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How Much Does a Box of Tilapia Cost?
Buying tilapia by the box sounds easy—until you realize many hidden details are inside that cardboard box. I’ve had many new importers call me, confused about the weight, number of fish, and shipping charges.
- A standard export box of frozen tilapia usually weighs 10 kilograms (22 pounds) and holds 10 to 50 whole fish, depending on the size. The 80% net weight factory price (CFR China) ranges from $12 to $35 per box, depending on fish size, glazing, certifications, and the season.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: How Many Fish Are in a Box?
When someone says “a box,” I always ask, “How big are the fish?”
Each box weighs 10 kg, but the number of fish changes based on their size:
- If each fish weighs 200g, you’ll get 45–50 fish.
- If each weighs 300–400g, expect 25–30 fish.
- If each fish weighs 800–1000g, you’ll get only 10–12 fish.
Choosing the right fish size helps you avoid waste and shortages.
Typical Tilapia Box Counts
| Fish Size (Average) | Fish per 10kg Box | Main Use |
|---|---|---|
| 200 – 300g | 45 – 50 | School meals, food aid |
| 300 – 500g | 25 – 35 | Retail packs, small diners |
| 500 – 800g | 15 – 20 | Hotel buffets, BBQ shops |
| 800g and above | 10 – 12 | Banquets, whole-fish grill |
Step 2: Price by Fish Size
Smaller fish cost less per box but more per kilogram because of lower yield and more glaze.
- For example, from Fujian Province, China (CFR Abidjan):
- 80% N.W., 300–500g frozen tilapia: $12–13 per box
- 80% N.W., 800g+ frozen tilapia: $14–15 per box
Feed and season also affect prices. I still remember how soybean prices rose in 2023—feed costs went up 15%, and so did box prices.
Step 3: What Affects the Price of a Box?
Other factors that affect cost:
- Freight and fuel – A sudden fuel hike can add $2 per box.
- Glazing – More ice coating adds weight and cost.
- Certifications – Factories with FDA, BRC, or EU approvals charge more.
I once overpaid for boxes with 20% glazing—then found out the customer thawed the fish before weighing. Now, I limit glazing to 10%.
Step 4: How Many Fish Are in a Box (Again)?
Yes, we said this earlier—but it’s essential. Our factory lets you customize the box so all fish are the same size.
Pro Tip: Check Your Weight and Count
Missing fish = lost profits. I always tell clients to weigh some boxes when they arrive. One Kenyan distributor cut shrink loss by 3% in one quarter.
Step 5: Where to Buy Tilapia Boxes
Choose suppliers who are reliable and offer good service.
The main tilapia hubs in China are Guangdong, Guangxi, and Fujian—all with strong cold-chain systems.
- Yanghua Fishery in Fujian works with nearby farms to keep supply steady. Pick a supplier who can grow with you and answer quickly.
We work with a factory using automated lines, which cuts wait times in half. Choose one that fits your business—no more, no less.
Conclusion
A 10kg box of tilapia may look simple, but many things affect the cost—fish size, glaze, season, and more. Work with a good supplier to avoid problems and deliver high-quality fish to your customers.
Happy sourcing!
