“Who pays the freight?” It depends on the trade terms. Terms like FOB, EXW, and DDP allocate freight, customs clearance, and risk differently; you need to clarify exactly which stage the quoted price covers. Even with the same base price, different terms can lead to significant differences in your final landed cost.
“Can the order be expedited?” It’s negotiable. Expediting means jumping the queue, which may incur extra fees and depends on current production capacity. Clearly communicate the urgency and desired delivery date upfront so the manufacturer can propose a plan based on their actual schedule. Expediting isn’t a magic bullet—the earlier you communicate, the more control you have.
“Can we ship in batches?” Yes. Batch shipping allows some products to arrive and sell sooner, making it ideal for meeting deadlines or managing cash flow. You can agree on specific milestones for each batch and calculate costs accordingly; just ensure the plan is clearly aligned before shipping begins.
After placing an order, clients focus most on two things: when it ships and how freight is calculated. Delivery and logistics directly impact order planning. This article addresses common questions so you can clarify everything upfront and avoid hassles later.
“Is there a pre-shipment inspection?” Yes. We conduct either spot checks or full inspections as agreed before shipment, verifying quantities and packaging; quality inspection reports can be provided with the goods. Clearly defining acceptance standards in the contract ensures there is a basis for inspection upon arrival.
“How do I choose between sea and air freight?” Sea freight is cheaper but takes longer—ideal for routine restocking and large volumes. Air freight is fast but expensive—best for urgent orders and small batches. Courier services suit samples and lightweight orders. Choosing based on urgency, volume, and weight can save significant costs.
“What happens if goods are damaged during transit?” We handle this according to insurance terms and the contract. We take photos before shipment to document the condition, ensuring there is a record. Confirming claims and resolution processes in advance prevents panic if issues arise.
“What is the typical lead time?” After sample approval, standard color box production takes two to three weeks. Gift boxes often take four to six weeks due to manual assembly steps; the exact time depends on craftsmanship and quantity. Production schedules are tight around peak seasons, extending lead times, so it is advisable to place orders early if you have strict deadlines.
