Delivery terms that prevent wholesale order surprises
Write lead times, delivery charges and handover arrangements clearly before a shop places its request.
Published 11 October 2026
State what the lead time means
A number of days is useful only with shared expectations. Explain the delivery arrangement in the listing’s terms: when processing starts, which area you serve and whether the buyer must be present to receive. Avoid promising a delivery time you have not agreed. The market displays the stated lead time; it is not a live courier estimate or a guarantee of arrival.
Keep delivery charges visible
Use the delivery fee field for the charge shown with the offer. If the amount depends on the address, explain this and use a revised quote when necessary before confirming. Do not rely on a low unit price to hide a significant delivery charge. Buyers compare the complete request. A sample order of twenty-four items at ten currency units plus thirty delivery costs 270 before applicable tax, not 240.
Plan the receiving conversation
Agree a contact person, receiving address and a way to handle a missing or damaged item. Arrange payment and delivery directly with the buyer. After dispatch you can record a reference on the shared request, but that reference is not proof that goods were received. The buyer records receiving on its purchase order. Keep the supplier invoice consistent with the final agreement so merchandise, tax and freight can be reconciled without guessing.
