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THE VBM KNOWLEDGE CENTRE

A little knowledge.
A clearer next step.

Practical answers to your procurement and shipping questions.

13 answers

How does procurement with VBM work?+

Start with a product, quantity and destination. VBM reviews the brief, identifies potential suppliers and coordinates quotations, samples and production. Once you approve the specification and quote, we coordinate collection and freight through to delivery.

Procurement
How long does product sourcing take?+

Sourcing depends on product complexity, supplier availability and the quality of the brief. Custom products and sampling can take longer. VBM will discuss an indicative schedule after reviewing your requirements; sourcing and manufacturing are separate stages.

Procurement
Can I order samples before production?+

Yes. Request a sample in your enquiry. Sample charges, courier costs and lead times are confirmed before commitment. Approving a sample helps establish a production specification.

Procurement
How are suppliers verified and quality checked?+

Supplier review can include business information, capability checks and previous performance. Inspection scope is agreed for each order. Third-party QC can be coordinated before collection; verification and sampling do not eliminate every risk.

Procurement
What is the difference between FCL and LCL?+

FCL means full container load: a container is allocated to your shipment. LCL means less than container load: your goods share container space with other consignments. The appropriate option depends on volume, handling needs and timing.

Freight
Should I use air or sea freight from China?+

Air freight often suits urgent or lower-volume goods. Sea freight often suits larger volumes and less urgent deliveries. Exact costs and transit estimates depend on the route, cargo, capacity and handling requirements. VBM can compare options in your quote.

Freight
Can you ship from my existing supplier?+

Yes. Choose “I have a supplier” in the quote flow. Share the collection address, supplier contact and any known packing details. Unknown weights and dimensions are fine at enquiry stage; they must be confirmed before a final booking.

Freight
Which shipping and customs documents are needed?+

Requirements depend on the goods, route and destination. A commercial invoice and packing list are commonly needed, with transport and product-specific documentation as applicable. VBM will coordinate a document review. Clearance outcomes and duties cannot be guaranteed in advance.

Customs & documents
How can I track my shipment?+

Use your secure VBM tracking code on the tracking page, or open Shipments in your customer portal. Milestones may be updated manually by VBM or by a connected provider. Estimated arrival dates can change. Demo tracking is explicitly labelled.

Tracking
Do you arrange cargo insurance?+

Ask about cargo insurance when requesting a quote. Availability, coverage, exclusions and premiums must be confirmed for the specific shipment. Carrier liability and cargo insurance are not the same.

Freight
Do you handle bulk and small commercial orders?+

VBM reviews both bulk and small commercial requests. Minimum order quantities, freight economics and supplier capabilities determine suitability. Share your quantity even if it is only an estimate.

Orders
Can you ship outside Ireland and Europe?+

International routes can be reviewed through the VBM network. Share the origin, destination and product details so the team can confirm service availability, documentation and an indicative schedule.

Orders
When will manufacturing and delivery be completed?+

Manufacturing estimates are confirmed with the selected supplier after the specification and approvals are agreed. Freight, customs and last-mile delivery have separate timelines. Your order workspace shows current estimates and the next required action.

Orders

A little clarity. A lot of expertise.

Meet Veebee, your procurement & logistics assistant.

Ask Veebee