The difference between a smooth first import and a stressful one is rarely luck — it is whether the details were fixed in writing before production started. This is the checklist we wish every new buyer worked through with us at order time.
Before You Confirm the Order
- Approved sample in hand — the physical reference both sides keep.
- Written specification: design, sizes with tolerances, fibre content, pile height, backing, edge finish.
- Prices and trade term: FOB or CIF, currency, validity.
- Payment terms: typically a deposit with balance at shipment — agree the trigger documents.
- Lead time with a dispatch window, not just "10 weeks".
- Labelling requirements: fibre content labels, country of origin, your barcodes if needed.
Before the Goods Ship
- Pre-shipment photos or inspection — agreed as part of the order, not requested as a favour.
- Packing list details: bale/carton count, dimensions, weights — your freight forwarder needs these.
- Documents list confirmed: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and any preference certificates your market uses.
- Insurance arranged — by you under FOB, confirmed with the supplier under CIF.
Before Arrival
- Customs broker briefed with draft documents and the HS code.
- Duty and clearance funds ready — goods wait (and incur charges) for unpaid duty.
- Delivery and storage booked for the arrival week.
A supplier who has exported for decades will walk you through every line of this without being asked. That has been our job in Bhadohi since 1979. Start the checklist with us on your first order.