What's the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
MOQ varies by product type, supplier, and origin. For China, MOQs are typically lower, sometimes as few as 50–100 units for standard products. For Japan, MOQs tend to be higher, often starting at 200–500 units, reflecting the higher production costs. We always clarify MOQ before you commit, and we can sometimes negotiate lower minimums for new client trial orders.
How long does the full sourcing process take?
From brief to delivery, a typical China order takes 6–10 weeks: 1–2 weeks for supplier identification and vetting, 1 week for sampling, 1–4 weeks for production, and 3–5 weeks for sea freight and customs clearance. Air freight cuts the transit to 4–7 days but increases shipping cost significantly. Japan orders typically add 1–2 weeks to the production phase. We give you a specific timeline estimate after reviewing your brief.
How do you handle quality control?
We conduct quality checks at two stages: during sampling (before bulk production is approved) and pre-shipment (after production, before the goods leave the factory). Our inspections cover dimensions, materials, appearance, function, and packaging against your agreed specification. If a batch fails QC, we either reject it and arrange re-production, or we report the defects and let you decide how to proceed. You receive a written QC report with photos.
What import duties apply when importing to UAE?
The UAE charges a standard 5% customs duty on most imported goods, calculated on the CIF value (cost + insurance + freight). Some product categories, particularly food, medicine, and alcohol, have different rates or require specific permits. We calculate the estimated duty as part of your landed cost before you approve the order, so there are no surprises at clearance.
Can you source products that require UAE or GCC compliance certification?
Yes. Many product categories sold in the UAE require ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardisation) certification or GCC conformity marks. We identify certification requirements upfront during the brief stage, work with suppliers who already hold relevant certifications where possible, and coordinate third-party testing and certification for products that require it. This timeline is factored into the project plan.
Do you handle both air freight and sea freight?
Yes. Air freight is faster (4–9 days depending on origin) but significantly more expensive per kg, typically suited for high-value goods, urgent restocks, or smaller shipments where speed outweighs cost. Sea freight (LCL for partial containers, FCL for full containers) is cost-effective for bulk orders. We present both options with a cost comparison and recommend based on your timeline and cargo.
Can you deliver to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Egypt, not just UAE?
Yes. We regularly deliver to Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam), Kuwait, and Egypt. Each market has its own customs requirements and clearance procedures, which we handle. Saudi Arabia shipments typically require a Saudi Certificate of Conformity (SASO) for regulated product categories, we flag this during the brief.
What happens if goods arrive damaged?
All shipments we manage are insured for the declared CIF value. If goods arrive with transit damage, we file the insurance claim on your behalf and coordinate replacement or compensation. For factory defects that passed our QC checks, we work with the supplier to arrange replacement, most of our vetted suppliers offer a limited replacement guarantee for manufacturing defects discovered within 30 days of delivery.
Kuwait, Kuwait City
Egypt, Cairo, Alexandria
