Use this checklist before asking a forwarder or supplier for shipping cost, especially when the product is bulky, packed in cartons, or shipped from China.
Before you ask for a quote
A freight quote is only as good as the data behind it. If you send incomplete package details, the estimate may change later when the forwarder sees the real carton size or gross weight.
This checklist helps you collect the minimum useful information before comparing shipping options.
Package data checklist
- Product name and product category.
- Order quantity or sample quantity.
- Units per carton.
- Outer carton length, width and height.
- Gross weight per carton.
- Total carton count.
- Whether goods are palletized.
- Whether there are fragile, liquid, battery, magnetic, oversized, or restricted goods issues.
- Pickup city, destination country and postal code.
- Preferred Incoterm, such as EXW, FOB, CIF, DAP or DDP.
Weight calculation checklist
- Calculate CBM for carton volume.
- Calculate dimensional weight using the divisor for the service.
- Compare dimensional weight with actual gross weight.
- Estimate chargeable weight.
- Check if the quote rounds each carton, each shipment, or each line item.
- Ask if minimum charge or remote area fee applies.
What to send the forwarder
Please quote shipping for the following goods:
Product: [product name]
Pickup city: [city]
Destination: [country/postal code]
Cartons: [number]
Carton size: [L x W x H cm]
Gross weight per carton: [kg]
Total gross weight: [kg]
Incoterm: [EXW/FOB/etc.]
Service options needed: courier, air freight, sea freight, or comparison.
Red flags in a quote
Watch for quotes that do not state what is included, do not mention chargeable weight, hide pickup or delivery fees, ignore customs clearance, or use a vague weight without showing dimensions. A professional quote should be clear enough that you can compare it with another provider.
Related tools and guides
Use these tools together when checking carton size, shipment weight, sourcing cost, and supplier communication.
FAQ
What should I prepare before requesting a freight quote?
Prepare packed carton dimensions, gross weight, carton count, pickup location, destination, product category and Incoterm.
Why did my freight quote change later?
Common reasons include wrong carton size, missing gross weight, palletization, remote delivery, customs handling, or a different divisor.
Can this checklist help with China sourcing?
Yes. It is written for sourcing and shipping communication, especially when a buyer needs better carton and shipment data from a supplier.
Disclaimer
This article is for planning, sourcing communication, and shipping estimate education. It is not legal, customs, tax, or freight advice. Always confirm final rules and charges with your carrier, freight forwarder, customs broker, or marketplace logistics provider.