How much should you budget for India supplier samples?

First-time importers consistently underestimate sample costs and the cycle time it takes to land a usable golden sample. Plan it right — or burn cash chasing the wrong supplier for three months.

✓ Round 1 is cheap and broad:1 sample from each of 5–7 shortlisted suppliers
✓ Golden sample is expensive and narrow: only the 2 finalists make full-spec, branded samples
✓ Shipping dominates:India→Canada DHL/FedEx of a small parcel runs $100–$140 USD per supplier

Plan your sample rounds

Number of suppliers in shortlist

Sweet spot: 5–7 suppliers for round 1.

Product category

Include golden sample round (recommended for first-time engagements)

FX rate (USD/CAD)

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