Why a Cheap China Quote Can Become an Expensive Import

We like good prices. We just do not look at price alone.

A factory can be 5% cheaper and still cost more by the time the goods reach India. ## Packing can erase the saving Large cartons, poor carton utilisation or unnecessary weight can increase freight. A supplier who understands export packing can sometimes be cheaper overall even with a slightly higher unit price. ## Quality inconsistency costs more than the difference Rework, rejection, customer complaints and unsellable stock are expensive. For repeat business, stable quality matters more than winning one negotiation by a few paise. ## Compliance can change the whole transaction If the cheaper supplier cannot provide the documents or certification required for the product, the price comparison was never valid. ## Repeatability matters A good supplier should be able to make the next batch close to the approved batch. If every order becomes a new negotiation about material, colour or specification, the low price is not really low. > [!TIP] > **Action Step**: When comparing two China quotations, send us both. We can help you compare the questions around landed cost, packing and shipment planning. ## Helpful Resources & Official Links - LCL Global Sourcing & Import Services - Contact LCL Global Coordination Team