A color code needs a fabric reference

A number copied from a color card is incomplete without the fabric it belongs to. Keep the SKU, card reference and color code together from the first enquiry. The same number appearing on two cards does not establish that the shades match, that the fibers take color in the same way or that both colors are currently available.

For example, the L001 linen page and LC001 linen-cotton page have separate product identities and color selections. Retain those identities when you compare a collection across materials. Do not send only a list of numbers and expect the supplier to infer which card you used.

Preserve the code as it is printed

If a reference includes leading zeros or a letter, copy the complete code. Keep a photo or version reference for the physical card beside the enquiry. If a code is unreadable, ask the supplier to identify it rather than guessing from the neighboring labels.

On the website, select only the references offered for the chosen SKU. Those references help organize a request; they are not a live inventory promise. Ask for availability and the sample shade to be confirmed before arranging shipment.

Put the quantity on the same line as the shade

An illustrative enquiry could read: L001, color 001, 50 metres; L001, color 002, 30 metres. The total for that hypothetical quality is 80 metres. These are example request quantities, not a Hanzhong price, MOQ or acceptance commitment.

If you add LC001, start separate shade lines for that quality. Do not combine the quantities into one total that hides how much is needed per fabric and color. Also identify whether the numbers describe samples, a trial purchase or estimated bulk requirements.

Separate selection from color approval

Screen images are useful for choosing which references to discuss, but they do not establish final shade approval. Request the relevant physical color reference and explain whether the collection needs a close coordination or a specific approved standard. Keep any remaining difference or substitution question explicit.

If a physical card and a supplied fabric sample appear different, record both references and ask for clarification. Do not overwrite one with the other in your records or assume that a screen photograph resolves the difference. Repeat-order and production-lot arrangements need their own confirmation.

Build a request the sales team can check

  • Fabric SKU and the product-page link.
  • Color-card reference and complete code for each requested shade.
  • Sample form and sample quantity, if needed.
  • Estimated bulk quantity for each color, in a stated unit.
  • Destination and the physical reference needed for final approval.

Use the site's inquiry builder to keep selected qualities together, or send the same line structure in your message. Do not describe an unconfirmed color as available merely because it appears on a card.

Keep the approved references for the next step

Once a selection is confirmed, retain the SKU, shade reference and written terms with the sample. The sample approval guide explains how quality, color and finish decisions relate. This article addresses color-card request organization; it does not establish a dye-lot tolerance or a rule for mixing colors toward a minimum order.