1688 Kitchenware: Why Packing and Volumetric Weight Decide the Cost I work with 1688 Sourcing Agent. Mugs, bowls and baskets are light but bulky, so freight is charged on volumetric weight. • Specify export packing. Default domestic cartons are thin. Agree inner packing (foam, dividers, double-wall cartons) before production. • Get carton dimensions early. How tightly items nest matters more than the scale weight. • Food contact is compliance. Ceramics glaze and heavy metals, food-grade confirmation for plastics and silicone: ask what documentation exists. • Tolerance and stacking. Ceramics and glass vary piece to piece; check sets that must match or stack. The published purchasing service fee is 10% of product value, minimum USD 10 per order; freight, duties and packing are quoted separately, and nothing is purchased before you approve the quote. Guide: 1688 kitchenware wholesale · Landed cost calculator