Buyer reference

Sourcing storage products and decorative accents in China

Compare storage and home décor suppliers using fit, finish and packing checks for baskets, organisers, trays, vases and decorative objects.

Specify the space that has to fit

Give a storage factory both the maximum external dimensions and the minimum usable internal dimensions. For a shelf basket, include clearance around its handles. For a nesting set, measure the combined shipping height as well as the height of a single unit. Request the packed dimensions before comparing freight estimates: two similar baskets may use very different amounts of carton space.

Choose a finish reference that survives repeat orders

A decorative accents factory may combine ceramic bodies, formed metal or moulded resin with several finishes. For a painted figurine or vase, mark the visible faces and approve a colour reference. Check the base for scratching and the object for rocking. If a vase will hold water, say so in the brief and agree a leak test. If a tray will serve food, identify that use separately from a decorative tray.

Decide how sets will travel

For a mixed set of organisers, label the order of the nested pieces and decide whether each receives a liner. For fragile ornaments, confirm a divider or fitted insert at the highest-risk contact points. Ask the supplier for an opened-carton photograph and the packed weight. This gives the receiving team a reference when checking commercial stock.

Include in your enquiry

  • Clearance, internal dimensions, load and stack or nest requirement
  • Approved material, finish and acceptable variation
  • Set contents, insert design, carton dimensions and weight