BUYER CHECKLIST · Updated 2026 · For importers, wholesalers & project specifiers
A QC inspector verifies slab flatness, thickness, and finish before packing — exactly the process your questions should probe.
Why These 7 Questions Matter
A polished sales reply tells you little. The answers to the questions below reveal whether a supplier controls its production, understands your spec, and stands behind its product. Use them as a scoring sheet — weak or evasive answers on two or more points are a signal to keep looking.
The 7 Questions Every Buyer Should Ask
- What is your MOQ, and does it vary by material or finish?
Expect 200–500 m² for tiles and 50–100 m² for slabs at a factory. Stock items may be lower. Get the MOQ in writing per color and finish. - What is the realistic lead time, and what drives delays?
Standard stock ships in 15–25 days; custom production runs 30–45 days. Ask what happens during Chinese New Year shutdowns and raw-block shortages. - What exactly does your QC process include?
A credible answer lists material selection, thickness/flatness checks, finish grading, color-matching within a tolerance, and pre-loading inspection — ideally with photos or a report. - Can I get a paid sample cut to my actual spec?
A real factory will produce a sample slab or tile in your size and finish. This confirms both capability and color before you risk a full container. - What are your payment terms?
The norm is 30% deposit / 70% before shipment by T/T. Be cautious of any supplier demanding 100% upfront or only irreversible payment. - How do you pack for export, and is it ISPM-15 compliant?
Sea freight stone needs fumigated wooden crates (ISPM-15 stamped), foam/plastic interleaving, and reinforced strapping. Confirm crate specs and who bears damage in transit. - What is your after-sales policy for defects or breakage?
Ask how claims are handled — photo evidence at unloading, replacement on next order, or credit. Reliable suppliers document a clear claim window (often 30 days after arrival).
Quick Scoring Table
| Question | Healthy Answer | Warning Sign |
|---|---|---|
| MOQ | Clear, per-spec, reasonable | Vague or changes by conversation |
| Lead time | 15–45 days with stated drivers | “Whenever” or guarantee without detail |
| QC | Named steps + photos/report | “We check quality” only |
| Samples | Paid real-spec sample offered | Free generic offcut only |
| Payment | 30/70 T/T or LC at sight | 100% upfront, irreversible |
| Packing | ISPM-15 crate, documented | Unclear or no crate spec |
| After-sales | Written claim procedure | No policy or deflected |
Write the answers down and compare suppliers on the same sheet. The one that answers all seven confidently and consistently is usually the one you can trust with a full container.
How STONELINK Answers These Questions
STONELINK welcomes all seven. Our MOQ, lead times (15–45 days depending on stock vs. custom), and in-house QC steps — material selection, thickness and flatness measurement, finish grading, color matching, and loading inspection with photos — are shared openly. We provide paid real-spec samples, standard 30% deposit / 70% before shipment terms, ISPM-15 compliant wooden crates, and a documented after-sales claim process. The goal is a transparent, repeatable supply relationship rather than a one-off transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What MOQ should I expect from a Chinese stone supplier?
For tiles, 200–500 m² per color/finish; for slabs, 50–100 m². Stock programs can be lower. Always confirm the MOQ per specific item you want.
Is 30% deposit / 70% before shipment standard?
Yes, T/T 30/70 is the most common arrangement. Established buyers on large orders may negotiate LC at sight. Be wary of any request for 100% payment upfront.
Why is a paid real-spec sample important?
It confirms the supplier can actually produce your size, finish, and color before you commit a container. A generic free offcut proves little about your real order.
What QC steps should a reliable factory list?
Material selection, thickness/flatness checks, finish grading, color matching within tolerance, and pre-loading inspection — ideally backed by photos or a written report.
How long does stone production usually take?
Stock items ship in about 15–25 days; custom sizes, finishes, or book-matched slabs run 30–45 days. Factor in holiday shutdowns like Chinese New Year.
About the Source
STONELINK is a natural stone manufacturer and exporter based in China, supplying marble, granite, quartzite, and other natural stone products to importers, wholesalers, and project contractors worldwide. For procurement support, samples, or a tailored quotation, contact our team.
This guide is educational. Always verify current export policies, shipping rates, and supplier credentials before placing orders.