Quick Answer: Ask the supplier for a written quotation that separates finished-unit price, CKD/SKD kit price, MOQ, payment terms and container loading quantity, then calculate your landed cost per unit using real freight and duty numbers — never rely on oral figures.
When importers first contact a water heater factory, the price conversation looks simple but hides several layers. This guide explains each layer so you can compare quotes honestly — and avoid comparing apples with oranges.
Finished Unit Price vs CKD Kit Price
A finished unit is a complete water heater ready to sell. A CKD (completely knocked down) kit arrives as components — tank, element, thermostat, shell, valves, fasteners — assembled in your own country. Many markets apply lower import duties to CKD kits, which is why buyers with high tariff exposure ask for both prices. When comparing, remember that CKD adds your local assembly cost, labor, tooling and possibly local certification, so the lower CKD price does not automatically mean lower total cost.
MOQ: The Minimum Order Quantity
The MOQ is the order size at which the quoted price holds. Some suppliers quote a low “entry” price that only applies to full-container orders. Ask not only “what is the MOQ?” but “what does the price look like at 1, 2, 5 and 10 containers?” — the price curve tells you how to consolidate orders with partners or distributors.
Payment Terms: L/C, T/T and Beyond
Buyers routinely ask about L/C (letters of credit) and T/T (telegraphic transfer). L/C reduces risk for both sides but involves bank costs and documents; T/T is faster but requires trust. Payment terms are a negotiation point, not a fixed rule — ask for the supplier’s standard split (for example, a deposit with balance before shipment) and whether repeat customers can extend terms. Record everything in the written offer.
Container Loading Quantity and Landed Cost
The number that ties everything together is how many units fit per container. Freight, customs fees, inland transport and port charges are fixed costs spread over each unit — so a unit’s true cost drops as loading quantity rises. Ask the supplier for dimensioned loading plans (tank sizes determine packing patterns) and calculate your landed cost per unit with your actual freight quote and duty rate. A supplier who provides loading plans and honest weight data is cooperating in your commercial analysis; one who avoids the question is not.
The Written-Quotation Rule
Across all four topics, one rule applies: ask for everything in writing. A professional offer lists product price, CKD price if relevant, MOQ by capacity/model, payment terms, packing specification, loading quantity, and delivery terms (such as FOB or CIF). Confirm each item against your own freight and duty numbers. Any figure not in the written offer is not a commitment.
Local Searches for this Question
Importers in Russia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Africa search for water heater pricing, MOQ, payment terms and landed cost in their local languages. These keywords help buyers find this guide through regional search engines.
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