Start with rooms, not factories
A usable sourcing brief lists rooms, dimensions, style references, budget range, target country, deadline, and non-negotiable materials. Factory hunting before this brief usually creates mismatched quotes.
Compare the quote basis
Ask whether the price is EXW, FOB, CIF, or DDP. A low product quote can become expensive once packaging, inland trucking, customs, local delivery, and replacement risk are included.
Check the physical details
Request dimensions, materials, color codes, finish samples, product photos, package size, CBM, production lead time, and warranty terms before paying a large deposit.
Protect the shipment
Use clear item labels, packing photos, inspection records, and a loading list. Furniture, stone, glass, and custom joinery should not be handled like simple carton goods.
Before you pay a deposit
- Confirm the exact product and material specification.
- Confirm quote basis and what is not included.
- Confirm sample, production photo, inspection, and packing photo checkpoints.
- Confirm shipping route and who owns each handoff risk.