Is it permissible for a wholesale merchant to sell vegetable produce that he purchased before taking possession of it and moving it from its place?

Scholars have differed on how to take possession of movable goods. Some are of the view that possession is not complete except by actual transfer, while others believe that mere clearance (takhliyah) is sufficient. Some, however, stipulate that in addition to clearance, the goods must also be distinguished. Clearance means removing obstacles and enabling possession. Accordingly, if retailers are given clearance to the goods they have purchased and these goods have been distinguished, there is no harm in them selling them, even if they have not yet transported them.