1688 Sample Order Checklist: Confirm Specifications Before Buying
A useful 1688 sample order starts with a written specification, not just a product link. Record the exact variant, quantity, measurements, included accessories and packaging before asking an agent to purchase. This gives the supplier, purchasing team and warehouse the same reference when the parcel arrives.
This 1688 sample order checklist is for buyers testing a product before a larger purchase. It focuses on specification control. For the broader service and cost structure, see the China sourcing and international shipping cost guide.
1. Define exactly which sample you want
A listing may contain several sizes, materials, finishes or pack quantities. Save the product URL and a screenshot of the selected option, then write the option name in text. Treat the listing photograph as a reference, not a complete specification.
- Variant: colour, size, model and material stated by the seller.
- Quantity: pieces per variant and whether the listed unit is one piece, one pair or one set.
- Dimensions: which points to measure and which units to use.
- Contents: accessories, inserts, labels and retail packaging that must be included.
- Substitution rule: whether a similar item is acceptable if the chosen variant is unavailable.
For example, “one black pouch” is ambiguous. “Two units of the selected black zip pouch, with the same lining and zip pull as the saved listing; no replacement colour without approval” is easier to check.
2. Ask sample questions before payment
Confirm whether a single sample can be supplied, the sample price, China domestic shipping and the estimated dispatch window. A listing’s quantity tier does not by itself confirm that one unit is available. Ask whether the sample is current stock or made specifically for the request.
If you plan to reorder, ask which details can stay consistent in the next batch. A satisfactory sample does not guarantee that a later production batch will match it. Keep the approved sample reference and confirm the production specification separately.
3. Turn preferences into observable checks
Replace “good quality” with an instruction the warehouse can act on. Useful requests include a count of pieces and accessories, front and back photographs, a close-up of the fastening, or a measurement photograph with a ruler in the agreed position.
State which checks need every sample and which apply to a selected unit. Opening sealed retail packaging, testing a function or taking extra measurements may need a separate agreement. Photographs alone cannot establish material composition, authenticity, durability or compliance.
4. Keep product approval separate from shipping approval
First decide whether the sample matches the agreed specification. Then decide whether to retain the retail box, add protection, wait for other purchases or dispatch. Removing original packaging can affect later comparison, presentation and potential return discussions, so specify what must stay.
If a discrepancy appears, request a clear comparison with the saved specification before approving international dispatch. Supplier exchanges or returns depend on the actual order terms and the seller’s response; do not assume they remain available after export.
5. Copy this sample request
Product URL and option screenshot:
Variant / model / colour:
Quantity and selling unit:
Measurements and method:
Required accessories and packaging:
Photos or checks requested:
Substitutions allowed: only after approval / other instruction
If a mismatch is found: hold and contact me
Destination country and postal code:
Target date and whether it is flexible:
For quotation comparison, separate the product price, China domestic freight, purchasing service, agreed inspection, packing and international freight. Ask which items are confirmed and which are estimates. This makes a small trial order easier to compare with a later order.
Frequently asked questions
Can I order one sample from every 1688 seller?
Availability and minimum quantities depend on the seller and the selected product. Confirm the sample arrangement before payment rather than relying on a listing thumbnail or a displayed quantity tier.
Does a sample inspection approve the future bulk order?
No. It documents the received sample within the agreed checks. Keep it as a reference, then agree separately on specifications and inspection scope for any later batch.
Plan the next step
Start with your product details
Share the product links, quantities by variant, requested checks and delivery destination with AllDaigou. Confirm service availability, scope and the quotation before approving purchase, inspection or dispatch.