Guide

What to check when supplier samples arrive.

Do the simple records first. They prevent confusion later when several samples, suppliers, and revisions start to overlap.

Short answer

When supplier samples arrive in China, record the source, tracking number, package condition, sample ID, quantity, labels, size, weight, visible condition, missing parts, accessories, and supplier questions. Do this before comparing samples or forwarding them overseas.

Arrival checklist

Source

Supplier name, link, sender, tracking number, and expected item.

Package

Outer package, damage, label, quantity, and arrival date.

Sample

Product photos, size, weight, model, color, accessories, and visible issues.

Record these fields

SourceSupplier, link, sender
TrackingCarrier, number, arrival date
IdentitySample ID, model, version
ConditionPackage, parts, visible issues

Why arrival records matter

Supplier samples often arrive in different packages, at different times, with different labels. Without a simple arrival record, later comparison becomes unclear: which sample came from which supplier, which version was revised, and which issue needs a supplier answer.

Questions to ask suppliers

  • Is this the final material, color, and finish?
  • Are accessories, labels, and packaging final or temporary?
  • Which parts can be revised before bulk order?
  • What is the sample cost, tooling cost, and production lead time?
  • Should this sample be compared, revised, forwarded, or stopped?

What this does not prove

Arrival records do not prove production consistency, compliance, durability, or future bulk quality. They help you see and organize the sample-stage facts before deciding the next step.

China Sample Desk can help

We receive supplier samples in China, create sample IDs, record visible condition, prepare photo notes, and organize next-step questions for the buyer.

Record Supplier Samples