A freight forwarder cannot quote or receive packed goods properly with only the product name and box quantity. They usually need carton count, carton size, gross weight, units per carton, destination and any special handling notes.
For custom packaging projects, these details should be planned before the goods leave China.
The basic carton details
Prepare these details for each packed carton type:
- Carton length, width and height
- Gross weight per carton
- Net weight if required
- Units per carton
- Total carton count
- SKU or product name
- Carton marks or label position
- Destination country or warehouse route
If the order has several SKUs, separate the carton details by SKU. Mixed cartons should be clearly marked because they can create receiving problems later.
Why carton size matters
Freight cost is affected by both weight and volume. A rigid gift box may be light but bulky. A folding carton may be cheaper to move because it ships flat.
Ask for packed carton dimensions and gross weight after the packing method is confirmed. This helps your forwarder quote the shipment and helps you compare true landed cost, not only the unit price of the box.
Details for Amazon or warehouse routes
If the goods are moving toward an Amazon, 3PL or retail warehouse route, confirm the route rules before final packing. You may need:
| Detail | Who usually provides it |
|---|---|
| SKU or barcode label | Your team, marketplace account or warehouse |
| Carton label | Freight forwarder, warehouse or Amazon shipment plan |
| Units per carton | Packaging team and product owner |
| Carton weight limit | Freight route or receiving warehouse |
| Packing list | Seller, supplier or packing coordinator |
Do not wait until cartons are sealed to decide label placement. Label space should be planned before artwork approval when possible.
What to send before handoff
Before delivery to the forwarder, warehouse or consolidation point, send:
- Final carton count
- Carton dimensions
- Gross weight
- Product quantity
- Packing list notes
- Receiver address and contact
- Required labels or carton marks
- Photos if the route needs proof of packing
Packaging-side paperwork
For many packaging projects, the useful paperwork is simple: carton details, packing list data, delivery notes and label information.
If your product is regulated, dangerous, food-related or battery-related, confirm the extra documents with your freight forwarder or customs broker before packing. Packaging teams can help organize information, but regulated shipping decisions should come from the logistics provider or broker.
Related pages: Amazon FBA packaging prep in China, product packing service in China, how box size affects freight cost.