FOB Pricing and MOQ: A Practical Guide for First-Time Fire Extinguisher Importers
A fire extinguisher quotation can look simple — a price per piece — but the number depends on the cylinder, valve, powder, packaging and order quantity. Understanding the cost structure helps you compare suppliers fairly.
What is included in an FOB price
FOB (Free On Board) means the seller delivers the goods on board the vessel at the named port. The price normally includes the product, export packing, inland transport to the port and export clearance. It does not include ocean freight, insurance, import duty or destination charges.
Why MOQ differs by product type
| Product | Typical MOQ | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Portable extinguisher | 500 pcs | Carton and label runs, powder filling batch |
| Trolley extinguisher | 50 pcs | Frame fabrication and packing |
| Empty cylinder | 1,000 pcs per size | Deep-drawing and coating setup |
| Valve | 2,000 pcs | Machining and leak-test batch |
| Hose / nozzle / gauge | 5,000–10,000 pcs | Moulding or assembly setup |
These are reference figures. A mixed order that combines several sizes can sometimes meet the MOQ in total, which is useful for distributors building a catalogue.
How container loading affects cost
A 20GP container loads roughly 3,000–9,000 portable units depending on capacity, while a 40HQ can carry about 2.3 times as many. Trolley units load at 150–350 pieces. If your order is below a full container, a mixed container or LCL shipment may be cheaper, but check the carton dimensions and the forwarder's minimum charge.
Payment and lead time
Common terms are a 30% deposit with the balance against the bill of lading, or a letter of credit for larger orders. Lead time is typically 20–35 days after deposit and artwork approval. Add time for a pre-production sample if the label or thread is new.
How to compare quotations
- Confirm the capacity, powder type and valve material.
- Check whether the price includes the bracket, hose and label.
- Ask for the carton and pallet plan.
- Confirm the port and the quote validity.
- Compare the test documentation, not only the price.
FAQ
What is your MOQ for a mixed order?
A mixed order can combine sizes to reach the MOQ. Send the size split and destination port and we will confirm what can be produced together.
Do you quote CIF or FOB?
We quote FOB by default. CIF can be arranged through a forwarder, but the freight rate changes frequently, so we confirm it case by case.
How long is the quote valid?
Reference prices are indicative and move with steel, powder and freight costs. We confirm the final price when the order specification is fixed.