Sourcing guide · 8 min read
Sampling, MOQ, Packaging, Quality Checks and Shipping Explained
Custom curtain sourcing works best when commercial terms are confirmed around the actual product. Here is how sampling, MOQ, bulk production, packaging, inspection and shipment coordination fit together.
Key takeaway
MOQ, price and bulk lead time are confirmed after reviewing the fabric, construction, quantity and packaging. This avoids giving a generic number that may not apply to the product you actually need.
1. Why a sample comes before bulk production
A sample turns a visual idea into a physical reference. It is used to review the selected material, color, transparency, dimensions, heading, workmanship and any packaging details before the bulk order is approved.
- Typical samples can normally be prepared within one week after materials and details are confirmed
- Special fabrics, printing, embroidery or packaging may require more time
- The customer pays the sample fee first; it can be credited back when the corresponding bulk order proceeds, subject to the confirmed quotation
2. Why MOQ varies
MOQ is affected by the chosen fabric, color, printing or embroidery process, curtain construction, accessories and packaging. Available materials may support a lower starting quantity than a newly developed fabric or custom print.
- Ask for the MOQ of the exact product—not a general factory MOQ
- Share a realistic estimated quantity
- If the target is below MOQ, ask whether an available material or simplified specification is possible
3. What is confirmed before bulk production
Bulk production begins from an agreed specification and commercial confirmation. Lead time depends on order quantity, material availability, construction and packaging, so it is confirmed for the actual order rather than promised as one fixed number.
- Approved product and sample details
- Quantity and size breakdown
- Labels, packaging and carton markings
- Price, payment terms and production timing
- Destination and shipment plan
4. Packaging and logo customization
Standard or customized packaging can be coordinated. Logo customization is commonly applied to brand labels, care labels, inserts, hangtags, bags and outer cartons. The suitable method, print area, quantity and cost are confirmed with the packaging specification.
5. Quality checks and shipment coordination
Quality follow-up should reference the approved specification. Depending on the order, checks may cover dimensions, quantity, appearance, stitching, heading construction, labels, packaging and carton identification. Shipping coordination means arranging the handoff and required transport information after production; the route and terms are agreed for the destination.
Questions to ask in a quotation
Ask which specification the price covers, what the sample confirms, how MOQ is calculated, what packaging is included, when bulk lead time starts and which shipping terms are quoted. Clear answers make supplier offers easier to compare.