Key specifications include calcium oxide (CaO) content, available lime index, slaking rate (for quicklime), and particle size distribution. End-use applications such as water treatment or steelmaking have strict minimum purity thresholds, and importers should require certificates of analysis from each production lot. ASTM C977 covers hydrated lime for masonry, while AWWA B202 applies to quicklime and hydrated lime used in water treatment.

Lime is highly hygroscopic and reacts exothermically with water, so moisture ingress during ocean transit can degrade product quality and create safety hazards. Bulk shipments require weathertight holds, while bagged product must use moisture-resistant packaging. Importers should specify packaging standards in purchase contracts and inspect containers for integrity before loading.