| Product Specification | Paper grade and intended use | Confirm whether the sheets are intended for laminates, furniture panels, packaging, crafts, or another application. Record the grade, surface finish, print pattern, and required downstream process. | Request a written specification before quotation; decorative papers for different processes may require different absorbency, strength, or surface properties. |
| Product Specification | Basis weight and sheet dimensions | State target basis weight in g/m² and sheet length and width, with agreed tolerances. Basis weight can be checked using a method such as ISO 536. | Confirm whether dimensions refer to finished sheets or rolls converted into sheets, and agree how edge trimming and measurement tolerances are handled. |
| Quality Control | Moisture and storage condition | Set a project-specific moisture range and inspect for dampness, brittleness, curl, or blocking. Paper moisture can be measured using a method such as ISO 287. | Discuss storage and shipment protection, especially for long transit routes or humid conditions. Use moisture-resistant wrapping where appropriate. |
| Quality Control | Color and pattern consistency | Compare production samples with an approved reference under agreed lighting. Record color tolerances, repeat length, and acceptable limits for visible print defects. | Approve a signed or otherwise traceable sample before mass production; define the inspection method and defect limits in the purchase specification. |
| Quality Control | Surface and sheet condition | Check for stains, scratches, pinholes, wrinkles, uneven coating, damaged corners, and contamination. Confirm the acceptable defect rate and sampling plan before inspection. | Use a pre-shipment inspection plan suited to order size and risk; do not rely only on photographs of selected sheets. |
| Supplier Assessment | Production capability and traceability | Request production-capacity details, process controls, batch identification, and records linking samples and inspection results to the production lot. | Verify that the quoted supplier can produce the specified sheet format and quantity, and clarify which processes are performed in-house or subcontracted. |
| Commercial Terms | Samples, lead time, and order terms | Agree sample charges, production lead time, minimum order quantity, packaging method, payment milestones, and remedies for nonconforming goods. | Specify the delivery term and named place using the agreed Incoterms® rule and edition; include the production and inspection schedule in the purchase order. |
| Export Preparation | Packaging and shipment protection | Define sheet stacking, interleaving if required, carton or pallet protection, package labels, and outer-pack markings. Confirm package count and net and gross weights. | Match packaging to the transport mode and expected handling. Keep paper dry and protected from crushing, abrasion, and contamination. |
| Export Documentation | Commercial and transport documents | Check the commercial invoice, packing list, transport document, and any certificate of origin or other document required for the transaction. | Confirm document details, consignee information, product description, quantities, and country-of-origin requirements with the freight forwarder and destination importer. |
| Regulatory Review | Classification and destination requirements | Confirm the applicable customs classification, import rules, labeling requirements, and any product-specific declarations for the destination market. | Classification and documentary requirements depend on product details and destination. Verify them with a qualified customs broker or the relevant authorities before shipment. |