate

Clear answers to the most common questions people have when learning about Quarantine Release Certificate.

Agricultural products, food items, plants, animals, seeds, and biological materials commonly require quarantine inspection and release.

No. If quarantine inspection is mandatory, goods cannot be released until the certificate is issued by the authority.

The goods may be treated, returned to the origin, or destroyed, depending on the risk level and local regulations.