Request assembled and packed weights as well as height. Check the route from delivery to storage and whether two people will be needed for handling. Ask the seller to identify the included head, body and accessories before treating prices as comparable.
Compare shipping on the same basis
Ask both sellers to quote delivery to the same postal code and identify charges included in each price. Check the quoted service, carton count and whether a signature or appointment is required. Quote separately for addresses that incur a remote-area or oversized-parcel fee.
Check the retail box and outer carton
Ask for the current retail-box and outer-carton dimensions, gross weight, and a photo of the shipment label layout. Check whether an invoice, promotional insert or brand name will appear inside or outside the carton. Record what the supplier will change and what must remain for carriers or customs.
Agree the single-order workflow
Write down the data needed to route one order, who validates the address, and who can cancel before dispatch. Send a test order with only the necessary customer information. Verify that tracking goes back to the right order and agree where to report exceptions.
Document returns and replacements
Find out who authorizes a return, which address accepts it, and who pays for replacement freight. Ask how damaged or wrong items are documented and which parts can be replaced separately. Keep the merchant's obligations and the supplier's reimbursement terms in separate records.
Catalog comparison examples
These catalog entries are starting points for comparing specifications and requesting a quote. They are not ranked by unperformed product tests. Verify the selected version and delivery terms before ordering.
Comparison method
The guide uses published catalog information and a documented buying checklist. The examples illustrate the questions to ask, without assigning unsupported scores or claiming an in-person test.
