Before you ask a Chinese supplier for a quote: what a complete request includes in detail
Answer
A quote is only as good as the request. Send product specs, quantity and timing, destination and delivery terms, required certificates for your market, packaging and labeling, and sample terms in one message. Minimum order quantity and lead time vary by supplier, stock, customization and certification, so ask; do not rely on an "industry average".
- Applies to
- Small business buyers requesting quotes from Chinese manufacturers or trading companies.
Dear friend,
Welcome! This letter sets out what you need to know, plainly and in order.
Request checklist
| Item | Include | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Product | Material, size, model, color, function; photo or drawing | Vague specs give non-comparable quotes |
| Quantity and timing | First order quantity, expected repeat volume, target ship date | Affects price and whether MOQ applies |
| Destination | Country, city, and terms (EXW, FOB, DDP) | Decides who pays freight and duties |
| Compliance | Certificates your market requires (for the US: FCC for radio devices, CPC for children's products) | Missing certification can block import |
| Packaging and labels | Retail box, barcode, language, country-of-origin marking | Changes cost and lead time |
| Samples | Sample price, who pays shipping, whether it is refunded on order | Avoid disputes later |
| Payment | Deposit, balance, the company name on the bank account | Must match the contract party |
US product rules: FCC equipment authorization,
CPSC Children's Product Certificate.
After the quote arrives
- Check the supplier's registration (see the supplier-check page).
- Compare quotes on the same terms; do not compare FOB with DDP.
- Confirm in writing what the price excludes.
What we do not publish
We do not list "typical" MOQ or lead times by category. Without a traceable source for a specific product and order, such numbers mislead.
Sources for this letter
Wishing you good business,
The mouwise team
Checked 2026-10-25
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