Start with the product and destination
Record the intended use, materials, dimensions, quantity, packaging and South African delivery postcode. An Alibaba or other supplier link helps explain the product; it does not prove the supplier, stock or compliance.
Check evidence before a large commitment
Ask who manufactures and sells the item, which specifications are agreed, what a sample must demonstrate and what inspection evidence is available. Record unanswered questions. Import Falcon reviews the enquiry with you; supplier checks are scoped to the evidence available.
Compare the complete landed cost
Compare goods, origin charges, freight, insurance, duty and import VAT assumptions, clearance, local delivery and service charges. Keep the currency, exchange-rate date, exclusions and quotation validity visible. A cheap unit price can still produce an expensive delivered product.
Choose air or sea from the packed shipment
Gather carton count, packed dimensions, gross weight, cargo restrictions and the required date. Use CBM for the space occupied and compare volumetric weight where applicable. Ask for current route pricing and schedules rather than relying on a generic transit promise.
Confirm responsibilities and approvals
Write down the Incoterms rule and named place, responsible importer, documents, applicable product requirements and the person who may approve the quotation. Confirm current customs and product requirements with the relevant authority or a competent adviser before purchasing. An enquiry or planning estimate is not an order or a customs ruling.
Bring these details
A useful starting brief.
- Product link and specifications
- Quantity and sample acceptance points
- Packed dimensions and gross weight
- South African delivery postcode and required date
- Supplier evidence, commercial terms and quotation exclusions