China fulfillment is priced line by line, not as one number. A quote should separate inbound handling, storage, pick and pack, packaging and outbound freight. If a provider gives you a single per-order rate with no breakdown, you cannot compare it with another quote or see where the cost is coming from.
The five lines in a China fulfillment quote
| Line | What it covers | What moves the number |
|---|---|---|
| Inbound handling | Receiving cartons or pallets, counting, checking labels, putting stock away. | Pallet versus carton, SKU count, missing labels, appointment scheduling. |
| Storage | Space held per day, usually per pallet, cubic metre or bin. | Volume, days in stock, seasonal peaks, climate-controlled space. |
| Pick and pack | Labour to pick each order and pack it for dispatch. | Units per order, inserts, gift notes, fragile handling, custom pack routines. |
| Packaging | Boxes, mailers, filler and branded print. | Size, print run, material, sustainability requirements. |
| Outbound freight | Carrier, route, service level and customs terms. | Weight, destination, DDP versus DAP, speed, peak season. |
Why a single per-order price hides the real cost
A low pick-and-pack rate means little if storage is charged per pallet per day and your stock sits for six weeks. It means even less if inbound handling, returns or outbound freight sit outside the rate.
Three patterns usually explain a quote that looks cheaper at first glance:
- More days in storage. Slow-moving SKUs cost more than fast ones even when the pick fee is the same.
- More SKUs. Every extra SKU adds receiving, counting and bin space. A broad catalogue is not free.
- Freight excluded. Outbound is often the largest line for cross-border orders. Confirm who buys the label and who pays the duty.
How to compare two quotes
Give both providers the same data and compare the same lines. A fair comparison covers:
- The same SKU list, dimensions, weights and packaging.
- The same monthly order volume and units per order.
- The same destination mix and service level.
- The same expected storage days, including peak stock.
- Returns, onboarding, labelling, disposal and minimum monthly fees.
Ask for a sample invoice for a normal month and a peak month. If the provider cannot produce both, the quote is incomplete.
Where brands overspend
Most overspend comes from the operation, not the rate card. Oversized packaging adds volumetric freight on every order. Air freight for slow movers turns a small inventory decision into a recurring cost. Splitting stock across two warehouses can improve delivery speed, but it also doubles inbound handling and storage before the volume justifies it.
Start with one warehouse, one packaging spec and a clear reorder point. Add complexity when the order data asks for it, not before.
What to send for an accurate quote
- SKU list with dimensions, weight and monthly units.
- Monthly order count and average units per order.
- Destination countries and the share of orders going to each.
- Expected storage days and peak stock.
- Packaging requirements and any inserts or branded print.
- Returns volume and how returns should be handled.
With those six inputs, a provider can quote the full route instead of guessing. If you want to see how HQ structures the operating side, start with warehousing and order fulfillment, or send us an order profile.
FAQ
Is China fulfillment cheaper than domestic fulfillment?
Not always. China can be cheaper on sourcing, consolidation and storage, while domestic fulfillment is usually faster for fast-moving stock. Compare the landed cost per order, including inbound freight, storage, pick and pack and outbound delivery, not just the pick fee.
What is usually included in a per-order rate?
Often just pick and pack labour, and sometimes packaging. Storage, inbound handling, outbound freight, returns and custom print are frequently separate. Ask for the full line items before comparing two rates.
Can I get a quote without committing to a warehouse contract?
Yes. Send a SKU list, order profile and destination mix. A provider can quote the model without a signed contract. Treat the first quote as a planning number, then confirm it against a sample month of real orders.
Do providers charge onboarding or setup fees?
Some do, especially for custom packaging, system integration or labelling. Ask for one-time fees separately from recurring fees so they do not disappear into a blended rate.
How do I compare quotes from two providers?
Use the same SKU data, order volume, storage days, destination mix and service level. Compare the five lines side by side, then check minimums, returns and peak-season surcharges. A lower headline rate can still be the more expensive option.
