If you are buying from China for the first time, the purchase price is only one part of the import plan. A usable logistics plan starts before the supplier finishes production. Confirming the product, responsibilities and delivery details early gives your supplier, warehouse and freight forwarder the same instructions to work from.
1. Confirm the supplier and order scope
Check the legal business name, the person handling your order and the beneficiary details shown on the commercial documents. Independently verify unexpected changes to payment instructions through a previously confirmed contact channel.
Record the agreed model, materials, quantity, finish and included accessories in writing. Samples and inspection requirements should be agreed before production, rather than becoming a discussion when the goods are already packed.
2. Review destination requirements before production
Describe what the product is, what it is made from and how it will be used. Share that information with your destination customs broker or relevant specialist before committing to specifications or packaging.
Do not assume that a product accepted for sale in China is automatically ready for your destination market. The applicable product standards, documents and import conditions need to be checked for your particular goods and destination.
3. Ask for packed dimensions, not just product dimensions
Freight planning uses the shipment as it will actually travel. Ask for the number of cartons, pallets or crates, external dimensions of each package and gross weight. Include photos and note whether packages can be stacked.
Tell the supplier if cargo will pass through a consolidation warehouse. Agree on labels and an order reference so incoming goods can be matched to the correct buyer.
- Cargo description and order reference
- Package count, dimensions and gross weight
- Stackability and handling restrictions
- Photos of goods and proposed packaging
4. Agree on timing and handoffs
Distinguish the production completion date from the date goods are ready for collection. Packing, inspection and paperwork may still need to be completed. Identify who books domestic transport and who pays for loading and warehouse delivery.
When several suppliers are involved, ask each for a realistic ready date. Decide whether to wait for all orders or split the shipment; either choice can affect storage, handling and transport costs.
5. Review the complete quotation scope
Request a written breakdown identifying included services and exclusions. Origin pickup, warehouse handling, international freight, destination charges and final delivery are different stages; a low freight-only rate does not describe the total journey.
Before confirming a booking, reconcile the quotation against the final packing list, pickup address and delivery conditions. Send TengYoda your supplier city, product details and destination to start an origin-side review.
