Questions buyers ask before the first order
The short answers below are the ones that come up in almost every first enquiry. Anything that depends on the grade is marked as such, because a single number for a whole product family is usually wrong.
Ordering and quantity
What is the minimum order? It is set by the run, not by a fixed number. A grade already running on the line can take a smaller quantity than a new blend on a new width. Send the width and weight and we will quote the smallest economical run.
Can I mix grades in one container? Usually yes. Mixed loading is quoted per combination because packing and documentation differ.
Do you supply slit rolls? Yes, slit to your working width, with the slit plan confirmed on the order.
Samples and trials
Do you send free samples? A small swatch or a short roll can be sent; freight is normally paid by the buyer. A trial roll of production width is quoted as a paid batch.
How long is a sample valid for? A sample represents the grade and the specification at the time it was made. If the specification changes after approval, the sample is no longer the reference.
Specification and tolerance
What gsm tolerance can you hold? It depends on the process and the weight. The tolerance is written on the order confirmation, not assumed from a data sheet.
How many splices per roll? Agreed per order and stated on the quotation. A splice limit is one of the cheapest specifications to agree and one of the most common causes of a claim when it is left open.
Documents and compliance
Can you send ISO and test reports? Yes, against the specific grade and standard. Ask for the scope of the certificate as well as the certificate itself.
Is a safety data sheet a certificate? No. It describes handling and hazard information for the material.
Delivery and payment
What Incoterms do you work on? FOB is the usual basis, with CIF and CFR quoted for regular destinations. Other terms are quoted on request.
What is the lead time? Set by line availability and by whether the grade is already running. It is confirmed per order, not published as a general figure.
Question not answered here?
Send it with your application and target specification. We answer technical questions in writing.
Questions
Common questions
Do you have a price list?
No. Roll goods are quoted against gsm, width, fibre blend, quantity and packing, so a list price would be wrong for most enquiries. Send the specification and you get a real number.
Can I visit the factory before ordering?
Yes, by arrangement. Tell us the grades you want to see so the relevant lines are running during the visit.
Do you supply fabric for a medical device?
We supply the material and the documents available for that grade. Approval of the finished device stays with the device manufacturer.
What happens if the delivered gsm is out of tolerance?
The claim is decided against the acceptance criteria in the order confirmation, which is why those criteria are written before production.