How an order works, step by step
Importing paper products into the US is not a single transaction. It is a sequence of decisions, and each one carries risk if nobody manages it end to end. Here is what happens between your first inquiry and a delivered container, whether you are importing tissue from China or napkins from Vietnam, and who is responsible for each step.
Inquiry
Tell us your idea or product, volume and destination. We identify the right production options and provide a landed price, including product, freight, duties and delivery.
You describe the need. Offshore prices it landed.
- You describe the product, volume and timeline
- Offshore asks about existing specs, samples or packaging
- Offshore identifies whether this fits an existing supplier or needs a new one
- Offshore outlines next steps and a rough timeline
Specification & Sample
We finalize the technical specification and have reference samples produced for your approval, setting expectations before production begins.
You approve the sample. Offshore manages the factory.
- Written specification drafted from your requirements
- Sample produced and shipped for your review
- You approve, request changes, or request a second sample
- Spec locked once you sign off
Production Partner Selection & Audit
We select the best-qualified production partner for your program and audit the facility before initiating any production.
Offshore selects, audits and stands behind the production partner.
- Factory matched to the product spec and volume
- Capability and capacity confirmed
- Quality systems and prior performance reviewed
- Factory confirmed for the order
Purchase Order
You issue a single purchase order to Offshore Products. We manage the entire overseas and import program, payment terms and production schedule.
You place one order with Offshore. Offshore places it with the factory.
- Quantity, price and packaging confirmed in writing
- Payment terms and schedule set
- Production timeline agreed
- Offshore, not the factory, is your counterpart on the order
Production & Quality Control
We inspect production against your approved specification and reference sample, and you receive the inspection report before the container is booked.
Offshore inspects before it ships, not after it arrives.
- Production tracked against the agreed timeline
- In-process inspection during the production run
- Pre-shipment inspection using AQL sampling
- Corrections made before goods are packed for export
Ocean Freight & Customs
We book vessel space, prepare import documentation and manage customs clearance and final mile delivery, providing regular updates on every container.
Offshore books, clears and tracks. You get status updates.
- Export documentation prepared: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, ISF
- Shipment booked and tracked in transit
- Customs entry filed through a licensed broker
- HTS classification and duties applied at entry
- You get updates on status and any delay
Delivery & Follow-up
We coordinate final mile delivery to your dock, then review product performance with you and plan your next order.
Offshore follows up after delivery, not just before it.
- Product delivered per the agreed shipping terms
- Delivery confirmed against the original order
- Follow-up to confirm product performance
- Next order or spec adjustment planned
Questions before your first order
What are your payment terms?
Payment terms are set per purchase order and vary by product, volume and factory relationship. Most import orders involve a deposit before production and a balance before or against shipment, but the exact split is confirmed when your order is placed. Ask your Offshore contact for terms on your specific product and order size.
How long does an order take from inquiry to delivery?
Timelines depend on the product, whether it is an existing spec or a new development project, and current factory capacity, so Offshore will not quote a general timeline without knowing the specifics. Once your spec is locked and a factory confirmed, we can give you a production and shipping estimate for that order. Raise timeline early in your inquiry so it can be built into your planning.
Will tariffs affect my landed cost?
Tariffs and duties depend on the product's HTS classification, its country of origin and current U.S. trade policy, all of which can change. Offshore's import management service includes HTS classification and customs entry through a licensed broker, and flags applicable duties as part of quoting and ordering. Because trade policy shifts, confirm current rates with Offshore before finalizing a purchase order.
Do I need my own customs broker?
No. Offshore's import management service includes filing your customs entry through a licensed customs broker as part of the process, so you do not need to arrange a separate broker relationship on your own.
Is there a minimum order quantity?
Minimums vary by product, factory and packaging format, so there is no single minimum across all categories. Offshore will confirm what is realistic for your product and target price once your specification is set. Discuss volume early in your inquiry so sourcing can target factories that fit your order size.
Can I get a sample before committing to an order?
Yes. A sample is a standard part of the process, produced and reviewed before any purchase order is placed, and your specification is not locked until you approve it. Sample lead time and cost vary by product and are confirmed with your Offshore contact.
Who is the importer of record on my shipment?
This is set per arrangement and should be confirmed with Offshore for your specific order, since it affects customs liability and documentation. Ask your Offshore contact to confirm importer-of-record responsibility before your purchase order is finalized.
Start with an email or a call
Send what you have: a spec, a case label, a target price, or just the problem you are trying to solve.