Begin at the destination
Before a sourcing conversation moves to volume and price, establish the buyer’s product requirements, intended use and destination. Those details shape the questions that need to be asked at origin.
Agree how quality will be assessed
Document the product grade, condition, packaging and any requested test or inspection arrangements. Agree how differences will be recorded and who is responsible for resolving them.
Plan the handoffs
Harvest, collection, storage and transport involve different people. A shared plan should identify who is responsible at each handover and what information needs to travel with the goods.
Keep records connected
Maintain the link between the supplier, the lot or shipment and the supporting documents. Where traceability is a project requirement, define the records needed before the order is placed.
A general business perspective, not project-specific advice. Requirements should be assessed for your product, market and circumstances.
Talk through your requirements