The biggest mistake importers make isn't finding a bad supplier — it's not knowing exactly what they want. When you describe your need vaguely, you get a vague price, and often the wrong product. The more precisely you specify the product, the faster and more accurately you'll be quoted. This checklist helps you clarify your need before any request.
Exactly what product? — name & category
Start with a precise name, not a general one. "Packaging machine" isn't enough; "horizontal flow-wrap (HFFS) machine for biscuits" is precise. If you know the technical or English name of the product, include it — your Turkish supplier searches with that name.
Key technical specs
The most important part. Depending on the product, specify:
- For machinery: production capacity (e.g. 200 packs/min), motor power, voltage, dimensions.
- For materials: material type, weight/GSM, thickness, dimensions, quality grade.
- For parts: the part number or the model of the original machine.
Application & target industry
Say where and for what the product will be used. A filling machine for food differs from the same machine for chemicals. The application guides the supplier to the right model and prevents the wrong purchase.
Order volume & quantity
Specify approximate quantity or volume. It directly affects unit price, minimum order quantity (MOQ), and even supplier choice. "One machine" versus "a complete 10-machine line" are two entirely different negotiations.
Standards & certifications
If your product needs a specific standard (e.g. CE, hygiene standards for food equipment, or Iranian customs requirements), say so up front. This prevents clearance problems and rejected goods.
Budget & target price range
You don't need an exact figure, but a range helps the supplier propose a model that fits your budget — instead of the most expensive or cheapest option. It shortens the process and keeps expectations realistic.
Timing & delivery destination
When do you need it, and where must it arrive? Delivery time (and season) affects stock, price, and shipping planning. The final destination is also needed to calculate logistics cost.
What to search for online
To find the right product name, search its English or Turkish name — you'll get more technical, accurate results. Instead of a word-for-word translation, find the common industry term. For example, for a "plastic bag sealer," searching "band sealer" or "continuous sealing machine" surfaces real suppliers. A product photo also helps enormously; one image removes a lot of ambiguity.
Once you've prepared these, half the job is done
If you clarify these seven points, your request becomes professional and precise — and the supplier knows who they're dealing with. But even with a clear need, finding the right supplier in Turkey and negotiating with local leverage isn't simple.
As your sourcing office in Istanbul, Yedi Mavi starts from exactly this checklist: we understand your need precisely, find and vet the supplier, and negotiate price and terms. Just send your request — even if you don't know all the details yet, we'll help you define it.
Have a need? Let's make it precise.
Send your request — it's fine if the details aren't complete, we'll clarify it together.
Submit an RFQ