How to source juco bags from a supplier: samples, MOQ and shipping

Buying bags from overseas can feel like a lot of unknowns. It's actually a short, predictable sequence. Here it is for juco, though most of it applies to any bag.

In this guide: Write down what you need (even roughly) · Compare quotes properly · The sample · Minimum order · What moves the price · Production and shipping · The whole thing at a glance · Questions buyers ask us

1. Write down what you need (even roughly)

A good enquiry has five things: the bag style and size, the handle, the finish (natural or laminated inside), your logo, and the quantity. Add your country, and the shipping term if you know it.

Don't know some of it? That's fine. The bag brief builder on our site lets you tick “Not sure, please advise” for anything, then send the whole brief by WhatsApp or email.

2. Compare quotes properly

When two quotes look different, check that they are for the same bag:

• Same size, including the gusset?
• Same fabric and composition? Juco blend ratios vary, so ask.
• Same handle type and length?
• Same print: number of colours, one side or both?
• Same shipping term? FOB and CIF prices aren't comparable without adding freight and insurance. (Our post on FOB, CIF and FCA explains.)

And ask what certifications the production facility holds, and to see them. Ours is certified to GOTS, GRS, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and Jute Mark India, and SMETA/SEDEX 4-Pillar audited. Certificate scope is shared on request.

3. The sample

A sample typically takes 5 to 10 days from approved artwork. When it comes, check it properly: size, fabric, colour in daylight, print, handles, stitching. We've written a full sample checklist. Keep the approved sample; it's the standard for the whole order.

4. Minimum order

MOQ just means the smallest number of bags made per design. With us it's flexible and depends on the bag size, fabric and colour. Dyed colours and special fabrics usually need more, because the fabric is dyed or woven for your order. Plain natural juco with a standard print is the easiest to make in smaller quantities.

5. What moves the price

• Size and fabric used (a bigger bag with a gusset uses more fabric).
• Handles: rope, webbing, padded, leather-look.
• Lamination, lining, zips, pockets.
• Print colours and print area.
• Quantity.

If a price is tight, ask the supplier what to change. Sometimes a few centimetres or one print colour fewer makes the difference.

6. Production and shipping

Bulk production typically takes 25 to 30 days after sample approval. Ask for photos of the first bulk pieces so you can compare them with your sample. We ship worldwide on the shipping terms agreed with each buyer, with the commercial invoice and packing list, and a certificate of origin when your country requires one.

The whole thing at a glance

Enquiry → quotation → artwork proof → sample (5–10 days) → your approval → bulk (25–30 days) → shipping → your port. Add a lab dip at the start if colours are dyed to order.

And if you'd rather see things in person: factory visits are welcome by appointment in Kolkata.

If we had one piece of advice above the rest, it's this: a supplier who tells you a tight timeline is unrealistic, before you've even placed the order, is usually the one worth trusting. The ones who agree to every date you name are the ones who end up missing them.

Questions buyers ask us