Part 2 - The scheme manuals

The seven manuals which cover the trading and supply chain are:

1. Bulk storage and handling

The best practice on storage of combinable crops and animal feed materials from farm onward.
View Storage Manual pdf

In order to identify stored goods that have been produced under a recognised assured grower scheme, stickers can be supplied by the Certification Body, for affixing to the documentation produced by the store to accompany consignments delivered out of the GTAS Assured storage facility. An example of the sticker can be downloaded here.

GTAS Certified Storekeepers who wish to apply for approval to store any non-feed materials (biomass) in their storage facilities must complete a Risk Assessment form for approval by the Gafta sub-committee. Completed forms must be returned to Gafta and approval confirmed before storage operations take place. Approvals are commodity and origin specific. There is no limit to the number of applications that may be submitted. Confirmation of approval must be shown to the scheme certifiers when an audit takes place.

2. Transport - by road

The Code of Practice for the transport of goods by road from farm to end-user.
View Transport Manual pdf

3. Analysis and testing

Where GAFTA contracts apply, the quality of goods must be ascertained by using analysts that are registered under the Gafta Analysts scheme. This manual is intended for those facilities that test the quality and condition of goods for all other purposes; with the intention of establishing uniform standards and best practice for analysis throughout the supply chain. It provides a best practice code for operators of intake laboratory/testing facilities as used at stores, elevators, silos etc. Operators of facilities with only a few items of equipment can be certified as "small labs" and undergo a simplified audit process.
View Analysis and Testing Manual pdf

4. Supervision, sampling and weighing

Where GAFTA contracts apply, the sampling, weighing and certification of goods must be undertaken by superintendent companies registered under the Gafta Superintendents Scheme. A code of practice for Superintendents and Surveying companies is provided for all other types of supervision operations.
View Inspection Manual pdf

5. Brokerage

A Code of good practice for Brokers operating in the trade.
View Brokerage Manual pdf

6. Trading and merchanting

This code of best practice comprises a set of minimum standards for companies and individuals operating as Traders or Merchants who trade and handle goods (including exports and imports). Sections cover transport by sea, waterway and rail. Reference is provided on the process of contract negotiation. Guidance on recall/withdrawal of goods is available plus information regarding the Gafta Arbitration and Dispute Resolution Services.
View Trading Manual pdf

7. Fumigation and pest control

Detailed guidance on pest control techniques including a new code of best practice for fumigators operating in-ship, in store and silo, produced in collaboration with the International Maritime Fumigation Organisation, is provided. The code also covers spray treatment of insecticides.
View Fumigation Manual pdf