Combining 1688 and Taobao orders: when consolidation makes sense
A practical warehouse checklist for identifying purchases, inspection, packing and comparing costs.
Plan packing and shipping costsStep 3 of 5
The question behind this checklist
A buyer in r/1688 asked how purchasing fees, inspection, storage and consolidation compare for shipments to France [1]. Those questions informed this checklist; the discussion does not establish prices or routes to Ukraine or Moldova.
Build the inventory before arrival
Record the seller, order number, Chinese tracking number, variant and quantity for each item. Share this list with the warehouse and agree on identification labels. Linking orders to boxes makes it easier to identify arrivals and missing items.
Check before international dispatch
Request photos showing quantities, size labels and visible damage. Confirm whether opening retail packaging is included and functional testing is available. Agree on the deadline, address and cost of a seller return before consolidation. This is an editorial checklist, not a promise of free inspection.
Compare two complete quotes
Compare separate shipments with one combined parcel. Include storage, inspection, repacking, chargeable weight, clearance and onward delivery in both options. Savings from using one box may disappear if the combined parcel is bulky or must wait for a late seller.
Give clear packing instructions
Specify which boxes may be removed, which items should stay separate and which labels must remain. Obtain acceptance for batteries, liquids and fragile items before purchasing. After packing, request the final inventory, photos, weight and dimensions.
Check the destination requirements
Consolidation does not remove the need for accurate descriptions and values. Check the relevant clearance rules and recent changes for Ukraine or Moldova. Keep documents for every purchase even when the combined parcel has one international tracking number.
Prepare an enquiry ↗
