More and more overseas horticulture importers and growers are sourcing agricultural nonwoven from China for its value and flexible specs. But on a first order it is hard to know what to ask and which numbers on a quotation actually matter. This FAQ collects the 8 questions most worth asking before buying — run through them and you will dodge most of the traps.
Q1: How Do You State GSM?
GSM is the single most important spec for agricultural nonwoven — it drives strength, lifespan and price. Make sure the quotation states "grams per square metre" and matches reality; some low quotes quietly understate GSM and it shows when you weigh it. Ask for a GSM test report or a sample and verify yourself: cut 10cm × 10cm, weigh it, multiply by 100 to get GSM.
Q2: Do You Need UV? How to Check?
For long-term open-sun use (orchard barrier, weed control) UV stabilizers are essential — without them fabric powders in a season or two. To verify, ask "how many outdoor years" — a UV-stabilized product will state a figure like 3-5 years — or request an accelerated UV-aging test report. For short-term use (greenhouse, temporary frost cover) you can skip UV to save cost.
Q3: What Is the MOQ?
Agricultural nonwoven is priced per roll / kilogram / square metre. Factory MOQs are usually tonne-based or by the roll (e.g. a few hundred kg per roll). Huayue supports flexible small first orders so importers can test the market, though custom colors and printing carry higher minimums. Confirm whether the MOQ is per color or for the whole order to avoid surprises.
Q4: Can I Get Samples First?
Yes — and strongly recommended. You cannot judge GSM, hand-feel or permeability from a photo. Reputable suppliers provide free small swatches (usually A4 size), with freight collect or covered. Huayue sends samples so you can confirm GSM, color and feel before committing to bulk.
Q5: Can You Customize Color, Width and Length?
Yes. Black is the most common for agricultural use, but custom colors (white, green and more) are available via solution dyeing; width can be matched to your row spacing to minimize seams, and length/roll size tailored. Common widths run from 1m to 3m+; tell your supplier your row and bed dimensions and they can propose the lowest-waste solution.
Q6: What Is the Lead Time?
Standard stock or common specs usually ship in 7-15 days; custom colors, special GSM or large volumes typically take 20-30 days. Order ahead of peak season (e.g. autumn frost-protection stocking in the northern hemisphere). When asking, confirm the time "from order confirmation to dispatch", not just "to start production".
Q7: Biodegradable vs Standard?
Biodegradable grades suit "bury or leave in place" uses (nursery bags, one-off covers) — they decompose in soil over months with nothing to collect. Standard PP is durable and reusable for long-term orchard barrier. If you target eco-strict markets like the EU, a biodegradable option is a plus, but confirm your target market's certification requirements first.
Q8: How to Get the Best Price & Freight?
Agricultural nonwoven is bulky and low-value per unit, so freight (especially sea freight) often dominates total cost. When asking for a quote, confirm whether it is FOB or CIF and whether pricing is per kg or per m²; a full container (FCL) is cheaper per unit than LCL, so it is worth consolidating. State GSM, width, roll length and quantity up front so the supplier can quote accurately without padding.
