Sourcing Seasonal Ceramics: A Buyer’s Checklist

Start with the selling occasion and destination

Choose the season, destination country and retail channel first. A Christmas dining assortment and a Halloween decoration program may involve different product details, intended uses and packaging. Share your target shipment date, rather than only the date the products should be on display.

Browse Christmas ceramics, Easter and spring ceramics, Halloween ceramics or Harvest ceramics.

Identify individual pieces within a catalogue photo

Our catalogue photos can show several pieces, shapes or sizes together. Send the series name and catalogue image number, and mark the individual pieces you want to discuss. A photo grouping is a visual selection aid; it does not establish a set configuration or the price of a complete assortment.

For example: “Christmas Tableware, catalogue image 01; please quote the marked items individually.” If you want a coordinated set, specify the pieces and quantity of each piece in that set.

State quantity by design, size and colour

A total program quantity does not always give enough information for costing. List the estimated quantity for each design, size and colour. If the plan is still open, ask for the confirmed minimum order quantity and prices at suitable higher volume tiers. Do not assume every item in a catalogue photo has the same minimum order quantity.

Confirm material, finish and intended use

Ask for the material and dimensions of the selected item, rather than inferring them from its appearance. Note the desired colour, surface finish and decorative details. For dining or serving pieces, identify the intended use and request relevant documentation for the destination market. Microwave, dishwasher and food-contact claims need confirmation for the particular item.

Choose a packing basis before comparing prices

Discuss whether you need individual boxes, protective packing within a divided master carton, or a different retail presentation. Clarify label and barcode requirements, carton markings and any required transport testing. Carton quantity, dimensions and gross weight should be confirmed from the selected product and actual packing arrangement.

Where packing is undecided, request separately identified options. Compare quotations on the same packing and product basis.

Send a complete enquiry

• Series, catalogue image number and marked individual items
• Required sizes, colours and quantities per item
• Destination country and intended use
• Packing, barcode and label requirements
• Target shipment date and requested quotation basis
• For lighted pieces: battery and lighting requirements

Topreal Crafts will review the selection and confirm item details and quotation conditions. For illuminated products, use our lighted ceramics specification checklist.