Before booking freight for magnetic building toys, ask for a dated packing list by SKU and carton configuration. A piece count or product photo cannot tell a forwarder the shipment volume or chargeable weight.
Request one row per SKU and packing version
Ask for the exact SKU, retail unit dimensions and weight, units per inner and master carton, carton dimensions, gross and net weight, carton count and total cubic volume. Mark which values are measured and which are estimates. Keep the revision date next to the values so a later packaging change cannot silently invalidate the booking.
Reconcile the shipment before asking for a rate
Multiply cartons by units per carton and compare the result with the purchase order quantity. Sum carton volumes and gross weights from the same approved pack plan. Separate product, retail packaging, master carton and pallet data. Pallet count and dimensions matter only if pallets will actually ship.
Give the forwarder a controlled request
Send origin, destination, delivery term, ready date, carton count, dimensions, weight, pallet status and handling requirements. Ask which fields are still provisional and when the final shipping marks and verified weights will be available. A regular 3–7 day preparation window after order confirmation does not include international transit.
Use a pre-booking hold point
Compare the approved sample pack, current carton plan and final packing list. If the retail box, units per carton or outer dimensions change, obtain a revised rate and booking before shipment. Do not publish a freight estimate as a firm landed cost until the actual route, charges and destination duties are known.
Working sheet
| Field | Source to request | Release check |
|---|---|---|
| SKU and version | Order and approved pack record | Same configuration |
| Units per carton | Packing plan | Reconciles to order |
| Dimensions and weights | Measured carton | Dated and unit-labelled |
| Carton count and volume | Final packing list | Matches booking |
PO [ ] · SKU and pack version [ ] · units/carton [ ] · carton L×W×H [ ] · gross/net weight [ ] · measured date [ ] · forwarder response [ ].
Use the carton size shipping guide to frame the rate request, then send the packing-data sheet for the selected SKUs.
FAQ
Can I book using product dimensions alone?
No. Freight booking needs the packed carton or pallet measurements and count.
Is a one-carton MOQ the same as one shipping carton size?
No. Confirm the exact SKU pack-out, carton quantity and measurements for the order.