Export Packaging Specifications: Quantities, Carton Marks and Packing Lists
An export-packaging brief should connect the garments inside each packing unit to the identifiers and quantities recorded outside it. Define the required assortment, individual packing and carton information early. Do not assume that one carton size, capacity or marking format applies to every garment or destination.
In this guide
Describe the packing hierarchy
| Level | Details to settle |
|---|---|
| Individual garment | Fold, protective packing, labels and accessories |
| Inner assortment | Whether sizes/colours are grouped or mixed |
| Outer carton | Proposed dimensions, quantity and protection |
| Carton identifier | How the box is matched to packing records |
| Shipment record | Style, size/colour and package quantities as agreed |
Keep marks and records consistent
Provide the buyer-required carton wording and ask which shipment or destination requirements need confirmation. Specify where marks appear and how revisions are controlled. Align style names, references and quantities across the packing instruction and agreed shipment records; avoid handwritten substitutions with no traceable update.
- Confirm units: pieces, pairs, sets or other agreed basis.
- State assortment rules for mixed cartons.
- Ask for proposed carton dimensions and weights for the actual order.
- Identify label/barcode data supplied by the buyer.
- Agree how packing changes are reported.
Resolve document requirements for the transaction
TDAP's exporter guidance provides procedural context for export documentation. Ask the supplier and relevant logistics/import parties which records and data apply to this shipment. A packing specification is not a substitute for confirming the actual trade and clearance requirements.
Mistakes to avoid
- Quoting a carton capacity before confirming the actual product and packing.
- Mixing pairs, pieces and sets in the same quantity field.
- Changing an assortment without updating its packing record.
Prepare the next decision
Send an editable packing matrix with style quantities, units and required identifiers. Request the proposed packing arrangement for approval before shipment preparation.
For catalogue context, explore the Apparel collection. Discuss your development requirements through the manufacturing and sampling process.
Sources and further reading
Let’s Discuss Your Next Collection
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