Full Process · TSRA Verified · 4 Steps

How AquiCargo Works – From Registration to Closed Deal

AquiCargo connects U.S. exporters with verified Cuban buyers in four steps. The entire process – from registration through shipment coordination – takes place inside the platform with TSRA/OFAC compliance built in.

Process

How AquiCargo Works

Four steps to connect verified U.S. suppliers with Cuban buyers.

Register

Create your account as a supplier or buyer. KYB verification included for active suppliers.

Submit Your RFQ

Buyers post requests for quotation. Verified suppliers respond within 48 hours.

Negotiate in the Room

Private, encrypted Deal Room to align on terms, exchange documents, and close the deal.

Coordinate Shipment

AquiCargo coordinates – never touches payments or goods. The coordination fee is invoiced at closing via QBO.

The Detailed Process – Step by Step

Registration and KYB Verification

AquiCargo's automated KYB (Know Your Business) process, run via Trulioo, verifies: legal business identity (EIN or equivalent), formation documents, beneficial ownership identity (UBO), active state registration, absence from OFAC SDN/CAPTA lists, applicable certifications (USDA FSIS, FDA, etc.), and verified representative contact. For Cuban buyers: MINCEX import authorization resolution, NIT, REEUP or formation resolution depending on entity type, company identification, and absence from international sanctions lists. No entity operates on the platform without clearing both the State Department Cuba Restricted List and the OFAC SDN list.

Estimated KYB time for suppliers: 1–2 business days (automated results within 24–72 business hours). Buyer KYB: 3–7 days. Companies with complete documentation on file can receive verification within 24 hours.

RFQ – Request for Quotation

Verified Cuban buyers post structured RFQs specifying: product category, quantity (in MT, cases, or units), technical specifications, packaging format, preferred destination port (Mariel, Havana, Cienfuegos), Incoterm preference, and required delivery date. The system automatically generates the corresponding HS code and the required certification checklist (USDA, FDA, COA by category). Verified suppliers with that product in their catalog receive notification and can respond within 48 hours – a maximum of 48 business hours for Active-tier suppliers.

Each RFQ includes the buyer's transaction history and reputation (VPS score – Verified Partner Score), giving suppliers a clear read on buyer seriousness before committing to a quote.

Deal Room – Private Negotiation and Documents

Once the buyer selects a quote, both parties access the Deal Room: a private, AES-256-GCM encrypted workspace where supplier and buyer align on price, volume, Incoterms (FOB, CIF, CFR), and payment terms – merchandise is paid by wire transfer, cash in advance, as TSRA requires. It includes: auto-generated Commercial Invoice, Packing List, proforma for Cuban customs (MINCEX), and an export documentation checklist.

AquiCargo does not act as a payment intermediary or customs broker. It coordinates documentation and process – supplier and buyer contract directly. The Deal Room maintains a complete, traceable history of every communication and document version for future reference and dispute resolution.

Shipment Coordination and Fee

Once the buyer confirms the order (and the supplier has received 100% advance payment), AquiCargo generates the complete documentation package – final proforma invoice, TSRA inventory, AES/EEI declaration, certification checklist, and Incoterms guide – and coordinates: container booking, freight forwarder coordination, AES/EEI filing, and delivery of final documents (Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, USDA/FDA certificates) to the buyer for Cuban customs clearance. AquiCargo never touches payments or goods and does not act as exporter of record or customs broker – it is a 100% coordination model.

Coordination fee: AquiCargo charges a coordination fee at transaction close, invoiced via QuickBooks Online. The fee is a percentage of the FOB transaction value. No fixed costs for suppliers – you only pay when you close. Details in the supplier agreement.