How Pre-Advice Works in Bonded Warehousing: What Buyers Must Know

In bonded logistics, pre-advice is one of the most misunderstood yet critical steps in the post-arrival process. At Sarsorti Spirits, we deal with bonded warehouses across Europe, and we guide our buyers through every phase including what happens after the goods arrive.

This article explains what pre-advice really is, how it fits into the bonded workflow, and what you as a buyer need to do once it’s received.

What Is a Pre-Advice?

Pre-advice is the formal notification issued by the bonded warehouse after goods have arrived, been unloaded, and inspected. It is sent directly by the warehouse to both the buyer and the seller (with both in copy).

The pre-advice confirms:

• That the goods have physically arrived at the warehouse

• That the warehouse has completed a visual inspection

• Any missing cartons or visible damage

• The warehouse reference number linked to the goods

It is not the same as the arrival notice  those happen at time of arrival. The pre-advice is issued after unloading and checking, and it serves as the signal to move forward with the next step: payment.

Why Pre-Advice Triggers Payment

Upon receiving the pre-advice:

• The buyer must settle the balance payment, either by:

  • Escrow release

  • Bank transfer (if agreed)

• Only after receipt of payment will the warehouse issue the release notice, also to both parties

Without payment, no release is possible  even if goods are present and in good condition.

Can the Buyer Collect the Goods?

No, buyers cannot always collect directly from bonded warehouses. In certain case instead:

• The buyer must coordinate shipment via the warehouse’s logistics department

• Once payment is confirmed and the release notice is issued, the warehouse will arrange outbound delivery or hand the goods over to the buyer’s nominated forwarder (as per the agreed Incoterm)

Summary of the Bonded Flow

1. Arrival Notice – Issued by warehouse; confirms arrival to seller 

2. Pre-Advice – Issued after unloading & visual check; sent to buyer & seller

3. Balance Payment – Triggered by pre-advice; paid via escrow or bank

4. Release Notice – Issued by the warehouse upon payment; authorises shipment via warehouse

5. Delivery – Arranged with the warehouse’s logistics department only

Why Sarsorti Manages the Process for You

At Sarsorti Spirits, we handle bonded orders from A to Z:

• We notify buyers when pre-advice is expected

• We ensure no delays between pre-advice and payment

• We liaise with the warehouse to guarantee timely release

• We protect buyer in every step

No miscommunication. No skipped steps. No excuses.

Final Thoughts

If you’re buying goods stored under bond, understanding what pre-advice is and what it triggers is essential. It’s not a release. It’s not a confirmation of payment. It’s the checkpoint between arrival and ownership.

For questions or support with bonded logistics and escrow payments, contact us at team@sarsorti.com