Keep four quantities separate
Record unit of sale, units in a display pack, units per master carton and minimum order. If sold as a set, identify its contents. Small ambiguities at this stage can become large receiving discrepancies.
Calculate the actual order quantity
For example, an illustrative minimum of 10 master cartons containing 24 retail units each represents 240 units. This is an arithmetic example, not a Yiwu Toys minimum. The actual requirement must come from the supplier and packing configuration.
Calculate volume from confirmed dimensions
For a rectangular carton, multiply length, width and height in meters to obtain cubic meters. Multiply by carton count for nominal carton volume. Freight billing can involve other rules; use the forwarder's confirmed quotation rather than this volume alone.
Compare the same quotation scope
Line up currency, version, packaging, quantity and trade term before comparing unit prices. Keep sample, printing, tooling, inspection and freight charges separate where applicable. This gives a better basis for negotiation than unrelated headline prices.