Key takeaways
- A complete specification and an approved sample protect you more than any contract clause.
- Most screws ship under HS heading 7318; check your country’s anti-dumping measures before ordering.
- Book a pre-shipment inspection and ask for lot-specific test reports.
Screws look simple, which is exactly why imports go wrong. A missing detail in the specification can mean a container of screws that drill, but not through your purlins. This is the process we recommend to every new buyer.
1. Write the specification
Standard, size, drill point, material, hardness, coating and salt spray target, washer, head marking, packaging and labelling. If you have a competitor sample, send it; we will measure it and confirm every dimension in writing.
2. Approve samples
Ask for samples from production tooling, not from stock. Test them on your own material. We ship samples within 7 days by courier.
3. Agree MOQ and price basis
Screws are priced by weight or by thousand pieces. MOQ is driven by wire coil size and machine set-up, typically 500 kg to 1 ton per size. Mixing sizes in one container is normal.
4. Check duties and trade measures
Most screws are classified under HS 7318.14 (self-tapping screws) or 7318.12 (other wood screws). Some markets apply anti-dumping duties to certain steel fasteners from China; confirm with your customs broker before you order.
5. Production and inspection
A typical order takes 25–35 days. Request in-process photos and a pre-shipment inspection, either by your own inspector or a third party such as SGS or BV. We provide a material test certificate and test report per lot.
6. Packing and shipping
Agree carton weight (usually 20–25 kg max), pallet type (fumigated wood or plastic), labels and barcodes. Common terms are FOB Shanghai or Ningbo and CIF to your port. A 20 ft container carries about 20–24 tons of screws.
7. Payment
The usual terms are 30 % deposit and 70 % against copy of the bill of lading. Letters of credit at sight are accepted for larger orders.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a first order take?
About 7 days for samples, then 25–35 days of production after sample approval and deposit, plus shipping time.
Can I mix different screws in one container?
Yes. Most buyers mix sizes and types. Each size needs to meet its own MOQ.
